US NY MTA Metrocard for Seniors 1.5x2 inch Photo Size Requirements for US (2025 Update)

Requirements

• Photo size: must be exactly 5 inches wide by 2 inches high, no trimming or border adjustments
• Head dimensions: top of hair to bottom of chin must measure between 1 inch and 1¼ inches in the photo
• Background: plain white or off-white, evenly lit with no patterns, shadows or textures
• Pose and framing: subject centered facing the camera directly with full face visible, eyes open and level
• Facial expression: neutral or natural smile, mouth closed, no exaggerated expressions
• Lighting and contrast: even illumination on face, no shadows, no over- or under-exposure, natural skin tones
• Image quality: high resolution (minimum 300 dpi), sharp focus, no pixelation, printed on quality photo paper (matte or glossy)
• Glasses: permitted if normally worn, must have clear lenses, no glare or reflections, frames must not cover eyes
• Headgear: not allowed except for daily religious use; must not obscure any facial features
• Attire: normal street clothes—no uniforms, camouflage patterns, or attire that blends into the background
• Photo age: taken within the last six months to reflect current appearance
• Attachment method: affix photo securely to application with non-metallic adhesive (glue stick or photo corners), no staples or tape visible

Step-by-Step Process

Content about US NY MTA Metrocard for Seniors 1.5x2 inch Photo Size Requirements for US - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Exact Photo Dimensions: Ensure your photo is precisely 5×2 inches with no extra borders or margins—MTA scanners reject images that aren’t the correct size, causing application delays.
• Correct DPI and Aspect Ratio: Shoot or scan at 300 dpi and lock the aspect ratio to 3:4 so printed photos match 5×2 inches exactly—resizing after printing often distorts facial proportions and leads to rejection.
• Proper Head Placement: Position the top of the head about 1/8 inch from the top edge and the chin about 3/8 inch above the bottom—if the face is too large or too small, the automated validation system will fail your photo.
• Plain, Light Background: Use a uniform white or off-white background with no patterns or shadows—busy or dark backgrounds can confuse the ID reader and result in your senior MetroCard being denied.
• Minimize Glare and Shadows: Remove tinted glasses, tilt frames down slightly, and ensure even front lighting—glare on lenses or harsh side shadows obscure facial features and often trigger photo retakes.

Conclusion

In summary, getting your Senior MetroCard photo right the first time saves you delays and ensures uninterrupted travel. Remember these core requirements for a 1.5″×2″ (38 × 51 mm) photo:

• Photo dimensions: exactly 5″ wide × 2″ tall
• Head size: between 0″ and 375″ from chin to crown
• Eye line: approximately 125″ from the bottom edge
• Background: plain white or off-white, no patterns or shadows
• Pose & expression: full-face, neutral expression, eyes open, mouth closed
• Attire & accessories: no hats, head coverings (unless for religious reasons), or tinted eyewear; prescription glasses OK if eyes are fully visible
• Print quality: high-resolution color on matte or glossy photo paper

By following these simple guidelines—correct sizing, clear framing, and proper background—you’ll meet NY MTA’s Senior MetroCard standards and avoid unnecessary rejections.