Direct answer
A U.S. passport photo must be taken within the last 6 months. If the photo is older than that, or if your appearance has changed in a way that makes the photo less current, take a new one.
Why the 6-month rule matters
A passport photo is used for identity review, so the image needs to represent how you look now. A technically well-cropped old photo can still fail the recency requirement.
When to retake the photo
- The photo is older than 6 months.
- Your hair, facial hair, or appearance has changed noticeably.
- The photo was reused from another document.
- The file is a scan, screenshot, or picture of a printed photo.
- The photo was filtered, retouched, compressed, or AI-edited.
Take a fresh phone photo in even light, then check the file before you print or upload it. Use the paper application photo checker for printed applications or the digital renewal photo checker for online renewal.
Quick FAQ
Can I reuse an old passport photo if I look the same?
No, not if it is older than 6 months. The rule is based on when the photo was taken.
Can I use a photo from last year?
No. Take a new photo.
Does a baby passport photo also need to be recent?
Yes. Use a current baby photo, and make sure the baby is the only person visible.