Getting a U.S. passport involves several steps, and one of the most important is having a passport photo that meets all official requirements. If your photo doesn’t follow the rules, your application can be delayed or even rejected. In Chicago, there are many trusted places that provide passport photos that meet these standards, making the process easier and faster.
Whether it’s your first passport, a renewal, or a replacement for a lost or stolen one, it’s important to know where to get a photo that will be accepted the first time.
Here, we’ll show you the best places in Chicago for passport photos, from professional services to popular pharmacies, all ensuring your photo meets U.S. Department of State requirements.
Understanding U.S. Passport Photo Requirements
Before heading out to get your passport photo, it’s important to understand the official requirements:
- Size: The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches (51 mm x 51 mm).
- Head Position: Your head should measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.
- Background: A plain white or off-white background is mandatory.
- Expression: A neutral expression with both eyes open is required. No smiling.
- Clothing: Avoid uniforms, camouflage, or clothing that blends into the background. Regular attire is best.
- Glasses: Not allowed unless for medical reasons, and in that case, a signed statement from a medical professional is required.
- Headwear: Only permitted for religious or medical reasons, and it must not cover your face.
Failing to meet even one of these requirements can lead to delays, so it’s always better to go to a professional service that understands these rules.
Top Locations in Chicago for Passport Photos
Here are some of the best and most reliable options in Chicago where you can get a passport photo that meets every requirement:
1. Get My Passports
- Location: 432 N Clark St, #203, Chicago, IL 60654
- Services: Offers comprehensive passport and visa services, including compliant passport photos.
- Why Choose Them: Their staff is trained to ensure that every photo meets U.S. passport standards. They are also well-known for their fast, reliable, and hassle-free service. If you need your passport quickly, Get My Passports is the go-to option in Chicago.
2. Walgreens
- Multiple Locations: Walgreens stores such as 79 W Monroe St and 151 N State St.
- Services: Offers passport photo services with a fast turnaround.
- Why Choose Them: Walgreens has convenient locations and extended hours, including evenings, which makes it easy to fit into your schedule.
3. CVS Pharmacy
- Multiple Locations: Numerous CVS stores across the city.
- Services: Offers passport photo services and usually provides the photos immediately in-store.
- Why Choose Them: Known for consistent quality and adherence to passport photo standards, CVS is a reliable option for busy Chicago residents.
4. FedEx Office
- Multiple Locations: Several FedEx Office locations throughout Chicago.
- Services: Provides professional passport photos with options for digital copies.
- Why Choose Them: Ideal if you need digital versions for online submissions or multiple copies for family members traveling together.
5. The UPS Store
- Multiple Locations: Various UPS Store locations across Chicago.
- Services: Offers passport photo services and additional mailing or shipping services.
- Why Choose Them: Perfect if you are combining passport photo services with other mailing or document services.
6. A A Passport & Visa Photo
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Services: Specializes in passport and visa photos for over 195 countries.
- Why Choose Them: Their expertise in international requirements ensures compliance for U.S. passports as well as visas for various destinations.
Tips for a Successful Passport Photo
Even when you go to a professional service, keeping a few simple things in mind will help make sure your passport photo is accepted the first time.
- Dress properly: Wear regular clothes in solid colors. Avoid uniforms, camouflage, or clothing that blends into the background. Simple outfits work best.
- Neutral expression: Keep your mouth closed and eyes open. Don’t smile or frown. A calm, natural expression meets the official rules.
- Good lighting: Make sure your face is evenly lit with no shadows. Shadows can hide your features and may cause the photo to be rejected.
- Avoid accessories: Take off glasses, hats, or head coverings unless needed for religious or medical reasons. Make sure your face is fully visible.
- Check the background: Make sure the background is plain white or off-white, with no patterns, objects, or textures. A simple background keeps the focus on your face.
Following these tips, even at a professional service like Get My Passports, makes it much easier to get your photo approved the first time.
Processing Times and Costs
- Processing time: Most places in Chicago can take and print your passport photo on the same day. Services like Get My Passports also offer faster passport and visa processing if you need your documents quickly.
- Cost: Passport photos usually cost between $10 and $20, depending on how many copies you need or if you want digital versions. Some providers may charge a bit more for same-day service or extra copies.
Planning ahead and choosing a trusted provider helps make the process smooth, saves time, and avoids problems with your passport application.
Final Thoughts
A correct passport photo is very important for a smooth passport application. Choosing a trusted provider ensures your photo meets all U.S. Department of State rules and avoids delays.
In Chicago, Get My Passports is a reliable choice for professional passport and visa services, including photos that meet every requirement. Other good options include Walgreens, CVS, FedEx, and The UPS Store.
Make the process easier by using a professional service, checking the photo requirements carefully, and making sure your photos are ready the first time. Your trip abroad starts with a perfect passport photo, and Chicago has plenty of places to help you get it.