If you’re reading this, you might be wondering, how big are wallet-size photos—and are they interchangeable with passport pictures?
Quick answer: Typically, they’re 2×3” and cannot be used as US passport photos.
If you want to know why, read on.
If you’re planning to apply for a passport with a wallet-size photo, your application will be rejected. Get the right-sized picture now, and rest easy knowing your photo is guaranteed to comply with US State Department regulations.
Would you like to know more about passport photos? Read through these related articles:
- Passport Photo Size in the US [Template & Guide]
- Passport Photo Sizes Around the World [With Dimensions]
- How to Take a Passport Photo at Home in 3 Minutes or Less
- Best Mobile Apps for 2×2 Passport Photos [Free & Paid]
How big is a wallet-size photo?
It’s common knowledge that wallets come in different shapes and sizes.
Thus, a wallet-size photo can refer to a picture that fits within the confines of a wallet, usually within a defined section, complete with a clear plastic window for protection.
So, how large is this space typically?
Most retailers have standardized wallet-size photos to measure 2×3 (e.g., CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart).
In fact, 2×3-inch photographs will fit most wallets. Now, “most” is the keyword here, as there are variations that cater to different needs and preferences.
Wallet-size Photo Variations
| Wallet-size photo | Dimensions | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard wallet size | 2×3 inches 51×76 millimeters | Bi-fold, tri-fold, or compact wallets |
| Mini wallet size (or slim wallet size) | 1½ x 2½ inches 38×64 millimeters | Minimalist wallets or when you want to save space |
| Square wallet size | 2×2 inches 51×51 millimeters | Various wallet types, particularly those with square compartments or pockets |
| Custom sizes | 1¼ x 1¾ inches or other | Cardholders or wallets with unique dimensions |
Wallet photo size vs passport photo size
Wallet photo size is not to be confused with passport photo size since, in 99% of cases, it is not the same (with square wallet size being the exception).
As you can see in the table above, wallet-size photos typically measure 2×3 inches but also come in other sizes allowing them to fit in a wallet perfectly.
Passport photos, on the other hand, are 2×2 inches and they follow specific requirements mandated by the US Department of State to ensure uniformity and accuracy.
Wallet-size photos vs passport photos—other differences
Besides the variation in size between the two picture formats, there are also notable differences between wallet-size photos and passport-sized ones in the following areas:
Rules and requirements
Wallet-size photos offer a more versatile and informal approach to capturing someone’s image and are not constrained by regulations.
Conversely, passport photos are used to identify individuals and must conform to federal guidelines and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
Price
Passport photos cost significantly more than wallet-size photos.
Two passport photos at Walgreens are approximately 17x more expensive than four wallet-sized prints ($16.99 vs. $0.99, respectively), so it’s understandable why people would be tempted to use them interchangeably for their document photos.
Unfortunately, submitting wallet photos in place of passport photos will only delay your application and end up costing you even more!
The reason why passport photos are much more expensive than other formats is due to the fact they must meet specific government standards, which increases their cost.
Get your passport photos from the comfort of your home with our Passport Photo Booth App for iOS or Passport Photo Maker App for Android. The only thing you need to do is to upload a picture, and we make sure it meets all official requirements.
Where can I print my own wallet-size photos?
You can print your own 2×3” wallet-size pictures on 4×6 inch matte or glossy photo paper at numerous retailers across the US.
However, depending on the provider, two or four wallet-size photo prints can be superimposed on each 4×6, and will need to be separated after printing.
Study the table below for the number of prints and pricing information offered by four of the most popular wallet photo retailers nationwide:
Wallet-size Photo Printing Guide
| Provider | Number of Prints | Price |
|---|---|---|
| CVS | 4 | $0.99 |
| Walgreens | 4 | $0.99 |
| Walmart | 2 | ● $0.38 + home delivery ● $0.58 to pick up your prints in-store |
| Sam’s Club | 2 | $0.19 + home delivery |
Note: Some stores may offer wallet-size photo prints in sizes other than 2×3 inches.
FAQs
Is a 2×3 picture a wallet-size photo?
Yes, it is. 2×3” is the standard wallet size offered by some of the nation’s largest retailers, including Walmart, Sam’s Club, CVS and Walgreens.
What are the dimensions of a wallet-size picture?
Wallet-size pictures can vary in size. However, most national providers (e.g., Walmart, Sam’s Club, etc.) define wallet size as measuring 2×3 inches—that’s 2 inches in width by 3 inches in height.
To learn about less common wallet sizes, click here!
Is a 2×2 photo wallet size?
Not typically. While some independent retailers sell “square wallet size photos” that measure 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), the 2-by-2 size format is normally used for US passport photos—and is significantly pricier than standard wallet photo services.
Is 2×3 passport size?
No, it isn’t. Neither the US nor any other country around the world uses 2×3” pictures for passport photos.
Summary
The standard dimensions for wallet-sized photos are 2×3 inches. However, variations exist to cater to different needs and preferences, such as:
- Mini wallet size: 1½ x 2½”
- Square wallet size: 2×2”
- Custom sizes: 1¼ x 1¾ inches or other
Remember that wallet-size photos differ from passport photographs since they don’t have a uniform size, nor do they adhere to the recommendations mandated by the US State Department.
There’s also the difference in price since you can get two or four wallet prints for about $1.00 at CVS, Walgreens, Sam’s Club, or any other photo lab in the US—while passport photos are significantly more expensive.
Sources
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos/digital-image-requirements.html
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html
Simon Wojtyczka is a writer with experience living and working in 7 countries, each adding depth to his work. Holding a Master’s in Applied Linguistics, he has a profound grasp of language and its intricate ties to culture.
