You need one color photo with every application. 522 of the 583 acceptance facilities in California take passport photos on site, according to the State Department listing; the price is set by each office.
Photo rules
- 2 x 2 inches, in color, taken in the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background, no shadows.
- Neutral expression or natural smile, both eyes open, facing the camera.
- No glasses, unless you have a medical statement. No hats or head coverings except for religious or medical reasons.
- Not a filtered or edited selfie.
Cities with photos at the passport office
Offices with on-site photos are listed in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento, Fresno, Roseville, Long Beach, Riverside, Oakland, Irvine and Anaheim, among others. Every city page shows a "Photos" tag, and the search has a "Photos on site" filter.
Next steps
With a photo ready, follow how to get a passport in California, the child passport rules or renewal.
Questions
How many California passport offices take photos?
522 of 583, according to the State Department listing.
Can I wear glasses in a passport photo?
No. Glasses are not allowed unless you have a medical statement.
Sources
- U.S. Department of State, Passport Fees (updated October 9, 2025; checked November 6, 2026)
- U.S. Department of State, Get My Passport Fast (checked November 6, 2026)
- U.S. Department of State, Passport Forms
- U.S. Department of State, Passport Acceptance Facility Search (California offices, retrieved July 2026)
Independent guide, not a government website. Rules can change; the State Department has the final word.