Passport Photos and Passport Paperwork: What a Notary Can Do

Getting Passport Photos

Pac Signing takes passport photos at our offices: $19.99 for U.S. passport photos and $29.99 for international passports such as Canada, China or France. A notary is only needed for some passport paperwork, not the main application.

U.S. passport photo rules

  • 2 x 2 inches, in color
  • Head 1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head
  • Plain white or off-white background
  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • No glasses, and no hats or head coverings except for religious or medical reasons
  • Neutral expression or natural smile, both eyes open

Photos that break these rules are a common reason applications are delayed. Other countries use different sizes, so tell us which country the photo is for.

Does a passport application need a notary?

No for Form DS-11. A first U.S. passport, or a child’s passport, is signed in front of a passport acceptance agent, such as a post office or county clerk, not a notary.

Yes for Form DS-3053. When one parent cannot attend a child’s passport appointment, that parent signs the Statement of Consent (DS-3053) in front of a notary. Pac Signing notarizes it for $10 per signature in the office, or a mobile notary can come to you.

Other passport-related documents often notarized: a certified copy of your passport for a bank or visa abroad, and sworn statements about a lost or name-changed passport when an agency asks for one.

How to get your photos

  1. Walk in to our Hillsboro, Beaverton, Lake Oswego or Vancouver office during office hours (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm).
  2. Wear a normal outfit and remove glasses.
  3. We take the photo, check it against the rules and print it.

FAQ

How much are passport photos at Pac Signing?

$19.99 for U.S. passport photos and $29.99 for international passport photos.

Can a notary sign my DS-11 passport application?

No. Form DS-11 must be signed in front of a passport acceptance agent, such as a post office.

Which passport form needs a notary?

Form DS-3053, the Statement of Consent for a child passport, must be notarized when a parent cannot attend.

Official source: U.S. Department of State: passport photo requirements.