Passport Photos in San Diego, CA — Locations, Hours & Photo Checker
San Diego offers numerous convenient passport photo services across its diverse neighborhoods, with options ranging from pharmacy chains to specialized photo studios. Professional providers like CVS, Walgreens, and local UPS stores ensure quick and compliant passport photo creation throughout the city.
Passport Photo Locations in San Diego
All 17 verified locations with hours, ratings, and one-tap directions
Balboa Mesa Shopping Center
The UPS Store
San Diego Passport Agency
The UPS Store
The UPS Store
The UPS Store
Walgreens Photo
FedEx Office Print & Ship Center
The UPS Store
A official passport photo
💡 Tip: Call ahead to confirm passport photo service availability, especially at smaller locations.
Photo Providers in San Diego
Quick comparison of providers based on this city’s actual locations and ratings
| Provider | Locations in San Diego | Avg. Rating | Typical Hours | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UPS Store | 5 locations | 4.1★ | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | $10-15 |
| CVS | 5 locations | 3.0★ | Open 24 hours | $10-15 |
| Walgreens | 3 locations | 3.2★ | 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM | $10-15 |
| FedEx | 1 location | 3.7★ | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM | $10-15 |
📍 Local Tips for San Diego
Insider knowledge from our San Diego County experts
Consider getting your passport photos taken in the morning when lighting is most consistent and photographers are freshest. La Jolla and Downtown locations tend to have the most experienced photographers.
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 San Diego
How much do passport photos cost in San Diego?
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Can I take my own passport photo at home?
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Can I smile in my passport photo?
Do I need an appointment for passport photos?
What should I wear for my passport photo?
Need to Renew Your Passport After Getting Your Photo?
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