Austrian driving licence photo (35×45 mm)
Get your Austrian driving licence photo right by following official rules for size, background, and appearance.
Official Size and Application Details
When you apply for your Austrian driving licence, officially called the Scheckkartenführerschein, you must provide a physical portrait photo[1]. The official size required for this document is 35×45 mm[1]. Official government guidance specifies that your picture should, if possible, follow standard passport-photo criteria[1][2].
The linked passport photo criteria set a maximum head height of 36 mm[2]. Submit the photo as instructed by the driving licence authority[1].
Background Requirements and Lighting
If possible, follow the passport photo criteria: use a plain, light background, preferably grey, with no pattern and enough contrast with your face and hair[1][2].
Lighting is equally important to make sure your face is clearly visible. Stand facing a bright window to get soft, even natural light across your features. Avoid harsh overhead lights that cast deep shadows under your nose or chin. Turn off your camera flash to prevent bright white spots or reflections on the wall behind you.
Facial Expression and Mouth Rules
If possible, follow the passport photo criteria: use a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed[1][2].
If you follow the passport photo criteria, look directly at the camera with your eyes open and visible[2].
Glasses, Head Coverings, and Hair
If possible, follow the passport photo criteria for glasses: your eyes must remain visible, and tinted lenses, sunglasses, and reflections are not allowed[2].
If possible, follow the passport photo criteria: head coverings are allowed for religious or medical reasons, and must not hide your face or cast shadows[2].
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
You can easily take a valid photo at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Do not take a selfie because holding the camera at arm's length distorts your facial features and proportions. Instead, ask a friend or family member to take the photo for you.
Position the camera at your exact eye level, maintaining a distance of about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Center your head and shoulders inside the frame, leaving a small, even border around your upper body. Take several test shots to check your lighting and posture before selecting the best one. You can then use the tool above to crop your chosen image down to the precise 35×45 mm dimensions.
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
The application requires a portrait photo[1]. Confirm the required print format with the licensing authority before preparing it.
Check that your printer scale is set to one hundred percent so the image does not stretch or shrink during printing. Carefully cut out the printed photograph along the exact edges using a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter. Bring your finished printed portrait to the Führerschenbehörden when you file your application[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size must my Austrian driving licence photo be?
The official size required for the Austrian driving licence is 35×45 mm[1].
Can I wear glasses in my driving licence photo?
What kind of background do I need?
Do I need a printed photo or a digital file?
You must submit a physical printed photo to the Austrian driving licence authorities[1].