To smile or not to smile
Kerri Thoreson's new passport and passport card, featuring a smileless photo.
Coutesy of KERRI THORESON
I’ve discovered something to add to the list of things I’m not good at, arguably a long list at this point. When instructed not to smile for a required photo for government-issued identification, I struggle. I suppose it’s not a bad thing that my default expression is a smile instead of a frown or scowl but the good people at the driver’s license bureau and the U.S. State Department passport office are firm on the no-smile rule.
This month, I renewed my passport, which was set to expire in early 2027. Renewals can now be completed 100% online, which is handy, as well as efficient. It also means you can take and upload a photo from your phone, as long as the photo meets the requirements, such as no visible teeth or even a closed-mouth smile that causes your cheeks to rise.
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