Get Your Passport Photos in El Paso, Texas

Yes, you can easily take your own passport photo from your home in El Paso using a smartphone or digital camera. The State Department allows self-taken photos as long as they meet all official requirements, such as having a plain white background and proper lighting. Just make sure someone else takes the picture, as selfies are strictly prohibited.

Your printed passport photo must be exactly 2 by 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size. The image must be printed on high-quality, matte or glossy photo paper and clearly show your full face, with your head measuring between 1 and 1.375 inches from chin to top of hair. Digital photos must be at least 600 by 600 pixels and saved in JPEG format.

No, the State Department strictly prohibits wearing eyeglasses in your passport photo, even if you wear them daily in Texas. Hats and head coverings are also banned unless you submit a signed statement verifying they are worn daily for religious purposes or medical reasons. In all cases, your full face must be visible without any shadows cast by a head covering.

The basic requirements are the same, but the State Department is slightly more lenient with infants and toddlers. For example, a newborn photographed in El Paso does not need to be looking directly at the camera, and their eyes can be partially closed. However, no other people, hands, or props can be visible in the frame with the child.

Yes, you must submit a new, updated photo every time you renew your U.S. passport. The State Department requires your picture to have been 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 renewal application to be rejected.

Routine passport processing currently takes about four to six weeks, while expedited service takes two to three weeks. Mailing times from West Texas can add a few extra days on either end of the process. If you have a life-or-death emergency or urgent travel, you may qualify for faster processing at a regional agency.

The closest regional facility is the El Paso Passport Agency, conveniently located downtown in the Anson Mills Building. This agency handles urgent international travel within 14 days and life-or-death emergencies for residents of West Texas and New Mexico. You cannot walk in for routine service, as appointments are strictly required.