More than 200,000 US passport customers were affected in 2015

In an October 14, 2016 announcement, the State Department reported that poor-quality or non-compliant photos had delayed more than 200,000 passport customers’ applications in the previous year. That figure refers to 2015.

It shows that photo problems have caused substantial delays. It does not tell us today’s rejection rate, the likelihood that your photo will be rejected or how often problems occur in other document applications.

A photo request is not a final denial

The State Department’s passport-photo page identifies unacceptable photos as the leading reason applications are put on hold. A hold can mean the agency needs another photograph before it can continue processing; it is different from a final decision to deny the application.

If you receive a notice, read the reason, response method and deadline together. Sending a better photo through the wrong channel can leave the original request unresolved.

Missing photos can hold up licensing applications too

Massachusetts OPSI’s photo submission form says a license renewal remains incomplete until the photograph is properly submitted. This is a stated consequence for that process, not a rejection rate for state licenses generally.

A missing attachment, an unreadable file and a poorly lit portrait need different fixes. Use the agency’s explanation to identify which problem you have before taking or exporting another photo.

Fix the cause before resubmitting

For a lighting, pose or focus problem, take a new photograph. For a file-format or print-scaling problem, check the original first. A suitable image may only need the correct export or print settings. Follow the document’s editing rules when making that correction.

Before sending it, compare the new photo with the stated reason for the request. Check the final attachment or print, include any reference information the notice asks for, and retain a copy of what you submitted.

Sources and further reading

US Department of State · October 2016 ↗US Department of State · Current passport-photo guidance ↗Massachusetts OPSI · Photo submission form for license renewal ↗

Requirements can change. Check the official instructions for your application before submitting.

Merodim is an independent photo-preparation service, not a government agency. Find your document →