History
How do you look for an early US passport photograph?
A National Archives guide explains which dates and application details help locate passport files that contain applicant photographs.
NARA holds passport applications through March 31, 1925. Its ordering guide identifies photographs in applications dated December 21, 1914, through March 31, 1925. Begin with the applicant’s name and issue date; an application number is useful when available.
If those details are missing, the guide recommends a birth year
If those details are missing, the guide recommends a birth year, residence at the time and an approximate travel year. Researchers can consult original volumes or send a written request, and should explicitly state that they want a copy of the applicant photograph.
Evidence: Archival research guide
This is a research route, not a searchable gallery
This is a research route, not a searchable gallery, and it cannot guarantee that every file or image survives. For later applications, the guide directs researchers to the State Department.
Evidence: Archival research guide · Archival research guide
Searching passport records before the Photomaton era
The documents offer a way to study portrait conventions before the Photomaton era. Start with the date range before searching: the National Archives guide covers early applications through March 1925, and directs later research elsewhere. Include alternate spellings and approximate travel dates when exact details are unknown. The image request should be explicit, because a file reference alone may return documents without making clear that a portrait copy is wanted.
Evidence: Archival research guide
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- US National Archives — Ordering passport applicationsArchival research guide
- US National Archives — Passport applications, 1795–1925Archival research guide