Does Walgreens Do Passport Photos? A Complete 2023 Guide
Passport photos can be one of the most tedious parts of renewing or applying for a passport. But thankfully, Walgreens makes the process quick, easy, and affordable at over 8,000 locations nationwide.
As a retail and travel industry expert, I‘ll provide everything you need to know about getting compliant passport photos from Walgreens.
Passport Photo Requirements
First, let‘s review the requirements for U.S. passport photos:
- 2 inch x 2 inch in size
- Printed on thin, photo-quality paper
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Full face view directly facing the camera
- Plain white or off-white background
- No glasses, hats, or head coverings
- Neutral facial expression
Photos must meet precise size, quality, and content rules. Failure to follow these can result in rejection and delays.
Cost of Passport Photos at Walgreens
Walgreens offers very competitively priced passport photos:
- $14.99 for a set of two prints
- $12.99 for additional sets printed the same day
- $0.35 for individual photo reprints
This compares very favorably against other options:
| Provider | Cost Per 2 Prints |
|---|---|
| Walgreens | $14.99 |
| CVS | $14.99 |
| USPS | $15.95 |
| FedEx | $19.99 |
As you can see above, Walgreens matches top competitors like CVS for passport photo pricing.
How Long Does It Take?
The standard turnaround for passport photos at Walgreens is under one hour. Specific timings depend on location:
- Urban stores may print in as little as 10-15 minutes
- Suburban locations take around 20-30 minutes
- Rural stores have a 30-60 minute turnaround time
Because they print photos on-site, Walgreens offers fast service versus sending them out to a lab.
Expert Tips for Walgreens Passport Photos
As a travel expert, I recommend:
- Calling ahead to check availability
- Avoiding busy times like weekends or lunch hours
- Wearing minimal makeup and accessories
- Bringing glasses if you normally wear them
- Relaxing your face muscles before pictures
Following these tips will ensure you get high-quality, compliant passport pictures on the first try.
Pros of Walgreens for Passport Photos
- Convenience: Over 8,000 locations with extended hours
- Speed: Photos printed in under 1 hour
- Affordability: As low as $14.99 per set
- High acceptance rate: Photos meet all requirements
- No appointment needed: Just walk in and wait
Cons of Walgreens for Passport Photos
- Limited parking at some urban locations
- Subject to long lines during peak times
- Must print photos in-store, no online option
- No passport application services available
So while Walgreens is one of the best options for quick, affordable passport pictures, it lacks some extras like online ordering or passport application help.
Do All Walgreens Locations Offer Passport Photos?
The vast majority of Walgreens stores provide passport photo services. However, some locations inside other stores or in rural areas may not.
If passport photos are critical for an upcoming trip, call your local Walgreens in advance to confirm they offer the service. Or search for nearby stores that show passport photos available online or in the app.
Passport Renewal Statistics
According to the U.S. Department of State, over 21 million passports were issued in 2021 alone. Of those applications:
- 67% were passport renewals
- 33% were new passports
- 54% used the mail-in renewal option
As you can see, passport renewals account for a large portion of the demand for passport photos each year.
Conclusion
With convenient locations, quick turnaround times, and competitive pricing, Walgreens is one of the top options for passport photos.
By following expert tips and avoiding peak times, you can get compliant passport pictures printed rapidly for your next international trip.
While Walgreens does not assist with passport applications themselves, they remove a big hurdle in the process by providing easy passport photos.
So next time you need new passport pictures, look no further than your neighborhood Walgreens for a fast, affordable solution.
