Question 1

Can I take my own passport photo in St. Paul?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can take your own passport photo in St. Paul as long as it meets all federal requirements. You must use a plain white or off-white background, which you can easily find in your home or office, and ensure the lighting is even. Selfies are not permitted, so you will need a friend or a tripod to capture the image.

Question 2

What size and format does a U.S. passport photo need to be?

Accepted Answer

The U.S. State Department requires passport photos to be exactly 2 by 2 inches in size. The image must be printed in color on high-quality, uncreased photo paper with a matte or glossy finish. The applicant's head must measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.

Question 3

Can I wear glasses or a hat in my U.S. passport photo?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot wear glasses in your U.S. passport photo, even if you wear them daily in Minnesota. Hats and head coverings are also prohibited unless you submit a signed statement verifying they are worn daily for religious purposes or a doctor's statement for medical reasons. In all cases, your full face must be visible without any shadows cast by the headwear.

Question 4

Are passport photos for babies and young children different?

Accepted Answer

The basic photo requirements for babies and young children are the same as for adults, though the State Department is slightly more lenient on infant poses. No other person can be in the photo, so St. Paul parents often find it easiest to lay their baby on a plain white sheet to take the picture. The child's eyes should be open, but it is acceptable if a newborn's eyes are partially closed.

Question 5

Do I need a new photo to renew my passport?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must submit a new photo when renewing your U.S. passport. The State Department requires your passport photo to have been taken within the last six months to accurately reflect your current appearance. Even if your look hasn't changed much since your last passport was issued, reusing an old photo will cause your application to be rejected.

Question 6

How long does it currently take to get a passport?

Accepted Answer

Routine passport processing currently takes about four to six weeks, while expedited service takes two to three weeks. These timeframes do not include mailing times, which can add several weeks to the total door-to-door process. If you are applying at a local St. Paul acceptance facility, it is best to apply well in advance of your planned travel.

Question 7

Where is the closest U.S. Passport Agency to St. Paul?

Accepted Answer

The closest regional agency is the Minneapolis Passport Agency, located just across the river in downtown Minneapolis. This facility handles expedited processing for travelers facing life-or-death emergencies or urgent international travel within 14 days. You cannot walk in for routine service; an appointment is strictly required.

	Perfect Passport (home)	Walk-in
Typical price	$7.95 digital · $12.95 with prints	$15 – $20 for 2 prints
Time required	~2 minutes	30 – 60 min round trip
Where	Anywhere with a phone	Store hours only
Compliance check	Automatic, instant	Cashier judgement
Retakes	Free, unlimited	Pay again
Money-back if rejected	Yes	Rare

Get Your Passport Photos in St. Paul, Minnesota

The Easiest Way to Get Your Passport Photo at Home

Why most applicants skip the trip.

Where to get passport photos in St. Paul.

National chains

Walgreens Photo

Walgreens Photo

The UPS Store

Walgreens Photo

The UPS Store

Walgreens Photo

Walgreens Photo

Walgreens Photo

Walgreens Photo

FedEx Office Print & Ship Center

The UPS Store

CVS Photo

Independent studios in St. Paul

UMN Passport Office

Closest in-person passport agency to St. Paul.

Passport photo questions, St. Paul edition.

Skip the drive. Make a passport photo in St. Paul from your phone.