For a U.S. passport application or renewal, you only need one color photo that meets strict government requirements. This applies to both first-time applicants and those renewing by mail or online. The photo must be 2x2 inches in size, taken within the last 6 months, and feature a clear, neutral expression against a white or off-white background. While some countries require two photos, U.S. guidelines explicitly state one is sufficient, though bringing an extra photo as a backup is often recommended by travelers.

Key findings from the search results:

• One photo required for U.S. passport applications (new, renewal, or both book and card) ^[1][4][7]
• Two photos required for Jamaican passports and some other countries ^[9]
• Digital submissions must meet the same specifications as printed photos ^[8]
• Extra photos are optional but suggested for convenience or emergencies ^[2]

Passport Photo Requirements for U.S. Applications

Number of Photos Needed for U.S. Passports

The U.S. Department of State requires only one photo for all passport services, including new applications, renewals, and combined passport book/card requests. This policy is consistent across in-person, mail, and online submissions. The official guidelines emphasize quality over quantity, with strict specifications to ensure the photo is usable for identification purposes.

• The single photo requirement applies to:
• First-time applicants using Form DS-11 ^[1]
• Renewals by mail (Form DS-82) ^[4]
• Online renewals with digital photo uploads ^[8]
• Combined passport book and card applications ^[2]
• Exceptions: No U.S. passport service currently requires more than one photo, though some users recommend bringing a spare to Post Offices or acceptance facilities ^[2]
• International differences: Jamaica and other countries may require two identical photos, but this does not apply to U.S. passports ^[9]

The one-photo rule simplifies the process, but applicants must ensure the photo meets all technical standards. Rejection due to non-compliant photos is a common cause of delays, so using professional services or the State Department’s photo tool is advised ^[7].

Photo Specifications and Common Mistakes

The U.S. passport photo must adhere to precise technical and compositional standards. Failure to meet these can result in rejection, even if only one photo is submitted. The most critical requirements include:

• Size and composition:
• 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) with the head measuring 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown ^[1][10]
• Recent photo: Taken within the last 6 months to reflect current appearance ^[1][7]
• Background: Plain white or off-white with no shadows or patterns ^[1][10]
• Appearance and pose:
• Neutral expression, both eyes open, mouth closed (slight smiles allowed but no teeth showing) ^[1][7]
• No glasses unless medically necessary (no glare or tinted lenses) ^[1][10]
• No headwear except for religious or medical reasons ^[1]
• Everyday clothing (no uniforms or camouflage) ^[7]
• Digital submission rules:
• Minimum 600x600 pixels for online uploads ^[8]
• JPEG format only, with no compression artifacts ^[8]
• No digital alterations (e.g., filters, retouching) ^[1]

Common reasons for photo rejection include:

• Incorrect background color (e.g., gray or patterned) ^[10]
• Shadows on the face or background ^[7]
• Over- or underexposed lighting ^[10]
• Non-neutral expressions (e.g., frowning, exaggerated smiling) ^[1]
• Glasses with glare or tinted lenses ^[1]

Applicants can avoid these issues by using State Department-approved photo services at Post Offices, pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens), or online tools like PhotoAiD, which guarantee compliance ^[7][3].