No Eyeglasses Allowed In New U.S. Passport Photos
WASHINGTON (CBSNewYork) -- Customers applying for or renewing passports may no longer wear glasses in their passport photos.
The State Department said as of Tuesday, Nov. 1, the rule is no glasses allowed.
Officials said last year, more than 200,000 passport applicants submitted poor-quality photos that were not accepted, and glasses were the greatest problem.
The passport applications ended up going on hold because the State Department could not clearly identify the applicants based on the photos.
If you're wearing glasses in an unexpired passport photo, you do not have to apply for a new passport. But you must take your glasses off next time you renew.
Those who must wear glasses for medical reasons must obtain and submit a signed statement from a doctor or health practitioner.
