How much does a passport photo cost?
In-store passport photos in the US usually cost between about $5 and $17 for two prints, depending on where you go. Prices change and vary by location, so treat these as typical ranges and check before you go.
| Where | Typical price (2 photos) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CVS | about $17 | Most stores, no appointment; digital copy often included. |
| Walgreens | about $17 | Most stores; frequent coupons. |
| USPS | about $15 | Only at post offices that accept passport applications; often by appointment. |
| UPS Store / FedEx | about $15 to $17 | Independently owned, so prices vary more. |
| Walmart | about $8 | Not every store offers it. |
| Costco | about $5 | Members only; many locations have dropped the service. |
What you're paying for
The price covers a few minutes with a store camera, a crop to 2 x 2 inches, and two prints. If your photo is rejected, or your baby closes their eyes at the wrong moment, you pay again and make another trip. That's where home photos win: you control the light, take as many shots as you need, and only pay once you have one that passes the checks.
Making one at home
Take the photo with your phone, run it through the maker to size it, replace the background and check it, then order a single 4x6 print at any pharmacy photo counter for under a dollar. One 4x6 sheet holds two US passport photos with room to spare.
Questions people ask
What's the cheapest place to get a passport photo?
Warehouse clubs and big-box stores tend to be cheapest in person. Making the photo at home and printing a 4x6 sheet costs under a dollar for the print.
Do pharmacies guarantee acceptance?
Some offer a free retake if the photo is rejected; policies vary by store. Ask before you pay.
Can I print my own passport photo?
Yes. Print on photo paper at the correct 2 x 2 inch size. A 4x6 print from a pharmacy photo counter is the easiest way to get photo-quality paper.