# 🇺🇸US ID Card Photo

Country: United States

Document: ID Card

Page language: en

Page: [🇺🇸US ID Card Photo](https://onedollarpassportphoto.com/us/id/)

Requirements last verified: 2025-01-15

Applies to: Understanding the ID card photo standard and preparing before your photo is taken at the issuing office.

Does not apply to: Supplying your own photo. The issuing office photographs you on site; outside photos are not accepted for the ID card.

The issuing office takes the photo in person. Applicants cannot supply their own photo for this document.

## Photo specifications

These are document-specific values from the page data. Printed and digital requirements may apply to different application routes; consult the guide and sources below.

| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Photo dimensions | 2 × 2 in |
| Photo paper | Glossy or matte |
| Digital pixel dimensions | 600 × 600 px (see guide/source for applicability and minimum vs exact sizing) |
| Digital file format | JPEG |
| Maximum digital file size | 240 KB |
| Photo age | Taken within 6 months |

## Appearance and composition

- Background: Plain white or light blue background (varies by state)
- Head size: Head should fill 50-70% of frame
- Glasses: Permitted; check the source for restrictions.
- Even lighting; no harsh shadows.
- Filters, beauty modes and retouching are forbidden.
- Color photo.
- Head coverings are permitted for religious reasons; check the source for conditions.
- Uniforms are restricted; check the source for exceptions.
- No earphones or wireless devices.

## What to expect at your appointment

Understanding the ID card photo standard and preparing before your photo is taken at the issuing office.

[Read the official requirements](https://www.usa.gov/state-id)

## How to prepare

Sort these before your appointment and the photo passes first time.

-   Eyes closed or looking away - Both eyes must be open and looking at the camera
-   Head tilted - Face must be straight and forward-facing
-   Poor lighting - Photo must have even lighting without harsh shadows
-   Wearing hat or headwear - No hats allowed except religious head coverings
-   Face partially obscured - Full face must be clearly visible

## Common rejection reasons

- Eyes closed or looking away - Both eyes must be open and looking at the camera

- Head tilted - Face must be straight and forward-facing

- Poor lighting - Photo must have even lighting without harsh shadows

- Wearing hat or headwear - No hats allowed except religious head coverings

- Face partially obscured - Full face must be clearly visible

## Source for the document requirements

[Source linked by the document page](https://www.usa.gov/state-id)

The complete guide below includes additional sources and application-specific qualifications when available.