Does USPS take passport photos? It may seem as if getting a passport opens the entire world to you, however it is a complex and lengthy process (we are talking about the federal government here). In most cases, applying for a passport is as simple as visiting your local post office. However, what about the vital passport photo? Are our passport photos made available at US Post Offices? Please read on for more information.
Does USPS Take Passport Photos In 2022?
The United States Postal Service does offer passport photo services in addition to providing passport issuance services, but these services are very limited. On USPS.com, if a customer enters his or her zip code, he or she can find the locations where the product can be picked up. The USPS charges $15 for taking a passport photo, which is a disproportionately high cost compared with other retail outlets.
About USPS:
USPS is a federal agency of the federal executive branch that is exclusively responsible for maintaining the United States postal system, including its associated states and insular areas.
How Do Passport Photos At USPS Work?
Many people apply for passports at the Post Offices of the United States Postal Service.
Photographs for passports, as well as those for these important documents, should be taken at these locations.
A majority of Post Offices do not provide this service, and the ones that do are fewer in number.
If this is your first visit, it is important you find a location that offers both services. In order to schedule an appointment online, you need to go to the USPS.com homepage and select the appointment scheduling option.
As you select the service type and select the service that you’re applying for, you’ll be able to enter the number of adults and minors under the age of 16 for whom the application is being made, and you’ll be able to submit the application.
You can select your desired location and date, enter your city and state, your zip code, and the radius you would like to use. When you hit “Search” be sure to check the box under “Passport photo locations.”
After clicking any available location by distance or time, you will be presented with a list of all available locations. If you would like to decide which method is best for you, make sure to provide your contact information. (Or you can book an appointment in person at a Post Office location using a self-service kiosk.)
USPS assumes that you will come prepared and show up 10 minutes early for appointments. Each appointment lasts about 15 minutes.
Remember to include the passport photo fee – $15 for each picture – when budgeting your transactions.
Postal employees (especially those with long-term experience) generally have quite a lot of knowledge about the passport photo procedure despite the strict requirements.
There will be a specific area for photos at each location, with a white or off-white background, and you will be guided to where you should stand.
Your glasses will probably need to be removed by the photographer. Straight-on photos – no coy head tilts.
Passport photos are cheaper at the post office?
The Post Office is where you can get your passport photo taken for the most expensive price.
People, however, believe that paying the $15 fee for a passport photo is a good deal since someone at the Post Office who is experienced could take an acceptable photo.
A DIY attempt, like taking a photo at home with a friend and then printing it out somewhere, is likely more likely than taking a photo together at home.
It’s nice to have it done at your post office because you can have all your documents for your passport application accounted for in just one visit.
Where Can I Get Passport Photos Cheaper Than The Post Office?
There are plenty of options to choose from if you decide to go the cheaper route, such as taking the picture at home and having it printed.
- $11.99 for UPS
- and $14.95 for FedEx (saving only five cents)
- In Sam’s Club, a print costs $.017 or $5.31
It is important to note, however, that not all of these retail outlets offer passport photo services. A consultation may be necessary if you have not checked ahead of time.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Passport Photo At The Post Office?
There will be no difference in the wait time at the Post Office for passport photos as there will be for actual passports.
You won’t be able to pick up the photos at the Post Office, but your application materials will include the photos.
Depending on whether major events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, occur during that time, you may have to wait up to six weeks to receive your passport.
A USPS refusal to accept your passport photo causes the process to be considerably slowed down.
Passport photos for babies are taken by USPS?
Baby passport photos are taken by the Postal Service!
As a kid, no one changes so much in 10 years, hence the passport is good for 10 years.
It seems that baby passport photos are quite challenging, according to Reddit users.
Conclusion
Some USPS locations do take passport photos on-site, but only a few of them are located nationwide.
Using the USPS.com Schedule an Appointment tool, you will be able to schedule an appointment for the turn-in of your passport application and “photo session” online.
What is the US Post Office’s passport photo fee?
Post Office locations that accept passport applications can take your passport photo for $15. If you need passport photos, contact your local Post OfficeTM facility to determine whether they offer the service and whether an appointment is required.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the US Post Office’s passport photo fee?
Post Office locations that accept passport applications can take your passport photo for $15. If you need passport photos, check with your local Post Office to find out whether they offer photo services and whether an appointment is necessary.
