How to Print Passport Photos
Download a 4×6 sheet containing correctly sized 2×2 copies, print it as a standard 4×6 photo — at home or through any photo-printing service — and cut out the photos along the guides. Never let print settings resize or crop the image.
Last updated: August 26, 2026 · Reviewed by PassportSelf
The one rule that matters
The printed photos must measure exactly 2 × 2 inches — so the 4×6 sheet must print at its original size, with no fitting, filling, stretching or cropping.
Everything else about printing passport photos follows from this. PassportSelf's 4×6 sheet is generated at the exact right dimensions; printing mistakes are the only thing that can change them.
Printing at a photo service
Upload the 4×6 file, order a standard 4×6 glossy or matte print, and decline any cropping or 'enhancement'.
- Create your photo with PassportSelf and download the 4×6 sheet.
- Go to any photo-printing website, app or in-store kiosk.
- Upload the 4×6 image and choose a standard 4×6 print.
- Skip cropping, auto-fit and enhancement options.
- Pick up the print and cut along the guides.
Store-specific walkthroughs: printing at CVS and printing at Walgreens.
No appointment. No account. No subscription.
Printing at home
Use 4×6 photo paper, set the print scale to 100% / actual size, and choose the highest photo quality.
- Photo paper only — plain office paper is not accepted.
- Print size: 4×6. Scale: 100% (never "fit to page").
- Borderless mode is fine only if it doesn't stretch the image.
Verify before you submit
Measure one printed photo with a ruler — it must be exactly 2 inches on each side.
Also check that the print is sharp, colors look natural, and there are no printer streaks. If the size is off, reprint with resizing disabled rather than trimming to fit.
Frequently asked questions
How do I print a 2×2 passport photo on 4×6 paper?
Use a 4×6 sheet image that already contains correctly sized 2×2 copies (PassportSelf creates this automatically), print it as a standard 4×6 photo, and cut along the guides.
Can I print passport photos at CVS?
Yes — upload the 4×6 sheet to CVS photo printing and order a standard 4×6 print. See our CVS guide for the exact steps.
Can I print passport photos at Walgreens?
Yes — upload the 4×6 sheet to Walgreens photo printing and order a standard 4×6 print. See our Walgreens guide for the exact steps.
Do I have to print at all?
Only if your application needs a physical photo. Online applications like the DS-160 use the digital file, which PassportSelf also provides.
No appointment. No account. No subscription.