US Passport Guide · 2026
Where to Get Passport Photos in 2026: The Ultimate Comparison
Choosing the right place for your passport photo comparison depends on three factors: price, speed, and whether you are a first-time applicant. This guide compares the top U.S. providers so you can find the cheapest passport photo 2026 option or the best digital passport photo service for your needs.
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 for… |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 & digital bundles |
| Staples | $17.99 | No | 10 min | Digital USB & TSA PreCheck |
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 file for State Department online renewal or DS-160. PixID, CVS, Walgreens, FedEx, and Staples offer digital passport photos. PixID delivers an instant compliant file for $4.99.
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
With over 15,000 combined locations, you are likely within a few miles of one. While they are among the pricier options at $16.99, they often include a free digital copy sent to your email, which is vital for online renewals. See our CVS passport photo and Walgreens passport photo guides for hours and coupons.
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 need a digital file on a USB drive or need to expedite your application through services like RushMyPassport, these business centers offer the most robust professional support. Compare Staples passport photo (digital bundles, TSA PreCheck) and FedEx passport photo for options.
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?
Create a government-compliant 2×2 photo online in minutes. Instant download for State Department or visa portals.
Get My Photo — $4.99