Looking for passport photos near you? Many Walgreens photo counters take them on the spot, usually in just a few minutes, and print them to standard size and background requirements. Availability, pricing, and turnaround vary by store, so it's worth confirming your specific location offers passport photos before you go.
What to Expect at the Photo Counter
The process is designed to be fast: a team member takes your photo against a plain background, then prints the standard-size prints on the spot. You typically walk out with physical photos the same visit. Because it's a walk-in service at most stores, timing can depend on how busy the counter is, so a slower stretch of the day tends to be quickest.
- Photo taken in-store against a plain, light background.
- Printed to standard passport size and layout.
- Usually ready to take with you the same visit.
- Walk-in at most stores, though busy counters may mean a short wait.
How to Prepare for a Good Shot
A few small things help your photo meet requirements the first time. Wear everyday clothing that isn't white so it stands out from the background, skip hats and non-medical head coverings, and keep a neutral expression with your eyes open and face clearly visible. Glasses are generally not allowed in passport photos, so it's easiest to take them off before the shot.
- Wear normal, non-white clothing that contrasts with the background.
- Remove hats and, generally, eyeglasses before the photo.
- Keep a neutral expression with both eyes open.
- Make sure your full face is visible without heavy shadows.
Requirements Can Change
Passport photo rules are set by the government, not the store, and details like size, background, and what's allowed can be updated over time. Stores print to those standards, but the final acceptance is up to the passport agency. If you're unsure about a specific requirement, it's worth checking the current official guidelines before your appointment.
Photos for Kids and Infants
Baby and toddler passport photos follow the same background and framing rules but can be trickier in practice. Staff are used to it, and a plain approach usually works: keep the child facing forward with a neutral expression and nothing else in the frame. It can help to visit at a calmer time so there's room to get the shot right without pressure.
Finding a Store That Offers It
Not every Walgreens has a full photo counter, so a quick map search plus a call ahead confirms both that the service is available and that the store is open. Checking first also lets you ask about pricing and whether there's likely to be a wait, so you can pick the smoothest time to stop in.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Walgreens passport photos take?
At most stores the photo is taken and printed on the spot, usually within a few minutes, and you leave with physical prints the same visit. Timing can depend on how busy the counter is, so a quieter time of day tends to be fastest.
Do I need an appointment?
Passport photos are typically a walk-in service at stores that offer them, so an appointment usually isn't required. Since not every location has a full photo counter, it's worth confirming availability and store hours ahead of time.
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Glasses are generally not allowed in passport photos, so it's easiest to remove them before the shot. Requirements are set by the passport agency and can change, so check current official guidelines if you're unsure.
