As of November 1st, 2016, customers applying for or renewing their passport must remove glasses for their passport photo.
Last year, more than 200,000 passport customers submitted poor quality photos which we couldn't accept. The #1 problem was glasses. We had to put their passport applications on hold because we couldn't clearly identify them from their photo.
If the photo of you in your unexpired passport has glasses, don't worry about it. You don't have to get a new passport now. Next time you renew your passport, though, you'll have to take your glasses off.
This policy change helps us and it helps you. We can see you more clearly now and you will experience fewer passport application delays and can move faster through U.S. ports of entry. Don't get us wrong, we love your glasses, but take them off for your passport photo.*
For more information on passport photos, check out our photo requirements.
*If you must wear eye glasses for medical reasons, you'll need to obtain and submit a signed statement with your passport application from a medical professional or health practitioner.
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