CVS passport photo cost in 2026 (and how to pay less)

The official CVS passport photo page, checked October 23, 2026, lists $17.99 for two 2×2 inch prints. An emailed digital copy costs $3.99 extra at select locations. Confirm local availability, tax and offers with the store.

Is the store photo better?

Not necessarily. The State Department accepts any photo that meets its requirements — 2×2 inches, head 1 to 1⅜ inches from chin to top of head, white or off-white background, no glasses, even lighting, taken in the last 6 months. Who takes it doesn't matter.

Pay less: make the photo yourself, print it at CVS

1. Stand in front of a plain light wall, face a window, and have someone take your photo at eye level.
2. Upload it to the US passport photo tool. It crops and sizes it automatically and flags problems such as shadows or a busy background.
3. Download the 4×6 print sheet and order a regular 4×6 print from CVS Photo.
4. Cut out the photos along the guides.

The total is the software price plus the photo printer's charge and applicable tax. Confirm that the print will be made at actual size. For US online renewal, use your original, unedited camera photo directly in the government application and crop it there.

Common reasons store photos get retaken

• Glasses left on (not allowed since 2016 without a medical statement)
• Shadows behind the head from the flash
• Head too small or too large in the frame

The tool estimates framing and flags some lighting and background problems. It cannot verify every requirement, including medical exceptions or whether glasses are permitted. Review the preview and official instructions before paying.