As a seasoned traveler and consumer expert, I know that getting a passport photo you‘re happy with can be surprisingly tricky. After all, this little 2×2 inch photo will be accompanying you around the world for the next decade, so you want to get it right!
One convenient option for passport photos that‘s popular with travelers is FedEx. The shipping and business services company offers passport photos at many of their FedEx Office locations across the U.S. But how does their service stack up in terms of cost, convenience, and quality? I dug into the details to bring you this comprehensive guide.
How Much Does a Passport Photo Cost at FedEx?
Let‘s start with the question that‘s top of mind for most cost-conscious consumers: price. FedEx charges $14.95 for a set of two 2×2 inch passport photos. This is on the higher end compared to some other popular passport photo options:
| Location | Price for 2 Photos |
|---|---|
| Walgreens | $14.99 |
| CVS | $13.99 |
| Rite Aid | $8.99 |
| Walmart | $7.44 |
| Costco | $4.99 |
| USPS (post office) | $15.00 |
| UPS Store | $11.99 |
As you can see, FedEx is the second most expensive on the list, trailing only the U.S. Postal Service at $15. However, there are some notable advantages to using FedEx that may make that extra cost worth it for certain travelers (more on that later).
It‘s also worth considering how passport photo pricing at FedEx compares to the total cost of obtaining a passport. As of 2023, a U.S. passport book for adults costs $130, while a passport card is $30. Passport renewals cost $130 for a book and $30 for a card. So in the grand scheme of passport fees, an extra $5-$10 for photos is rather negligible.
Finding a FedEx Location for Passport Photos
As of 2023, there are over 2,000 FedEx Office locations across the United States. However, not every single location offers passport photo services. To find a FedEx Office that does take passport photos near you:
- Go to the FedEx Office passport photo page
- Click the "Locate a nearby FedEx Office" button
- Enter your address, city/state, or zip code in the search bar
- Check the box for "Passport and photo services" under Filters
- Click search to see a list of nearby FedEx Office stores offering passport photos
- Select a store to see location details, hours, and directions
According to FedEx, roughly 1,400 of their 2,000 U.S. locations offer passport photo services. So while it‘s not a given, it‘s still highly likely that you have a convenient FedEx location taking passport photos near you.
Reasons to Get Your Passport Photos at FedEx
Now let‘s get into the potential advantages of using FedEx for your passport photos over other options. Here are some of the key reasons travelers may want to choose FedEx:
Convenience – FedEx Office locations are open early and late (some 24 hours), 7 days a week, so it‘s easy to pop in for quick passport photos on your schedule, no appointment needed. Around 1,400 of FedEx‘s 2,000 U.S. locations offer passport photos, so chances are there‘s one near you.
Speed – The passport photo process at FedEx is quick and efficient. They‘ll snap your photo, print it out, and have you on your way in about 10 minutes. Digital photos are not provided.
Reliable quality – FedEx uses high-quality printers and paper specifically designed for passport photos to ensure your photo will look its best and meet all official requirements for size, resolution, background, etc. Store associates are also trained in taking passport photos that meet government standards. In the unlikely event a photo is rejected because of a FedEx error, they‘ll retake your photo for free.
Expedited passport renewal service – For passport renewals, FedEx offers a convenient expedited service via RushMyPassport. This allows you to do your passport renewal paperwork and photos at FedEx and then have everything expedited for processing in as little as 10 business days. It‘s a fantastic option if you need to renew ASAP. Note that expediting fees apply on top of regular passport renewal fees.
Satisfaction guarantee – FedEx stands behind their passport photo service with a satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you‘re unsatisfied with your photos or they‘re somehow rejected, FedEx will retake your photo for free.
Passport Photo Stats & Facts
To further illustrate the importance of getting a good passport photo, let‘s look at some relevant statistics and data points:
- In 2022, over 22 million passports were issued by the U.S. State Department, a record high as travel rebounded post-pandemic. This number includes 16 million passport books and 6 million passport cards.
- About 10% of passport applications are denied due to problems with the photo, such as poor quality, incorrect size, or failure to meet composition rules.
- The most common reasons for passport photo rejection include subject wearing glasses, shadows across face, poor lighting, subject not looking directly at camera, and expression issues (squinting, frowning, smiling too big).
- Having a passport photo rejected can delay your passport application by weeks and even require you to repay the application fees in some cases.
- According to a recent survey, over 50% of Americans plan to travel more in 2023 compared to 2022 to make up for lost time during the pandemic. Experts are predicting a surge in passport applications and renewal requests.
Tips for a Perfect Passport Photo at FedEx
To ensure your FedEx passport photos turn out great and get accepted by the State Department, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Wear a colored shirt that contrasts with the background, but avoid patterns, logos, or anything too bright/distracting. Remember, the background will be white or off-white.
- Keep jewelry and accessories minimal so they don‘t detract from your face. If you wear glasses, consider removing them to avoid glare and shadows.
- Do your makeup how you normally would for a typical day (if you wear any). Now is not the time for a bold new look!
- If you have long hair, style it in a way that keeps it out of your face and off your shoulders. Your hair shouldn‘t cover your eyes, brows, or ears.
- Face the camera straight on and maintain a neutral expression. No exaggerated smiles, frowns, or other expressions.
- If possible, get your photo taken on a day you‘re well-rested and feeling confident — it will show through in the final result!
- Scan your printed photos carefully and don‘t hesitate to ask for a retake if needed. The FedEx associate should be happy to work with you to get a photo you‘re satisfied with.
Passport Photo FAQ
Let‘s wrap up with answers to some common questions about passport photos at FedEx and in general:
Q: What is the size of a passport photo?
A: U.S. passport photos must be 2 x 2 inches square.
Q: Can I take my own passport photo?
A: Technically yes, but it‘s very tricky to get a self-taken photo that meets all the official rules for sizing, background, lighting, head position, etc. Unless you‘re a seasoned photography pro, it‘s best to leave it to the experts.
Q: How many passport photos do I need?
A: You‘ll need to submit one physical photo with your passport application. However, it‘s a good idea to have a spare on hand, which is why places like FedEx provide two.
Q: How strict are the photo requirements, really?
A: Very strict! The State Department is not messing around when it comes to passport pics. Even small deviations from the guidelines can cause your photo to be rejected, so it‘s important to follow the rules to a T.
Q: What should I do if my passport photo is rejected?
A: If your passport application is denied due to photo issues, you‘ll receive a letter from the State Department with instructions on how to submit a new photo. You may need to fill out a new application and pay the fees again as well. If the photo was taken at FedEx, bring your rejection letter to them and they should retake your photo for free.
The Bottom Line
Don‘t underestimate the importance of a great passport photo! This little square picture will be your official government ID for international travel for the next 10 years, so it‘s worth putting in the effort to get one you‘re happy with.
Getting your passport photos done at FedEx is a solid choice for many savvy travelers who value convenience, speed, and reliability. While they‘re not the absolute cheapest option out there, the extra couple bucks may be worth it for the ease and peace of mind.
Hopefully this comprehensive guide has given you all the info you need to make an informed decision about your passport pics. For even more tips on travel documents and IDs, check out my guides on getting an international driver‘s permit and replacing a lost passport. Happy travels!
