Can You Wear Glasses in a Passport Photo?

When applying for a passport, one essential requirement is submitting a valid passport photo. This photo must clearly show your entire face so border officials and security personnel can verify your identity without any confusion.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s passport photo guidelines, glasses are not allowed in passport photos. This regulation, known as the No Eyeglass Policy, was implemented in 2016 to reduce photo rejections and make identification easier.

The main reason for the ban is that glasses can obscure facial features. Lens glare, tinted lenses, or shadows cast by frames often hide parts of the eyes or face, making it harder to confirm a traveler’s identity. Before this rule, many passport applications were delayed or rejected for exactly these reasons. By eliminating glasses in passport photos, the government significantly reduced the number of rejected submissions.

Can You Wear Sunglasses or Tinted Glasses?

No. The No Eyeglass Policy also applies to sunglasses and any type of tinted eyewear. Sunglasses make it even more difficult to see your eyes, which is essential for accurate facial recognition in passports. For best results, remove all eyewear before taking your passport photo.

Exceptions: When Can You Wear Glasses in a Passport Photo?

While the U.S. passport photo rules are strict, there are rare medical exceptions. If you must wear glasses for a documented medical reason, you can keep them on, but you must provide additional paperwork:

• A signed statement from your doctor explaining why the glasses cannot be removed (e.g., recent eye surgery, protective eyewear needed for healing).

• The note should be submitted along with your passport application.

For those allowed to wear glasses due to medical necessity, additional conditions apply:

• There must be no glare or reflections on the lenses.

• Frames cannot cover any part of your eyes.

• There should be no shadows or light refraction from the lenses that obscure your eyes.

Without a signed medical statement, your passport photo will be rejected if you are wearing glasses.

Can Children Wear Glasses in Passport Photos?

The same rules apply to kids. In general, children cannot wear glasses in their passport photo, unless there is a documented medical reason. Parents or guardians must submit a doctor’s note with the application to explain why the child must wear glasses in the picture.

Passport Photo Tips: How to Take a Valid Photo on the First Try

To avoid application delays, follow these U.S. passport photo requirements in addition to removing glasses:

1. No hats or head coverings – Religious headwear is allowed if worn daily in public, but you must include a signed statement explaining its religious significance.

2. No uniforms or camouflage attire – Even if it’s not an official uniform, anything resembling one is not permitted.

3. No headphones or wireless devices – Nothing should obstruct your face or ears.

4. No face masks or coverings – Your entire face must be visible.

5. Jewelry and piercings are fine – As long as they don’t block your facial features.

6. Makeup is allowed – But it should not alter your natural appearance.

Can You Smile in Your Passport Photo?

Yes, you can smile! Contrary to popular belief, the State Department allows a natural smile as long as your eyes are open and your mouth is closed. The key is to maintain a neutral and natural expression.

Final Thoughts: Preparing for Your Passport Photo

While you can’t wear glasses in your passport photo, you can still travel in style once your application is approved. After your photo is taken, you can put on your favorite eyewear.

At EFE Glasses, we offer a wide selection of stylish prescription glasses, non-prescription eyewear, and sunglasses for men, women, and kids. Whether you need everyday lenses or travel-ready sunglasses, you’ll find plenty of affordable options to fit your look.