Get Your Passport Photos in Petersburg, Virginia

Yes, you can take your own passport photo in Petersburg as long as it meets all federal guidelines. You must use a plain white or off-white background and have someone else take the picture, as selfies are not allowed. Services like Perfect Passport can help ensure your homemade photo is fully compliant.

A U.S. passport photo must be exactly 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) in size. The image must be printed in color on high-quality photo paper, and your head must measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.

No, you cannot wear glasses in your U.S. passport photo, even if you wear them daily in Petersburg. Hats and head coverings are also prohibited unless you submit a signed statement verifying they are worn daily for religious or medical reasons.

The basic size and background requirements are the same, but the State Department is slightly more lenient with infants' expressions and head positions. No other people can be in the photo, so Petersburg parents often find it easiest to lay their baby on a plain white sheet to take the picture.

Yes, you must submit a new photo when renewing your passport, even if your appearance hasn't changed significantly. The State Department requires all passport photos to be taken within the last six months to reflect your current look.

Routine passport processing currently takes about 6 to 8 weeks, while expedited service takes 2 to 3 weeks. Mailing times to and from the processing centers can add a few extra weeks, so Petersburg travelers should apply well in advance of their trip.

The closest regional facility is the Washington Passport Agency in Washington, D.C. This agency is only for travelers who have a life-or-death emergency or urgent international travel within 14 days. For standard processing, you can use a local Petersburg acceptance facility like the post office.