Official error · US online passport renewal
US passport renewal photo error: “Your mouth may be open”
“Your mouth may be open” means the US online passport renewal thinks your expression isn't neutral, usually an open mouth or a big smile. Retake the photo with your mouth closed and a relaxed, neutral face. The message itself says you can still use the photo if you can't meet the rule for religious or medical reasons, or if you believe the result is wrong.
The exact message
Your mouth may be openWhat the message says
Make sure your expression is neutral and natural, and your mouth is closed. You can use this photo if:
- You can’t meet the rules for religious or medical reasons.
- You believe the reason for the results is incorrect.
Unlike most photo errors on the renewal site, this one lets you continue with the same photo in those two cases. The photo is still reviewed when your application is processed.
Why it happens
- Your lips are parted or you’re about to speak.
- A wide smile that shows your teeth.
- The automatic check misreads a beard, a moustache or lip shape as an open mouth.
How to fix it
- Close your mouth and relax your face: a neutral expression, or at most a faint natural smile with your lips together.
- Look straight at the camera with both eyes open.
- Take several shots and pick the most neutral one.
- If your mouth really was closed, you can choose to use the photo, as the message allows, or retake it in better light to give the check a clearer view.
Before you try again
IDPlain’s free checker measures whether your mouth is closed and your eyes are open, on your device, before you upload.
Our free checker catches this before you upload
- Mouth closed
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IDPlain is not affiliated with the US online passport renewal. Messages are quoted so you can recognise them; the official system has the final say.