Houston is the fourth-largest city in the US and home to one of only 26 regional passport agencies — making it a major hub for passport services. Here's where to get your passport photos across the Greater Houston area.
Price Comparison
| Location | Cost | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Snap2Pass app + drugstore print | $5.37–$5.38 | Instant + 1 hr |
| CVS (full service) | $16.99 | 10 min |
| Walgreens (full service) | $16.99 | 10 min |
| USPS Post Office | $15.00 | 10 min |
| FedEx Office | $14.95 | 15 min |
| Staples | $14.99 | 15 min |
Option 1: Take Your Photo at Home
Open the Snap2Pass app and take a selfie against a white wall. The app validates your photo against US passport requirements and generates a print-ready tile with 4 photos.
Print at your nearest location:
- CVS for $0.38 — same-day pickup
- Walgreens for $0.39 — same-day pickup
Total cost: $5.37–$5.38 for 4 printed photos.
Option 2: CVS or Walgreens ($16.99)
Houston has hundreds of CVS and Walgreens locations. Full-service passport photos cost $16.99 at both — they take and print two 2x2 photos.
- Walk in during business hours, no appointment needed
- Call ahead to confirm photo service is available at your specific location
- Bring your own Snap2Pass photo to print for under $0.40
Option 3: USPS Post Office ($15.00)
Many Houston-area post offices offer both passport photo services and application acceptance. Convenient if you're submitting your application at the same time.
Option 4: FedEx Office or Staples
FedEx Office ($14.95) and Staples ($14.99) both offer passport photos at their Houston locations. Multiple locations across the metro area.
Houston Passport Agency
Houston hosts a regional passport agency at Mickey Leland Federal Building, 1919 Smith Street. This is for expedited service when you're traveling within 14 days.
- Appointment required through the State Department
- Bring your own compliant passport photos — the agency does not take photos
- Expect high demand during summer travel season
- Take your photos in advance with Snap2Pass to avoid delays at your appointment
Houston Tips
- Humidity matters — Houston's humidity can cause photos to stick. Choose glossy finish for better durability
- Indoor lighting — If the Texas heat keeps you inside, use a well-lit room with white walls. Avoid overhead fluorescent lighting that creates shadows under the eyes
- International community — Houston has a large immigrant population needing visa photos. Snap2Pass covers 555+ document types for international documents
- Spread-out metro — Factor in Houston's size when choosing a location. The nearest CVS is likely closer than the passport agency downtown
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the cheapest place to get passport photos in Houston?
Snap2Pass ($4.99) plus a CVS or Walgreens print ($0.38–$0.39) costs about $5.37 total for 4 photos. Full-service options cost $14.95–$16.99 for 2 photos.
Does the Houston Passport Agency offer passport photos?
No. The Houston Passport Agency at 1919 Smith Street does not offer photo services. You must bring your own compliant photos to your appointment.
Can I get same-day passport photos in Houston?
Yes. CVS, Walgreens, and FedEx Office all offer walk-in passport photo service. With Snap2Pass, take your photo instantly and pick up prints within an hour at any nearby drugstore.
