Walgreens offers passport photos at most store locations for a flat fee

You can walk into nearly any Walgreens store and have a passport photo taken on the spot. The photo is printed the same day, usually within a few minutes. Walgreens charges a set price per photo — typically around $15 for two 2x2-inch prints, though the exact cost varies by location and may change over time. You do not need an appointment at most stores, though calling ahead during busy hours can save you a wait.

The photo meets U.S. State Department requirements for passport applications: neutral background, head-on pose, eyes open and looking at the camera, and no filters or heavy makeup. Walgreens staff are trained to take photos that comply with these rules, so you should not have to worry about rejection when you submit your process.

Key Takeaways

  • Walgreens passport photos cost around $15 for two prints and are ready the same day without an appointment at most locations.
  • The photo meets State Department requirements for passport applications, including neutral background and head-on positioning.
  • You should bring a valid ID to the photo counter, though Walgreens does not always require it for passport photos.
  • If you need digital copies or reprints, ask the photo associate — some stores can email or print additional copies for a small fee.
  • A few Walgreens locations do not have photo services; calling your store ahead of time confirms they offer passport photos.

What to bring to the Walgreens photo counter

Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID, or passport. While Walgreens does not always require ID for passport photos, having one speeds up the process and prevents confusion if there are any questions about the order.

Wear what you plan to wear in your passport photo. Passport photos show your face clearly, so avoid large hats, sunglasses, or heavy accessories. The background will be neutral (usually white or light gray), so your clothing choice does not matter for the photo itself, but you want to look like yourself on the day you take it.

If you are taking a photo for a child, bring the child with you. Infants and very young children have specific rules — they must have their eyes open and looking at the camera, and no one else can appear in the frame. Walgreens staff can guide you through these requirements.

How the photo session works at Walgreens

Walk up to the photo counter inside your Walgreens store. Tell the associate you need a passport photo. They will ask you a few quick questions — whether it is for a U.S. passport, whether you are a U.S. citizen, and whether you have any specific requests. These questions help them take a photo that meets State Department rules.

The associate will position you in front of the camera, usually seated or standing against a white backdrop. They will take one or more shots and show you the result on a screen. If you do not like how it looks, they will retake it. Once you approve the photo, they print two 2x2-inch copies on photo paper.

The entire process typically takes 5 to 15 minutes. You pay at the photo counter, and the prints are ready to take with you the same day. Some Walgreens locations also offer digital copies of your photo on a USB drive or emailed to you for an additional fee.

Walgreens photo requirements and State Department rules

Your Walgreens passport photo must follow specific rules set by the U.S. State Department. The photo must be 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face straight-on against a plain white or off-white background. Your head should take up 50 percent of the frame — not too close, not too far away.

Your eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera. You cannot wear glasses, tinted lenses, or sunglasses. You can wear regular eyeglasses if they do not have a glare or reflection, though the State Department recommends removing them. Your expression should be neutral — no big smiles, but a natural, relaxed face is fine.

You cannot wear a hat, headscarf, or head covering unless it is for religious reasons. If you wear a religious head covering, it must not shadow your face. You cannot use filters, heavy makeup, or digital editing. Walgreens staff know these rules and will guide you to meet them.

What to do if your Walgreens location does not have photo services

Not every Walgreens store offers passport photos. Smaller locations or those in rural areas may not have a photo counter. Call your local Walgreens before you go — the store locator on Walgreens.com lets you search by zip code and shows which services each location offers. You can also call the store directly and ask whether they take passport photos.

If your nearest Walgreens does not offer this service, other drugstore chains like CVS and Rite Aid also take passport photos for similar prices. Some UPS stores and local photography studios offer passport photos as well. Post offices sometimes take passport photos too, though availability varies by location.

Getting reprints and digital copies of your passport photo

If you lose your printed photos or need extras, Walgreens can print more copies. Bring your original photo or the receipt from your first order. Reprints usually cost less than the original session — often around $5 to $10 for two more prints. Turnaround is typically the same day.

Some Walgreens locations can email you a digital copy of your photo or save it to a USB drive. Ask the photo associate when you first have your photo taken whether your store offers this. If they do, you can request digital copies later by phone or in person, which is useful if you need the photo for other documents or forms beyond your passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Walgreens passport photo for other documents?

Yes. Walgreens passport photos meet State Department standards, which are also accepted for visas, travel permits, and some government IDs. However, other documents like driver's licenses or employment badges may have different photo requirements. Check the specific rules for your document before using a passport photo.

What if I do not like how my photo looks?

Walgreens will retake your photo during the same session at no extra charge. If you realize later that you are unhappy with it, some stores will retake it for a small fee or reprint it at a discount. Call your store to ask about their policy on retakes after you have left.

How long does a passport photo last?

The photo itself does not expire, but the State Department requires that your passport photo be taken within six months of when you submit your process. If you have your photo taken and then wait more than six months to explore for your passport, you will need a new photo.

Can I take my own passport photo at home and print it at Walgreens?

Walgreens can print a photo you took yourself, but it must meet all State Department requirements — correct size, background, lighting, and positioning. Many self-taken photos fail these rules. Having Walgreens take the photo ensures it meets requirements and avoids rejection when you submit your passport process.

Do I need an appointment for a Walgreens passport photo?

Most Walgreens locations do not require an appointment. You can walk in during store hours and have your photo taken. During very busy times, you may wait 15 to 30 minutes. Calling ahead lets you know the current wait time and can help you plan your visit.