Applying for a certified welding license in the United States? Whether you're submitting documents to the American Welding Society (AWS) or a local training institution, you’ll likely need to attach a 2x2 inch (51x51 mm) professional photo with your application. With PhotoGov, you can create this photo at home using your phone. Our platform crops, resizes, enhances, and formats your image according to official US ID photo standards — so your welding certification application goes smoothly and without rejections.
Source: official website www.aws.org
Converts any image to 2x2 inches (51x51 mm)
Removes shadows and replaces backgrounds with white
Enhances contrast and sharpness for professional clarity
Download for online upload or print at home or local shop
Fully compliant with U.S. certificate and license photo rules
Most welding certification programs — including those from AWS — follow U.S. ID photo standards. That means your photo must meet specific size, background, and appearance guidelines.
Size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
Resolution | Minimum 300 DPI |
Image Format | JPEG or PNG |
File Size | Typically under 1 MB |
Background Color | Plain white or very light gray |
Printable | Yes – needed for in-person applications |
Online Submission | Accepted by many trade schools and AWS portals |
Expression | Neutral; no smiling or exaggerated expressions |
Clothing | No uniforms; wear solid dark clothes for contrast |
Glasses | Not recommended; no glare or tinted lenses if worn |
Accessories | No hats, earphones, jewelry, or tools visible |
Select Document Type
Choose “USA Welding Certificate – 2x2 inch” on PhotoGov.net
Take the Photo
Use your phone or camera. Stand 1.5–2 meters away from a white wall in a well-lit room
Upload for Processing
Submit your photo — we’ll handle cropping, sizing, and background correction
Auto Enhancement
Our tool sharpens image quality and adjusts brightness and tone automatically
Download and Submit
Save your photo in JPEG or PNG format for uploading or printing
Lighting: Face a window for soft daylight; avoid shadows on the face or background
Framing: Use a tripod or stable surface. Keep your head centered and shoulders even
Clothing: Choose darker, solid colors. Avoid white, logos, or uniforms
Avoid Filters: No retouching or beauty effects. Your face should appear natural and unaltered
No Selfie Angles: Ask someone to take the picture or use a timer
If you don’t want to go through the trouble and expense of locating and hiring a professional photographer to take your picture, you can simply take your own from home. So long as you follow the below instructions carefully, you can capture the perfect welding certificate photo yourself:
Open up the PhotoGov.net photo service and take your picture. Make sure you’re not wearing any headcovers or glasses, do not wear a uniform, and keep your expression neutral. Ensure that the area is well-lit and that you are standing against a neutral background.
Watch "How to take a photo" (00:46)
Next, upload your image and process it through our site.
Finally, you can download your ID photo. These images can be printed off, or you can simply use them as digital photos.
Using passport-size (35x45 mm) instead of 2x2 inches
Smiling or head tilt
Wearing work clothes with logos or safety gear
Shadows or uneven lighting
Visible accessories or obstructed face
Low resolution or blurry image
PhotoGov detects and corrects these mistakes automatically.
What size is required for a USA welding certificate photo?
Can I wear my welding uniform in the photo?
Can I smile or wear glasses?
Can I use my selfie?
Is the photo needed in print or digital format?
What if my photo is rejected?
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