Where to Get Passport Photos in Ames, Iowa

Yes, you can take your own passport photo in Ames as long as it meets all strict U.S. State Department guidelines. Services like Perfect Passport make this easy by verifying your selfie against federal requirements right from your smartphone. Just ensure you have good lighting and a plain white or off-white background in your home.

A U.S. passport photo must be exactly 2 by 2 inches in size and printed in color on high-quality photo paper. Your head must measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. Digital photos used for online renewals must also be at least 600 by 600 pixels.

No, the State Department strictly prohibits wearing glasses in your passport photo, even if you wear them daily in Ames. Hats and head coverings are also not allowed unless you submit a signed statement verifying they are worn daily for religious or medical reasons. Your full face must be clearly visible without any shadows or obstructions.

The basic photo requirements are the same, but the State Department is slightly more lenient with infants and toddlers. For example, a newborn's eyes do not need to be completely open, and you can lay them on a plain white sheet to take the picture. Just make sure no other people, hands, or pacifiers are visible in the baby's photo.

Yes, you must submit a new, updated photo every time you renew your U.S. passport. The State Department requires your photo to be taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance. Even if your look hasn't changed much, reusing an old photo will cause your application to be rejected and delay your travel plans.

Routine passport processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, while expedited service takes 2 to 3 weeks. Mailing times to and from the processing center can add several additional weeks to the total wait. If you are applying at the Ames Post Office or Story County Recorder, it is best to submit your application well ahead of your planned departure.

The closest regional facility for urgent travel is the Minneapolis Passport Agency, located about 210 miles north of Ames. This agency is strictly for travelers who have an international departure within 14 days or a qualifying life-or-death emergency. You cannot walk in for routine service and must schedule an appointment by calling the National Passport Information Center.