Free Alternative
CVS Pharmacy Passport Photo — Is There a Better Option?
CVS Pharmacy charges $16.99 for 2 photos. Our free online tool creates the same compliant passport photos in under 60 seconds — from any device, with unlimited retakes and digital downloads.
CVS Pharmacy
$16.99 for 2 photos
A few minutes — faster than most competitors
~9,900 US locations
No digital copies — printed only
MergeImages.net
$0 — Free
Under 60 seconds
Any device, anywhere, 24/7
Instant digital + print sheet
Feature Comparison
| Feature | CVS Pharmacy | MergeImages |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $16.99 for 2 prints | Free — unlimited downloads |
| Digital copy | Not available | Instant digital download |
| Speed | A few minutes in-store | Under 60 seconds from any device |
| Print options | 2 printed copies | Print sheet — unlimited copies |
| Compliance | Staff visual check | 6-point AI compliance check |
| Countries | US passport only | 149+ countries |
About CVS Pharmacy Passport Photos
CVS is the most expensive of the major pharmacy chains for passport photos, but it is also the most widely available. With nearly 9,900 locations across the United States, there is almost certainly a CVS near you. Their photo kiosk system provides a more consistent experience than competitors that rely entirely on individual employee skill.
The biggest limitation is the same as Walgreens: $16.99 buys you exactly 2 printed photos with no digital copy. For travelers who need to submit a digital photo for an online visa application — which is increasingly common for countries like India (OCI), the UK, and Canada — CVS passport photos require an additional step.
A cost-effective approach: take your photo at home using a smartphone, use our free passport photo tool to crop it to the correct dimensions, and then print the 4×6 sheet at CVS Photo for about $0.50. You end up with more photos, a digital copy, and you save over $16.
CVS Pharmacy Pros
- Largest pharmacy chain — almost 10,000 locations
- Fast turnaround — photos usually ready in minutes
- Dedicated photo area (not just the pharmacy counter)
- Consistent process via digital kiosk system
CVS Pharmacy Cons
- Most expensive major chain at $16.99 for 2 photos
- No digital copies provided
- Photo area may be unmanned during quiet hours
- Must visit store in person
- Cannot choose your own background or adjust the photo
CVS Pharmacy Passport Photo FAQ
How much does a CVS passport photo cost?
CVS charges $16.99 for 2 printed passport photos. This makes it the most expensive major pharmacy chain for passport photos.
Is CVS or Walgreens cheaper for passport photos?
Walgreens is cheaper at $14.99 versus CVS at $16.99. However, both are significantly more expensive than taking your own photo and printing it using a free online tool.
Can I get digital passport photos at CVS?
No. CVS only provides 2 printed passport photos. For digital copies, you need to use an online passport photo tool and upload your own photo.
Compare Other Retailers
Skip the store. Get your photo free.
Upload a selfie, get a compliant passport photo in under 60 seconds. Print it at CVS Pharmacy for $0.35 or download the digital file.
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