What to Wear: Dress Code and Accessory Rules for Passport Photos

While you want to look your best in a photo that will last for ten years, the US government has specific rules about what you can and cannot wear. The general rule of thumb is to wear 'normal daily attire,' but there are several critical exceptions.

For side-by-side comparisons of acceptable and unacceptable attire and accessories, check our passport photo examples.

The No-Uniform Rule

You cannot wear a uniform or clothing that looks like a uniform in your passport photo. This is to ensure that the photo identifies you as an individual, not as a member of an organization.

• Military Uniforms: Any branch of the military service.
• Professional Uniforms: Pilot, police, medical, or commercial uniforms.
• Camouflage: Any clothing with a camouflage pattern, even if it's high-fashion or civilian gear.

Choosing the Best Colors

Since the background must be white or off-white, your choice of clothing color can affect how well you stand out in the photo.

• Avoid White: Wearing white can make you look like a 'floating head' as you blend into the background.
• Choose Solid Colors: Dark or vibrant solid colors (blue, green, black, burgundy) provide the best contrast and look professional.
• Minimize Patterns: Busy patterns can be distracting for biometric readers.

Jewelry and Piercings

Good news: You can keep your jewelry on for your passport photo, provided it doesn't obscure your face.

• Facial Piercings: These are generally allowed as long as they don't hide your features or create large reflections.
• Earrings and Necklaces: Small to medium items are fine. Avoid overly large items that might extend beyond your head boundaries or cast shadows.

Hair and Grooming

Your hair should not block any part of your face. If you have long bangs, sweep them to the side so your eyes and eyebrows are fully visible.