Does Walmart Do Passport Photos? Your Comprehensive Guide

Yes, Walmart does provide passport photo services at most of its stores with photo centers. This makes it a convenient option for many people needing passport photos due to Walmart’s widespread presence and generally affordable pricing. Let’s dive into the details of Walmart’s passport photo service, its costs, requirements, and other essential information you’ll need to know.

Walmart Passport Photo Service: A Deep Dive

Walmart’s photo centers aim to offer a streamlined and accessible service for obtaining passport photos. But before you rush to your nearest store, let’s unravel the intricacies of what you can expect.

Accessibility and Convenience

With thousands of locations across the United States, finding a Walmart that offers passport photos is generally quite easy. This geographical reach is one of its major advantages over specialized photography studios that might be less common in certain areas. However, it’s always a good idea to call your local Walmart ahead of time to confirm that their photo center is operational and offering passport photo services.

The Process: Step-by-Step

The typical process at Walmart is straightforward:

1. Locate the Photo Center: Head to the photo center within the store. Typically, it’s located near the electronics or customer service area.
2. Inform the Associate: Let the associate know you need passport photos. They will guide you through the process.
3. Photo Session: The associate will take your photo using a digital camera. They’ll usually take a few shots to ensure they capture one that meets the strict passport photo requirements.
4. Review and Approval: You’ll be given the opportunity to review the photos and select the one you prefer.
5. Printing: The photo is printed on a standard 4×6 inch photo sheet with two identical passport photos.
6. Payment: You pay for the service at the photo center’s checkout.

Cost Considerations

The cost of passport photos at Walmart is generally quite competitive. It usually hovers around $7.44, making it one of the more affordable options available. However, prices may slightly vary depending on your location. This price typically includes two identical passport photos. Be sure to inquire about the exact price at your local Walmart before proceeding.

Compliance with Regulations

Walmart associates are generally trained to take photos that meet the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. This includes aspects like:

• Size: The photos must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
• Head Size: The head size, measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, should be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm and 35 mm).
• Background: The background must be plain white or off-white.
• Expression: You must have a neutral expression with both eyes open.
• Attire: You should not wear eyeglasses (unless medically required and accompanied by a signed statement), hats, or other items that obscure your face.
• Lighting: The lighting should be even and without shadows on the face or in the background.

While associates are trained, it’s always wise to double-check that the photo adheres to all requirements before submitting it with your passport application. You are ultimately responsible for submitting compliant photos.

Potential Drawbacks

While Walmart offers a convenient option, there are a few potential drawbacks:

• Quality Consistency: The quality of the photos can vary depending on the associate taking the photo. Some might be more experienced than others.
• Wait Times: Depending on the store and time of day, there might be a wait to use the photo center.
• Limited Expertise: Walmart associates are not professional photographers. They are trained to take passport photos, but they might not have the same level of expertise as a professional photographer specializing in portraits.
• Store availability: Not all Walmart stores offer passport photo service. Contacting the specific store location you are interested in is always recommended.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

To further clarify any lingering questions, here are some frequently asked questions about Walmart’s passport photo service:

1. Can I take my own passport photo and have Walmart print it?

Unfortunately, Walmart typically does not print passport photos that you bring in. Their service is designed around taking the photo at the photo center itself. If you’ve taken your own photo, you might want to explore online passport photo services that allow you to upload your picture and have it printed to the correct specifications or even printed at other photo printing services such as Walgreens or CVS.

2. How long does it take to get passport photos at Walmart?

The process usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on how busy the photo center is and how quickly the associate can take the photos and print them.

3. Does Walmart offer digital passport photos for online applications?

Currently, Walmart primarily provides printed passport photos. It is essential to verify whether the specific application method requires digital submission versus physical photographs. In such cases, you may need to explore alternative passport photo services that provide digital copies.

4. What if my passport photo is rejected?

If your passport photo is rejected, carefully review the rejection reason provided by the passport agency. Then, return to Walmart with the rejection notice and explain the issue. They may be able to retake the photo for you. However, keep in mind their policy on refunds or re-shoots might vary, so it’s best to inquire about this beforehand.

5. Can I wear jewelry in my passport photo at Walmart?

You can generally wear jewelry as long as it doesn’t obscure your face. Avoid large, distracting pieces that might cast shadows or interfere with the visibility of your facial features.

6. Can I wear makeup in my passport photo at Walmart?

Yes, you can wear makeup, but keep it natural and avoid anything too heavy or dramatic. The goal is to look like your everyday self.

7. Does Walmart take passport photos for babies and infants?

Yes, Walmart can take passport photos for babies and infants. However, it may require some patience and creativity from the associate and the parent, as ensuring the baby is looking straight at the camera with a neutral expression can be challenging. A white blanket to lay the baby on may be required.

8. Can I get my passport photo retouched at Walmart?

No, Walmart does not offer photo retouching services for passport photos. Passport photos must be an accurate representation of your current appearance.

9. Does Walmart offer passport renewal services?

No, Walmart only provides the passport photos. You will need to apply for passport renewal through the U.S. Department of State following their specified procedures, including completing the necessary forms and submitting the required documents.

10. What are Walmart’s hours for passport photo services?

The hours for passport photo services typically align with the photo center’s operating hours, which may vary from store to store. It’s best to call your local Walmart to confirm their specific hours. Keep in mind that photo center may not be open 24 hours even if the retail portion of the store is.

11. Can I get visa photos at Walmart?

While Walmart primarily offers passport photos, they might be able to take photos that meet the requirements for certain visas. However, visa photo requirements can vary significantly from country to country. It’s crucial to provide the associate with the specific dimensions and requirements for your visa photo to ensure they can accommodate your request.

12. What should I do if the Walmart photo center is closed?

If the Walmart photo center is closed, consider alternative options such as professional photography studios, other retail stores with photo services (like CVS or Walgreens), or online passport photo services. Make sure to research and choose an option that can reliably provide photos that meet the official passport photo requirements.