Applying for a new passport or getting your passport renewed requires significant paperwork and having a passport photo that meets the specific requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. Because of the importance of the passport photo, you should have it taken by a professional. Regardless of the city in which you live, you have many choices of places to have the photo taken.

Drugstore

If you visit a drugstore that has a photo lab, it's likely that you will be able to have your passport photo taken. Visit a drugstore, such as CVS or Walgreens, and confirm that the store has a photo lab. Ask an employee if passport photos are available and arrange to have one taken. Appointments aren't necessary and most drugstores will have your passport photo ready quickly.

Big Box Store

Several big box stores have photo departments, and passport photo services are typically available. Large stores such as Walmart and Sam's Club provide passport photos while you wait, which is handy if you have other shopping to do. Because big box stores shoot so many passport photos, a benefit to visiting this type of store for your photo is that the associate will be familiar with the regulations and ensure the photo meets them.

Post Office

Many people visit the post office on a regular basis, which makes it an ideal spot to have your passport photo taken. Not all United States Postal Service outlets provide this service, so call or visit your nearest location for confirmation. Most post offices distribute passport applications, so it's efficient to have your photo taken when you go to pick up the application.

Courier Stores

A significant number of courier stores, including The UPS Store and FedEx, provide passport photo services while you wait. Although you might not have a reason to visit a courier store on a regular basis, it can be convenient to have your photo taken at one of these stores because the lineups at drugstores and big box stores are often lengthy.

Taking it Yourself

If you want to obtain a passport photo and save money in the process, you can take it at home. Passport photos are not overly expensive; big box stores such as Walmart are typically the cheapest, but most stores charge around the same price for passport photos. If you take the photo yourself, the photo must have a clear, light background, and the person you get to take the photo must be more than 4 feet away from you and aimed straight at your face. The U.S. Department of State sets specific criteria for taking your own photos and recommends against it.

About the Author

Toronto-based journalist William McCoy has been writing since 1997, specializing in topics such as sports, nutrition and health. He serves as the Studio's sports and recreation section expert. McCoy is a journalism graduate of Ryerson University.

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