Applying for a passport can be an expensive endeavor when you factor in the cost of getting official passport photos taken. While CVS offers passport photo services at many pharmacy locations, you can also create passport photos at home for free using an online passport photo maker. Here are some tips to help you get affordable passport photos either through CVS or DIY online options.
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Why Choose CVS for Passport Photos
CVS stands out as a top choice for passport photos due to its widespread presence across the United States. With numerous locations in almost every city and town, finding a CVS store is often more accessible than other photo studios. Moreover, CVS follows strict adherence to official photo requirements, ensuring that your passport photos meet all necessary standards.
Source: cvs.com
Understanding Passport Photo Requirements
Before getting your passport photos taken, it’s crucial to understand the requirements set by government agencies. Standard passport photos typically measure 2×2 inches, have a white or off-white background, and depict a front-facing view of the applicant with a neutral facial expression. CVS staff is well-versed in these specifications and will guide you accordingly to ensure compliance. The USA passport photo requirements are listed detailedly:
Size: The passport photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size.
Color: The photo should be in color, not black and white.
Background: The background should be plain, white or off-white, without any patterns or shadows.
Facial Expression: The applicant must have a neutral facial expression, with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
Head Position: The head should be centered and facing the camera directly. It must not be tilted, and both ears should be visible.
Clothing: The applicant should wear everyday clothing for the photo. Uniforms or clothing that resembles a uniform should be avoided, except for religious attire that is worn daily.
Glasses: If the applicant wears glasses, they can be worn in the photo. However, there should be no glare on the lenses, and the eyes must be visible without any obstruction.
Headwear: Headwear is generally not allowed, except for religious purposes. If worn, it must not cover any part of the face, and the applicant should provide a statement explaining the religious reason for wearing it.
Expression: A natural smile is allowed but with a closed mouth.
Quality: The photo should be high-resolution with clear focus and good contrast.
Print: The photo should be printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper.
Source: youtube.com
Getting Cheap Passport Photos at CVS
CVS Pharmacy is one of the most convenient places to get instant passport photos in the U.S. However, the regular price of $21.99 for two passport photos is still quite steep. Here are some ways to save money on CVS passport photos:
- Check for coupons and deals online or via the CVS app. Discounts can bring the price down to $14.99 or less for two photos.
- Visit CVS during “Happy Hour” when passport photos are $2 off – usually early evenings but times vary.
- Order via the CVS Pharmacy app for exclusive app-only discounts. Sometimes just $10-15 for two passport photos.
- Buy reusable photo coupon booklets in-store that contain passport photo vouchers. Often a “Buy One Get One” type of deal.
- Get bulk pricing discounts when ordering 3, 5, or more sets of passport photos at once.
Other Passport Photo Alternatives
Alternatively, you can create CVS passport photos at home with a free online passport photo maker, entirely avoiding CVS or other photo lab costs. Some top options include:
AiPassportPhotos – This AI-powered tool automatically formats, crops, and sizes your photo according to official passport requirements for any country. The website offer users two free passport photo creating and downloading and is easy to navigate.
PassportPhoto.Online – Snaps and enhances a webcam photo and lets you download free passport-style photos formatted to government specs.
How to Create Cheap Passport Photos Online
Creating passport photos is quick and easy with online passport photo makers. Here we will show you how to get your passport photos in just a few seconds.
- Simply go to the website and upload a recent headshot photo. Make sure it has good lighting and that your face is clearly visible.
- The AI-powered platform will automatically detect your face and crop the photo to the exact size and proportions required for passports.
- When you are satisfied with the photos, download them directly from the tool in the standard 2”x2” size. The photos are optimized and formatted to meet all the official passport photo requirements in terms of head size, position, and print quality.
In just a few minutes you can obtain high quality, compliant passport photos without ever leaving home.
CVS vs Online Passport Photo Makers
| Criteria | CVS | Online Passport Photo Maker |
| Cost | $21.99 regular price, can get discounts down to $10-15 | Free |
| Convenience | Go to CVS location during business hours | Create photos anytime from anywhere |
| Photo Requirements | Guaranteed to meet requirements | Must check requirements yourself |
| Print Quality | Professional photo printing | Depends on your own printer |
| Editing Capabilities | Basic edits like cropping at photo counter | Self-edit and enhance photos before download |
| Time to Obtain | Visit CVS, short wait time | Just a few minutes online |
| Bulk Orders | Discount for multiple sets of photos | Most makers allow bulk downloads |
| Coupons/Discounts | Often available, sign up for deals | N/A – service is free |
| Mobile Access | Order via the CVS app | The website is mobile browser accessible |
Wrap Up
Getting CVS passport photos at cheap prices is a smart and practical choice for travelers. With their wide availability, adherence to official requirements, and occasional discounts, CVS offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on the quality of your passport photos.
Additionally, when using a DIY online passport photo maker, be sure to check the recent passport photo requirements for your destination country. Some specifications like dimensions and head sizes vary. To get the most affordable passport photos, try combining CVS deals and discounts with the convenience of a free online passport photo creator.
