What should you wear for a passport photo?

Wear normal everyday clothing in a color that contrasts with the plain white background; a white or cream top can blend into the background and cause a rejection for an unclear outline. Uniforms and camouflage are not allowed, with one exception: religious attire worn daily is fine. Glasses are not allowed; everyday jewelry is.

Check your United States passport photo against the official spec → Free check, accepted-or-money-back.

The specific rules

1. No uniforms or clothing that looks like a uniform, including camouflage. 2. Religious clothing worn daily is permitted, and head coverings worn for religious reasons are allowed with the full face visible. 3. Nothing on your head otherwise: no hats, headbands pushing into the forehead, or headphones. 4. Glasses off since 2016.

The practical advice

A mid-tone or dark solid top photographs best against the required white background. Avoid busy patterns near your face and high collars or scarves that touch the chin, since the chin must be clearly visible for the head measurement.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear a white shirt in a passport photo?

It is allowed but risky: against the required white background a white top can blur your outline, which is a real rejection reason. A contrasting color is safer.

Can I wear a work or military uniform?

No. Uniforms and camouflage are explicitly not allowed in US passport photos. Change into civilian clothing for the photo.