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How to Print a Passport Photo at Walgreens: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want a convenient and budget-friendly option for your passport photo? Walgreens is a solid choice. You can print compliant passport photos at Walgreens by using their online photo service, their in-store photo kiosks, or by having a Walgreens employee take the photo for you. Each method offers slightly different levels of control and convenience, so understanding the process beforehand is key to getting a photo that meets all the official requirements.

Choosing Your Method: Online, Kiosk, or In-Store

Before heading out, consider which approach best suits your needs. Do you already have a digital photo you’re happy with? Then the online service or kiosk might be your best bet. Prefer a professional touch? Then the in-store service is the way to go.

Printing Online: Convenience at Your Fingertips

This method offers the most flexibility. Here’s how it works:

Take Your Photo: Ensure your photo meets all passport requirements (more on that later!). Use a high-quality camera or smartphone and have someone else take the picture. A plain white background is crucial.
Upload to Walgreens.com: Go to the Walgreens Photo website (photo.walgreens.com) and upload your photo. Look for the “Passport Photos” option.
Crop and Adjust: The website will likely provide tools to crop and adjust your photo to the correct dimensions. Double-check that your head size and positioning are accurate according to passport guidelines.
Select a 4×6 Print: Walgreens will typically print your passport photo on a standard 4×6 inch print. This will usually give you two passport photos on the same print.
Choose Delivery or In-Store Pickup: You can either have the print delivered to your home or pick it up at your local Walgreens. In-store pickup is usually much faster (often within an hour).
Pay and Pick Up (if applicable): Complete your order and pay online. If you chose in-store pickup, head to the designated photo counter when you receive the notification that your order is ready.

Using the In-Store Photo Kiosk: A Quick Solution

The photo kiosks at Walgreens are a popular option for on-the-spot passport photos.

Find a Kiosk: Locate a photo kiosk in your local Walgreens. Most stores have them near the photo department.
Upload Your Photo: You can upload your photo from a USB drive, your smartphone (using a cable or Bluetooth if supported), or even some memory cards.
Select “Passport Photos”: Navigate the kiosk menu and choose the “Passport Photos” option.
Crop and Adjust: Use the kiosk’s touchscreen to crop and adjust your photo. Again, pay close attention to head size and positioning.
Print Your Photo: Once you’re satisfied with the adjustments, select “Print.” The kiosk will print a 4×6 print with your passport photos.
Pay and Collect: Pay for your print at the kiosk and collect your passport photos.

Getting Your Photo Taken In-Store: The Professional Route

If you’re unsure about taking your own photo or want a guarantee of compliance, this is your best bet.

Visit the Photo Department: Go to the photo department at your local Walgreens and ask for a passport photo.
Get Your Photo Taken: A Walgreens employee will take your photo using a digital camera. They should be familiar with passport photo requirements.
Review and Approve: You’ll likely be able to review the photo on a screen before it’s printed.
Receive Your Prints: The employee will print your passport photos on a 4×6 print.
Pay and Collect: Pay for your photos at the register.

Key Considerations for Passport Photo Compliance

Regardless of the method you choose, these guidelines are essential to ensure your passport photo is accepted:

Size: The photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
Head Size: The head height (measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, including hair) must 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 and looking directly at the camera.
Clothing: Wear normal, everyday clothing. Uniforms or clothing that resembles a uniform are not allowed.
Glasses: Glasses are generally not allowed, unless you have a medical reason and can provide a signed statement from a medical professional.
Hats and Head Coverings: Hats and head coverings are not allowed unless worn daily for religious purposes. You must provide a signed statement verifying this. Your full face must be visible.
Resolution: The photo must be clear, sharp, and in focus. No blurry or pixelated images.
Lighting: The photo must be evenly lit, with no shadows or glare.
No Retouching: The photo must not be digitally altered or retouched in any way.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of printing passport photos at Walgreens:

1. How much does it cost to print a passport photo at Walgreens?

The cost varies slightly depending on whether you use the online service, the kiosk, or have a Walgreens employee take your photo. Generally, expect to pay around $15-$20 for a set of two passport photos taken in-store. Printing your own uploaded photo via the kiosk or online is typically cheaper, around $0.39 for a 4×6 print.

2. Can I use my phone to take a passport photo and print it at Walgreens?

Yes, absolutely. Just ensure your phone’s camera is high-quality and that you follow all the passport photo requirements. Upload the photo to the Walgreens website or to a photo kiosk using a USB cable or Bluetooth (if supported).

3. What if my passport photo is rejected?

If your passport photo is rejected, review the rejection reason carefully. Common reasons include incorrect size, poor lighting, or a non-compliant background. Correct the issue and try again. If you had a Walgreens employee take your photo, they may offer a free retake if the rejection was due to their error.

4. Can I wear makeup in my passport photo?

Yes, you can wear makeup, but it should be natural-looking. Avoid excessive makeup that significantly alters your appearance.

5. How long does it take to get a passport photo printed at Walgreens?

If you use the online service and choose in-store pickup, it usually takes about an hour. Printing at the kiosk is almost immediate. Getting your photo taken in-store also only takes a few minutes.

6. Can I print more than two passport photos on a 4×6 print at Walgreens?

Technically, yes. However, for passport purposes, you typically only need two identical photos. Printing more than two on a 4×6 could potentially compromise the size and quality required for passport acceptance.

7. Does Walgreens guarantee that my passport photo will be accepted?

While Walgreens employees are trained to take compliant photos, they cannot guarantee acceptance. Ultimately, the final decision rests with the passport agency. However, if Walgreens made an error, they are usually willing to retake the photo for free.

8. What is the best way to ensure my passport photo meets the requirements?

Carefully review the U.S. Department of State’s passport photo guidelines. Use a passport photo app to help you size and crop your photo correctly. Have someone else take your photo to ensure you’re looking directly at the camera. If in doubt, opt for the in-store service at Walgreens.

9. Can I smile in my passport photo?

No, you must have a neutral expression. Smiling can distort your facial features and make it difficult to identify you.

10. Are there any passport photo apps that work well with Walgreens?

Yes, many passport photo apps are available for both iOS and Android. Some popular options include Passport Photo Booth, ID Photo, and Passport ID Photo Maker. These apps often allow you to format your photo for printing on a 4×6 at Walgreens.

11. What should I do if the Walgreens kiosk is out of paper or malfunctioning?

Inform a Walgreens employee immediately. They can assist you with replenishing the paper or troubleshooting the kiosk. If the kiosk is beyond repair, they can help you print your photo using another method or direct you to another Walgreens location.

12. Can I get a digital copy of my passport photo from Walgreens?

If you had your photo taken in-store, ask the employee if they can provide you with a digital copy. This may not always be possible, but it’s worth asking. If you upload your own photo, you naturally already have a digital copy.

By following these guidelines and understanding the different options available, you can confidently print a compliant passport photo at Walgreens and avoid any unnecessary delays in your passport application process. Good luck with your travels!