Los Angeles is spread out, so finding the most convenient spot for passport photos depends on where you are. Every option from drugstore chains to phone apps is available across LA County — here's how they compare.
Price Comparison
| Location | Cost | Wait Time | Locations in LA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snap2Pass app + drugstore print | $5.37–$5.38 | Instant + 1 hr | Everywhere |
| CVS (full service) | $16.99 | 10 min | 200+ |
| Walgreens (full service) | $16.99 | 10 min | 150+ |
| USPS Post Office | $15.00 | 10 min | Many |
| FedEx Office | $14.95 | 15 min | 50+ |
| Staples | $14.99 | 15 min | 20+ |
| Costco (self-service print) | ~$0.17 | Same day | 15+ |
Option 1: Take Your Photo at Home
LA's abundant natural light makes it one of the best cities for taking passport photos at home. Open the Snap2Pass app, take a selfie near a window or outside against a white wall, and get an AI-validated passport photo instantly.
Then print at any nearby CVS or Walgreens:
- Print at CVS for $0.38 — same-day pickup
- Print at Walgreens for $0.39 — same-day pickup
Total cost: $5.37–$5.38 for 4 printed photos.
LA advantage: Southern California's natural daylight is ideal for passport photos. Step outside during the "golden hour" diffused period (overcast mornings) for even, shadow-free lighting.
Option 2: CVS Pharmacy ($16.99)
CVS has over 200 locations across LA County. Their full-service passport photo includes taking the photo and printing two 2x2 copies.
- Available at most locations during pharmacy hours
- Call ahead to confirm photo service availability
- Bring your own photo from Snap2Pass and print for just $0.38
Option 3: Walgreens ($16.99)
Walgreens locations are plentiful across LA, especially along major boulevards. Same $16.99 full-service price as CVS.
- Upload a Snap2Pass photo tile to walgreens.com for $0.39 prints
- Same-day pickup at your nearest location
Option 4: USPS Post Office ($15.00)
Many LA post offices offer passport photo services alongside passport application acceptance.
- Schedule passport appointments at usps.com
- Photo service may not be available at all hours — call ahead
- Convenient if you're applying for your passport at the same time
Option 5: FedEx Office ($14.95)
FedEx Office has 50+ locations across LA County, concentrated along Wilshire, Santa Monica, and in business districts.
- Two printed photos for $14.95
- Quick service during business hours
Option 6: Staples ($14.99)
Staples offers passport photos at $14.99 at locations with Copy & Print Centers. LA has about 20 Staples locations, though not all offer photo services.
Option 7: Costco Photo Center
Costco members can print 4x6 photos for about $0.17 each — the cheapest print option available. Upload your Snap2Pass photo tile, order online, and pick up at your nearest Costco.
Note: Costco does not take passport photos. You need to bring your own digital photo.
Where to Apply for a Passport in LA
Passport Acceptance Facilities:
- USPS post offices (by appointment)
- LA County Registrar-Recorder offices
- Various city clerk offices
LA Passport Agency (expedited service):
- Federal Building, 11000 Wilshire Blvd, West LA
- For travelers departing within 14 days
- Requires appointment through the State Department
- Expect long lines during peak travel season
LA-Specific Tips
- Use natural light — LA sunshine is great for passport photos. Shoot near a north-facing window or in open shade to avoid harsh shadows
- Avoid afternoon glare — Direct sunlight causes squinting and uneven lighting
- Traffic planning — Factor in LA traffic when choosing a location. Your nearest CVS or Walgreens may save an hour of driving compared to a post office across town
- Multiple documents — LA's diverse population often needs photos for international visas too. Snap2Pass covers 555+ document types including Indian visa, Chinese visa, and Vietnamese visa photos
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the cheapest place to get passport photos in LA?
The cheapest option is Snap2Pass ($4.99) with a Costco print ($0.17) for about $5.16 total. With CVS or Walgreens printing, the total is about $5.37. Full-service options range from $14.95 (FedEx) to $16.99 (CVS/Walgreens).
Can I get same-day passport photos in Los Angeles?
Yes. CVS, Walgreens, and FedEx Office all offer same-day passport photos as a walk-in service. Using Snap2Pass with online ordering at CVS or Walgreens gives you same-day pickup within about an hour.
Does the LA Passport Agency take passport photos?
The LA Passport Agency on Wilshire Blvd does not offer passport photo services. You must bring your own compliant photos to your appointment. Take your photos before arriving using Snap2Pass or a nearby CVS/Walgreens.
