US Passport Guide · 2026
Passport Photo Cost Comparison 2026: CVS, Walgreens, UPS, USPS, FedEx, Staples
Choosing the right place depends on three factors: price, speed, and digital-file availability. This page is the hub for high-intent retail searches like CVS passport photo cost, Walgreens passport photo cost, UPS passport photo cost, and USPS passport photo price, with links to each dedicated store guide.
Price note: Figures below are typical national list prices (February–March 2026). Retail chains change regional pricing — confirm on the receipt screen before you pay.
Written by the pixid.studio compliance team · 2026. See State Department photo requirements.
Master comparison table
Use this passport photo price list to see where to get 2x2 photos by cost and speed. Click a provider for a step-by-step guide to their process.
| Provider | Price (2 photos) | Appointment? | Speed | Best use case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PixID.studio | $4.99 | No | Instant | Cheapest overall + digital file + compliance guarantee |
| Walmart | $7.64 | No | 10–15 min | Budget travelers |
| AAA | $0 – $20 | No | 5–10 min | AAA members (especially Premier) |
| UPS Store | $11.99 | Recommended | 15 min | Walk-ins & quick shipping |
| USPS | $15.00 | Required | Varies | First-time applicants (all-in-one) |
| FedEx Office | $15.95 | No | 10 min | Speed & quality guarantee |
| Rite Aid | $14.99 | No | 15 min | Mid-range drugstore option |
| CVS / Walgreens | $16.99 | No | 15 min | Convenience; prints-first (digital add-ons vary) |
| Staples | $17.99 | No | 10 min | Optional USB / print+digital bundles |
Which service fits your schedule? Click a provider above for a step-by-step guide to their specific photo process.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest place for passport photos?
PixID.studio is the cheapest at $4.99 for a compliant digital file — cheaper than Walmart, CVS, or any in-store option. For printed photos only (no digital), Walmart is cheapest at $7.64. If you need both digital and printed, PixID ($4.99) + Walmart print ($0.12) = $5.11 total.
Where can I get passport photos for online renewal?
You need a digital JPEG that meets portal limits. PixID ($4.99) is built for that. Drugstore counters primarily sell prints; digital/email add-ons are hit-or-miss. Staples and FedEx may offer USB or bundles — ask before payment.
Do I need an appointment for passport photos?
USPS requires an appointment for first-time passport applications. Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, FedEx, and most drugstores do not; walk-in service is typical.
How fast can I get passport photos?
Online services like PixID deliver in minutes. In-store: Walmart and FedEx about 10–15 minutes; CVS and Walgreens about 15 minutes.
Is AAA free for passport photos?
AAA Plus members get 1 set free per year; Premier members get up to 4 sets free. Non-members pay around $10–20. No appointment needed at most locations.
0. The overall cheapest option: PixID.studio — $4.99
At $4.99 for a compliant digital file plus a printable sheet, PixID is the cheapest passport photo option in 2026 — cheaper than Walmart, CVS, or any in-store service.
Add a $0.12 Walmart print and your total is $5.11 for both digital and physical photos.
Best for: online passport renewal, DS-160 visa, anyone who wants the lowest total cost with a compliance guarantee.
1. The cheapest in-store option: Walmart
At just $7.64, Walmart remains the undisputed price leader for in-store cheapest passport photo 2026. If you have a Supercenter nearby, it is the most affordable in-person option. Read our full Walmart passport photo guide for 1-hour pickup and the 12¢ print hack.
2. The convenience winner: CVS & Walgreens
CVS and Walgreens provide printed photos only — no digital file in the standard package. With thousands of combined locations, you are likely within a few miles of one. Typical list price for two printed 2×2 photos is about $16.99 (CVS) and $17.99 (Walgreens). (Some Walgreens locations sell digital/email add-ons; CVS is less consistent — see each guide.) For DS-160 or travel.state.gov upload, PixID is the straightforward digital option. See CVS and Walgreens guides.
3. The “first-timer” winner: USPS
If you are applying for your very first passport (Form DS-11), you must appear in person before an acceptance agent. Doing your photo at the Post Office ($15.00) during your appointment ensures the photo is accepted immediately by the person processing your application. Full details in our USPS passport photo guide.
4. The digital & business winner: Staples & FedEx
If you want counter service with optional USB or bundle pricing, compare Staples passport photo (prints $17.99; USB/bundle tiers) and FedEx Office (~$15.95 two prints; USB at some locations). TSA PreCheck enrollment is a separate service sometimes offered at Staples — it is not part of the passport photo product.
More options: AAA (free for Plus/Premier members), Rite Aid ($14.99), UPS Store ($11.99), Target (online-only 2026), Costco (online-only via Shutterfly).
Need a compliant digital photo for online renewal or DS-160?
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