Can You Wear Glasses in a Passport Photo?
No. The US has banned glasses in passport photos since November 2016. Here's what you need to know about the rule, exemptions, and how to take a compliant photo.
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The official rule
"Starting November 1, 2016, the Department of State will no longer accept photos where the applicant is wearing eyeglasses." — U.S. Department of State
Why are glasses banned?
Before the 2016 rule, glasses were the #1 cause of passport photo rejections. The State Department reported that hundreds of thousands of applications were delayed each year due to glasses-related issues:
- ✗ Glare on lenses obscuring the eyes
- ✗ Shadows cast by frames onto the face
- ✗ Frames covering the eyes or eyebrows
- ✗ Tinted lenses changing eye appearance
Rather than trying to define acceptable glasses (which led to inconsistent enforcement), the State Department implemented a complete ban with limited medical exceptions.
What types of glasses are banned?
All glasses, including:
- ✗ Prescription glasses
- ✗ Reading glasses
- ✗ Sunglasses
- ✗ Transition lenses
- ✗ Blue light glasses
- ✗ Safety glasses
- ✗ Clear fashion frames
- ✗ Sports goggles
Medical exemption: When glasses ARE allowed
There is one exception: if you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, you may wear them with proper documentation.
To qualify for the medical exemption:
- 1. Get a signed statement from your doctor explaining why you cannot remove your glasses
- 2. Include this statement with your passport application
- 3. Your photo must still meet all other requirements (no glare, frames not covering eyes)
Examples of valid medical reasons:
- • Recent eye surgery requiring protective eyewear
- • Medical conditions affecting light sensitivity
- • Conditions requiring constant eye protection
Note: Poor vision alone is not a valid reason. Even with very poor eyesight, you can safely remove glasses for a few seconds to take a photo.
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Contact lenses are fine
Regular contact lenses are allowed. Just avoid colored contacts that change your natural eye color.
Take multiple photos
Without glasses, you might squint or look uncomfortable. Take several photos and choose the most natural-looking one.
Watch for indentations
If you wear glasses daily, you may have temporary marks on your nose. Wait a few minutes after removing them before taking your photo.
Don't worry about recognition
TSA and border agents are trained to recognize you whether you're wearing glasses or not. Your bone structure and facial features don't change.
Glasses rules in other countries
Most countries now follow similar rules. Here's a quick overview:
| Country | Glasses Allowed? |
|---|---|
| United States | No (since 2016) |
| United Kingdom | No (since 2019) |
| Canada | No |
| Australia | No |
| EU / Schengen | No (most countries) |
| India | Only if worn daily* |
| Japan | No |
*Some countries allow glasses with restrictions. Always check current requirements before applying.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my US passport photo?
No. Since November 2016, glasses are banned in US passport photos. This includes prescription glasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses. The only exception is if you have a signed medical statement from your doctor.
Why did the US ban glasses in passport photos?
Glasses caused issues with facial recognition technology and photo verification. The State Department reported that glasses-related problems (glare, shadows, frame obstruction) were the leading cause of photo rejections before the ban.
Can I wear glasses if I have a medical condition?
Yes, but only with a signed statement from your doctor explaining why you cannot remove your glasses. Examples include recent eye surgery or conditions requiring protective eyewear. Even then, the glasses cannot have tinted lenses or cause glare.
Can I wear contact lenses in my passport photo?
Yes, regular contact lenses are allowed. However, colored contact lenses that change your eye color are not permitted.
What if I always wear glasses—will TSA recognize me?
Yes. Facial recognition focuses on bone structure, eye spacing, and other permanent features—not glasses. TSA and border agents are trained to verify identity regardless of whether you're wearing glasses in person.
Do other countries allow glasses in passport photos?
Most countries now ban glasses in passport photos, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries. A few countries still allow them with restrictions (no glare, frames not covering eyes).
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