Barbados International Driving Permit Photo Guide
Learn about the photo requirements for your Barbados International Driving Permit and how to prepare your images at home.
Photo Size and Dimensions
The government page says applicants for an International Driving Permit must provide two passport-size photographs for the permit book[1]. It does not give photo dimensions[1].
The authority does not specify dimensions. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a practical passport-photo size, but check with the Licensing Authority before printing. Two passport-size photos are used in the permit book[1].
Check the photo size with a ruler before printing, and confirm the size with the Licensing Authority.
Taking the Photo at Home
Taking your picture at home gives you complete control over your appearance and lets you test different angles. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera to avoid facial distortion.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of holding the camera at arm length. Set the camera lens at your exact eye level.
Background and Lighting
The authority asks for passport-size photographs but gives no background or colour specification[1]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a practical option, not a stated authority requirement.
Try to stand in front of a plain, solid wall to keep the visual focus entirely on you. Good lighting helps your picture turn out clear and sharp. Face a bright window to get natural light on your face without creating harsh shadows behind you.
Avoid standing directly under heavy ceiling lights because dark shadows can form under your eyes and nose.
Glasses and Headwear
The government page does not specify rules for glasses[1]. If you wear them in a practice photo, avoid glare that hides your eyes.
The government page does not specify rules for headwear[1].
If you wear glasses, check that glare does not hide your eyes.
Expression and Pose
The government page does not specify an expression for the permit photo[1].
For a practice photo, keep your head straight and look at the camera. A helper can take the photo from eye level to avoid selfie distortion.
Look straight into the lens with a natural posture. Relax your facial muscles so you look like your everyday self.
Printing and Submission
The government page says two passport-size photographs are used in the permit book[1]. It does not describe a digital upload process.
The source calls for two printed passport-size photos but does not specify paper type or where to print them. If you use a 35 × 45 mm crop, you can arrange it on a 4 × 6-inch sheet for printing.
Cut along the outer edges of your crop lines carefully using clean scissors or a paper trimmer to get neat edges.
Preparing Your Photo
You can use the tool above to prepare a 35 × 45 mm practice crop for printing. The authority does not specify photo dimensions, so confirm the size before printing.
Check the photo’s size with a ruler before cutting it out.
Common Reasons for Photo Rejection
The government page does not list reasons for rejecting photos[1]. Use a clear, well-lit photo and confirm the requirements with the authority.
Check that the print is clear and neatly cut before submitting it.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a Barbados International Driving Permit?
The government page asks for passport-size photos but does not give dimensions[1]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a practical option; confirm the size with the authority.
How many photos must I submit?
Two passport-size photographs are used in the permit book[1].
Who issues the International Driving Permit in Barbados?
The government page says the motor licensing authority issues International Driving Permits to Barbados citizens[1].
Are glasses allowed in the photo?
Glasses are unspecified by the official source[1].
Can I print the photo at a kiosk?
Yes, you can arrange your cropped photos on a 4x6-inch sheet to print at a kiosk for physical submission[1].
Where can I submit my application and photos?
The government page indicates that applications go through the Barbados Licensing Authority[1].