Overview On Does Walgreens Do Passport Photos?
Yes, Walgreens offers passport photo services at most of its locations.
Customers can visit the photo department at their nearest Walgreens store, where a staff member will take the passport photo according to U.S. Department of State guidelines.
The photos are usually ready within a few minutes. Walgreens ensures that the photos meet the required specifications, such as size, background, and facial expression.
It’s a convenient option for people looking to get passport photos quickly and efficiently.
Availability Of Walgreens Passport Photo Services
Walgreens passport photo services are widely available across most of its stores in the United States.
The majority of Walgreens locations with a photo department offer this service, making it convenient for customers to get their passport photos taken without needing to make an appointment.
Here are some key points regarding the availability:
- Nationwide Locations: With over 9,000 Walgreens stores across the U.S., chances are high that a location near you provides passport photo services. Most stores with photo centers offer this service during normal business hours.
- How to Find a Store: To find a Walgreens location that offers passport photos, you can use the Walgreens store locator on their website or mobile app. Simply search for a store near you and check if they have a photo department.
- No Appointment Necessary: Typically, no appointment is needed to get passport photos at Walgreens, allowing for walk-in convenience. However, it’s recommended to check with your local store in case there are any specific time restrictions or high demand periods.
- Operating Hours: Passport photo services are generally available during regular store hours, but some stores may have different hours for the photo center. Checking the specific hours of your nearest store online can help ensure they are open when you plan to visit.
Overall, Walgreens’ passport photo services are easily accessible due to the large number of stores across the country and the convenience of not requiring an appointment.
Cost Of Passport Photos At Walgreens
The cost of passport photos at Walgreens is typically around $16.99 for a standard set of two 2×2 inch photos, which meets the U.S. passport requirements.
Walgreens often runs promotions or offers discounts through coupons, which can reduce the price slightly.
Compared to other retailers like CVS and Walmart, Walgreens’ pricing is similar. Some places may offer passport photos for a lower price, but Walgreens is known for its convenience and the availability of photo services at many locations.
In addition to physical passport photos, Walgreens may also offer digital copies for an additional fee.
Process Of Getting Passport Photos At Walgreens
1. Locate a Walgreens with Photo Services
- Use Walgreens’ store locator on their website or app to find a nearby location offering passport photo services.
- Most Walgreens stores with a photo department provide this service, but it’s always a good idea to confirm.
2. Walk-In or Make an Appointment
- Walk-In: You can typically walk into any Walgreens with photo services without an appointment. Passport photos are usually taken on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Appointment: While not required, some Walgreens locations may allow you to schedule an appointment to avoid waiting.
3. Photo Taken in the Store
- A staff member will assist you by taking your photo using a professional camera.
- They ensure that the photo meets U.S. Department of State guidelines, such as proper lighting, correct background, and facial expression (neutral).
4. Photo Review
- Once the photo is taken, the staff will show you the picture for approval. If you’re unhappy with the shot, they will retake it.
5. Photo Printing
- The photos are printed on the spot, usually within a few minutes. Walgreens uses high-quality printers to ensure the photo meets passport standards.
6. Payment
- After your photo is ready, proceed to the checkout to pay. The current price is typically around $16 for two passport-sized photos, though pricing may vary slightly by location.
7. Receive Your Photos
- You’ll receive two printed passport photos that are ready for submission with your passport application.
- Some locations may offer digital copies upon request for an additional fee.
With this process, you can get your passport photos quickly, often in 10-15 minutes from start to finish.
Photo Requirements
When getting passport photos at Walgreens, the store follows specific guidelines set by the U.S.
Department of State to ensure the photos are compliant with passport regulations. Below are the key requirements:
1. Photo Size and Dimensions
- The passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size.
- The head must be centered, measuring between 1 inch and 1 ⅜ inches from the chin to the top of the head.
2. Background
- The background must be plain white or off-white with no patterns, shadows, or objects.
- Walgreens ensures that the photo is taken against a clean, smooth surface for compliance.
3. Facial Expression and Pose
- The individual must face the camera directly with a neutral expression or a natural smile.
- Eyes must be open, and there should be no tilting or turning of the head.
4. Clothing and Appearance
- Regular, everyday clothing should be worn (no uniforms, except religious attire worn daily).
- Glasses are not allowed unless medically necessary, and in such cases, a signed statement from a doctor is required.
- Hats and head coverings are generally prohibited unless for religious purposes, in which case the full face must be visible.
5. Photo Quality
- The photo must be printed on high-quality photo paper with no creases or marks.
- It must be clear and in color with appropriate brightness and contrast, free of shadows or glare.
6. Recency of the Photo
- The passport photo must be taken within the last 6 months to reflect the current appearance.
Walgreens adheres to these specifications to ensure that the passport photos they provide meet official requirements, helping to prevent delays or rejections during the passport application process.
If the photo does not meet these guidelines, Walgreens usually offers retakes at no additional charge.
Conclusion
Walgreens is a convenient and reliable option for getting passport photos, offering services at most of its locations.
They ensure compliance with U.S. Department of State guidelines, making the process straightforward and quick. With affordable pricing, fast turnaround times, and attention to detail in photo quality,
Walgreens provides a practical solution for individuals needing passport photos. Whether you walk in or make an appointment, the experience is designed to be hassle-free, making it a top choice for passport and ID photo needs.