Online passport renewals are simpler than ever, but the State Department’s strict photo rules — especially what you wear — still catch many applicants off guard.
When the U.S. State Department rolled out its fully online passport renewal system in mid-2024, it was a welcome change for travelers used to paperwork, in-person appointments, and long processing times. For most people, renewing a passport online really is faster and easier than the old method. But while the process itself has been modernized, the rules around passport photos — including what you’re allowed to wear — remain just as strict as ever.
The State Department has some hard and fast rules about what your passport photo can and cannot look like. We’ve gone over some of them in the past, like the difficulty of taking the photo at home and why you’re not allowed to smile in your passport photo.
What you wear is important
Another thing that’s important? What you wear in your passport photo.
Most people already know that you’re not allowed to wear glasses in your passport photo (not even if you wear glasses all the time in real life). And most know you can’t wear a hat, either (although a religious head covering, such as a hijab, Sikh turban, or yarmulke, is allowed — but you have to include a signed statement that your photo depicts your daily religious attire. A headpiece worn for medical purposes is also OK if you include a signed doctor’s note stating you’re wearing it for medical reasons). However, what you wear on your body also counts.
No uniforms
You’re supposed to wear everyday clothing in your passport photo, and that includes no uniforms or clothing that resembles a uniform. So that means, besides an actual uniform (or civilian clothing that looks like one), no camouflage — and not even military green shirts.
Avoid wearing patterns
Small patterns on your shirt are fine. Large ones are not. It’s best to avoid stripes, polka dots, or other repeating patterns, busy floral or geometric designs, large logos or text, or reflective materials or sequins.
Avoid light colors
Your passport background should be white or off-white. If you are wearing a light color, such as white, off-white, or very light pastels, the color (or lack of color) may not show, and you’ll look like a floating head.
Avoid bright colors
The State Department has no issues with neon or other bright colors, but they can cause color distortion in the digital process, so it’s probably best to avoid them.
In conclusion
Although it’s a whole lot easier to renew your passport nowadays, the requirements for what you wear for your passport photo remain as stringent as ever.
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