What to Wear for a US Passport Photo
For a US passport photo, start with an everyday top you already feel comfortable wearing. A plain navy, charcoal or burgundy crew neck is an easy styling choice. You do not need a formal outfit. The important distinction is between official photo requirements and clothing choices that simply make the portrait look considered.
This guide covers US passport photos. Other countries can have different requirements. Guidance checked on September 29, 2026.
What the official rules actually say
The US Department of State says not to wear uniforms, clothing that looks like a uniform or camouflage. Remove glasses, headphones and wireless hands free devices. Hats and head coverings have documented religious or medical exceptions. Jewelry and facial piercings are allowed when they do not hide your face. Consult the official passport photo guidance for the full requirements and exception documents.
The background must be plain white or off white. The photo must be original and unedited. These are photo requirements, not reasons to buy a new wardrobe.
Choose the top for the neckline
Think about the part of your outfit that will frame your face, rather than styling a full travel look. Hold the top up in a mirror and notice its neckline, shoulder shape and colour.
- A simple crew neck creates a clear, familiar outline.
- An open collar can work if it sits naturally without constant adjustment.
- A bulky collar or loose scarf can become the first thing you notice in a portrait. Choose a quieter alternative if you want the focus to stay on your face.
- A neckline that drops very low may barely appear in the finished crop. Pick a more visible neckline if you would prefer the photograph to show your clothing.
These are styling preferences, not additional government restrictions. Our guide to how a T shirt should fit can help you choose a neckline and shoulder shape you find comfortable.
Can you wear white in a passport photo?
The official clothing guidance does not list white tops as prohibited. A darker top is our styling suggestion, not a separate passport rule.
Against a pale background, navy or charcoal gives the outfit a more defined outline. If black feels too severe for your taste, try a muted blue or burgundy. Pick the colour you like close to your face rather than chasing a supposed approved shade. For a more personal approach, read how to choose clothing colours for your skin tone.
Three simple outfit choices
| Your preference | Try | Why we would choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Casual and familiar | A plain navy crew neck | A visible neckline without much visual noise |
| A little more polished | A soft charcoal shirt with a relaxed collar | A neat frame without feeling dressed for an event |
| Colour without a statement | A muted burgundy top | An alternative to black that still feels understated |
None of these combinations guarantees photo acceptance. A good outfit cannot compensate for a photograph that fails the official requirements.
Before you leave for the photo
- Choose a top that sits comfortably when you face the camera.
- Check the collar and shoulders for folds you would find distracting.
- Review the official rules for anything you normally wear on your head, face or ears.
- Keep your outfit simple enough that you can stop thinking about it once the camera is ready.
You do not need to look like a different person for a travel document. The useful goal is a familiar, uncomplicated portrait.
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