✅ State Department Compliant • 5 Locations in El Centro • Same-Day Service
📸 5 Verified Photo Locations

Passport Photos in El Centro, CA — Locations, Hours & Photo Checker

El Centro offers multiple convenient options for obtaining official passport photos, including local pharmacies and specialized photo studios in the city center. Professional photographers and retail locations like CVS and Walgreens provide quick and standardized passport photo services for travelers.

5+ Locations
$10-15 Avg Cost
5–10 min Service Time
3.4★ Avg Rating
Where can I get passport photos in El Centro, CA? El Centro has 5 passport photo locations including Walgreens, CVS, UPS Store, and FedEx — typical cost is $10-15, ready in 5–10 minutes. The full list with hours and ratings is below, ranked by quality.

Passport Photo Locations in El Centro

All 5 verified locations with hours, ratings, and one-tap directions

UPS Store
⭐ Top Rated🔥 Popular
★★★★☆ 4.2 (111 reviews)

The UPS Store

📍1002 N Imperial Ave Ste 2
🕐8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
📞(760) 693-5145
CVS
🔥 Popular
★★★☆☆ 3.2 (94 reviews)

CVS

📍1745 S Imperial Ave
🕐8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
📞(760) 353-5130
Photo Service
🔥 Popular
★★★☆☆ 3.1 (61 reviews)

United States Postal Service

📍1598 Main St
🕐8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
📞(800) 275-8777
Walgreens
🔥 Popular
★★½☆☆ 2.6 (97 reviews)

Walgreens

📍100 N Imperial Ave
🕐7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
📞(760) 335-4904
Photo Service

Staples Travel Services

📍560 E Danenberg Dr
🕐9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
📞(760) 335-4901

💡 Tip: Call ahead to confirm passport photo service availability, especially at smaller locations.

Photo Providers in El Centro

Quick comparison of providers based on this city’s actual locations and ratings

Provider Locations in El Centro Avg. Rating Typical Hours Cost
UPS Store 1 location 4.2★ 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM $10-15
CVS 1 location 3.2★ 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM $10-15
Walgreens 1 location 2.6★ 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM $10-15

📍 Local Tips for El Centro

Insider knowledge from our Imperial Valley experts

During summer months, consider scheduling passport photos early in the morning to avoid intense Imperial Valley heat. Some local photo providers offer discounts for multiple prints or group photo sessions.

💡 Popular neighborhoods: Downtown El Centro and Meadows

US Passport Photo Requirements

Official specifications from the U.S. Department of State

📐 Size & Dimensions

Photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)

  • Head height: 1 to 1⅜ inches
  • Eye level: 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches from bottom
  • Print on matte or glossy paper

📸 Photo Quality

High resolution, in focus, proper exposure

  • Taken within last 6 months
  • Color photo (no black & white)
  • Natural skin tones

⚪ Background

Plain white or off-white only

  • No patterns or textures
  • No shadows on background
  • Uniform color throughout

👤 Head Position

Face forward, directly at camera

  • Head straight (not tilted)
  • Full face view, ears visible
  • Eyes open and clearly visible

😐 Expression

Neutral expression, mouth closed

  • No smiling with teeth
  • Both eyes open
  • Natural expression

👓 Glasses & Accessories

Generally not allowed

  • Remove eyeglasses (unless medical)
  • No sunglasses or tinted lenses
  • No headphones or devices

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about passport photos in El Centro

How much do passport photos cost in El Centro?
Passport photos in El Centro typically range from $12-$15 per set. Most providers offer digital and printed versions at competitive rates.
Where can I get passport photos in El Centro?
CVS, Walgreens, and local photography studios provide passport photo services throughout El Centro. Many pharmacies offer walk-in options with minimal waiting times.
Can I take my own passport photo at home?
While DIY passport photos are possible, professional services ensure compliance with strict government requirements. Professional photographers guarantee proper lighting, background, and sizing.
How quickly can I get passport photos in El Centro?
Professional passport photo sessions usually take 5-10 minutes from start to finish. Most providers can deliver digital and printed images immediately.
What are the US passport photo requirements?
Passport photos must be 2×2 inches with a plain white or off-white background. Individuals must face directly toward the camera with a neutral expression.
Can I smile in my passport photo?
Passport photos require a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Slight, natural smiles are sometimes acceptable, but broad grins are not permitted.
Do I need an appointment for passport photos?
Many El Centro photo providers offer walk-in services without prior scheduling. Some studios recommend calling ahead during peak tourist seasons.
What should I wear for my passport photo?
Wear solid colors that contrast with the white background for best results. Avoid white shirts or busy patterns that might interfere with photo clarity.

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