CVS offers passport photos at most locations for a flat fee, printed same-day on the standard 2×2 inch format

You can walk into nearly any CVS pharmacy and request a passport photo. The staff will take your photo using their in-store equipment, print it on the spot, and hand you the finished prints — usually within 15 to 30 minutes. CVS charges a single flat rate per photo session, not per print, so you receive multiple copies of the same image.

The photo meets U.S. State Department requirements: plain white or off-white background, your face centered and taking up 50 percent of the frame, neutral expression, eyes open and looking directly at the camera, and no glasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons). CVS staff are trained to position you correctly and will ask you to adjust if needed before they take the shot.

Key Takeaways

  • CVS prints passport photos same-day at most locations for a single flat fee that covers multiple prints of the same image.
  • You do not need an appointment — walk-in service is available during pharmacy hours, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
  • The photo must meet State Department standards: plain background, centered face, neutral expression, and no glasses or head coverings.
  • Bring a valid ID to the photo counter, as CVS staff will verify your identity before printing.
  • If your photo is rejected by the passport office, CVS will retake it at no additional charge within a set timeframe.

What to bring and what the process costs

Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID, or military ID — so the CVS photo counter can verify your identity. You do not need to bring anything else. The fee for a passport photo session at CVS is typically between $10 and $15, though the exact amount varies by location and may change over time. Call your local CVS pharmacy to confirm the current price before you go.

When you arrive, walk to the photo counter inside the pharmacy. Tell the staff member you need a passport photo. They will ask you to stand in front of a white backdrop, position your face in the frame, and take the photo. The entire process takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Once approved, the prints are usually ready within 15 to 30 minutes, though some locations can print them faster.

How many prints you receive and what to do with extras

CVS typically prints four copies of your passport photo in a single session. You need only one 2×2 inch photo to submit with your passport process, but having extras is useful — you may need them for visa applications, background checks, or other documents later. Keep the extras in a safe place or ask CVS to store them if you plan to order more prints within a few months.

If you need additional prints of the same photo later, you can return to CVS with your original order receipt or ask the staff to look up your photo in their system. Reprinting existing photos usually costs less than a new session, though policies vary by location.

What happens if your photo is rejected

If the passport office rejects your photo and returns it with a reason — such as the background being too dark, your face being too small, or your eyes being closed — you can return to CVS and request a free retake. Most CVS locations honor a retake may provide within 30 to 60 days of the original photo session. Bring the rejection letter or note from the passport office so the staff understands what needs to change.

The retake process is the same as the original: you stand in front of the backdrop, the staff adjusts your position or lighting as needed, and new prints are made. There is no additional charge for a retake within the may provide period.

Walk-in availability and wait times

CVS photo services operate during pharmacy hours, which are typically 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends, though hours vary by location. You do not need an appointment — the photo counter accepts walk-ins. However, wait times depend on how busy the pharmacy is. Early morning or mid-afternoon visits tend to be faster than lunch hours or evenings.

If you want to avoid a wait, call your local CVS pharmacy ahead of time and ask when the photo counter is least busy. Some locations allow you to schedule a photo appointment online through their website or app, though this is not available at all stores.

Alternatives if your local CVS does not offer photos

Not every CVS location has a photo counter — smaller stores or those in rural areas may not offer this service. If your nearest CVS does not take passport photos, you have other options. Walgreens, Walmart, and Target photo departments all offer passport photos at similar prices and with the same turnaround time. You can also visit a post office, which has passport photo services at most locations, or a professional photography studio if you prefer a higher-quality image.

Before traveling to another location, call ahead to confirm they offer passport photos and ask about their current fee and hours. Some locations require appointments during busy seasons.

Digital copies and photo requirements you should know

CVS provides printed photos, not digital files. If you need a digital copy for online passport applications or other purposes, ask the staff whether they can email or text you a digital version. Some locations offer this service at no extra cost, while others may charge a small fee or decline to provide it. Alternatively, you can scan or photograph the printed copy yourself using a smartphone or scanner.

Remember that passport photos have strict requirements: the image cannot be edited, filtered, or altered in any way. The background must be plain white or off-white, not blurred or patterned. Your face must be clearly visible, well-lit, and centered. Avoid wearing heavy makeup, tinted glasses, or anything that obscures your features. CVS staff will guide you through these rules before taking the photo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear glasses in a passport photo at CVS?

No, unless you wear them for a medical reason and can provide documentation. Glasses create glare and reflections that can obscure your eyes, which violates passport photo standards. If you wear glasses for vision correction, remove them for the photo. If you wear them for a medical condition, bring a note from your doctor and CVS will note it on your order.

What if I do not like how I look in the photo?

You can request a retake before you pay. The CVS staff will show you the image on screen and ask if you want to proceed. If you say no, they will take another photo at no charge. Once you pay and leave, retakes are covered only if the passport office rejects the photo for technical reasons, not for appearance.

How long do passport photos stay valid?

There is no expiration date on the photo itself. However, your passport is valid for 10 years (or 5 years if you are under 16), so your photo must still look reasonably like you when you renew. If you look significantly different — different hair color, major weight change, facial hair — you may need a new photo for your next passport.

Can I get a passport photo if I am wearing a head covering for religious reasons?

Yes. Head coverings for religious purposes are permitted in passport photos as long as your face is fully visible from the forehead to the chin and from ear to ear. The background behind your face must still be plain white or off-white. Tell the CVS staff about your head covering before the photo is taken so they can position you correctly.

What if I need the photo urgently?

CVS prints most passport photos within 15 to 30 minutes, so you can often walk out with prints the same day you arrive. If you need them faster, ask the staff at the photo counter whether they can prioritize your order. Some locations can print within 10 minutes during slow periods.