Size

• The United States government requires that a passport photo be 2-inches-by-2-inches. In addition, the size of the head should be 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches from the chin to the top of the head. These requirements are unique to the United States. To apply for a passport from a different country, review its guidelines carefully.
  
  

Color and Appearance

• The passport photo must be in full color and printed on photo-quality paper. Use a white or off-white background. Open both eyes and wear a neutral expression -- not smiling or frowning. Do not wear anything that might make it difficult to be recognized, such as a hat or dark glasses. Glasses worn on a daily basis are acceptable, but should not have a glare in the photo. Head coverings worn daily for religious reasons are acceptable, but they must not cover the hairline or place shadows on the face. Additionally, do not wear a uniform unless it is for religious reasons.
  
  

Children

• Photos of children should depict only the child. The child should face the camera with his eyes open. To photograph babies, lay a baby down on a white sheet and take the picture or place the child in a car seat that is covered in a white sheet.
  
  

What is Not Acceptable

• The US government has a list of photo types that are not acceptable. Self-portraits, photos taken on cell phones, photos taken in low-resolution vending machines and photos from other IDs (such as a school ID or a driver's license) are not acceptable. Snapshots, magazine photos or photos that have been digitally altered are also not acceptable for passports.
  
  

When to Take a New Passport Picture

• For adults, passports are valid for 10 years and drastic changes of appearance may occur. The US government expects your passport photo to be updated if you have changed your gender, undergone significant facial surgery or gained or lost a large amount of weight. You are always allowed to update your passport if you feel it is necessary to keep the representation accurate.