Preparing Your Swiss Driving Licence Photo
A Swiss driving licence includes a portrait photo. The Federal Roads Office does not publish a separate photo size for it[1].
Official Size and Dimensions
The Federal Roads Office confirms that the Swiss driving licence carries a portrait photo, but it does not publish a separate photo size[1]. Cantonal offices handle applications, and photo submission requirements vary by canton.
A 35 by 45 millimetre crop (1.38 by 1.77 inches) is commonly used in practice for Swiss identity photos. Check your canton’s requirements before applying.
Head Height and Framing
For the common crop described here, the suggested head height is 29 to 34 millimetres, from chin to top of head.
Measure from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, excluding hair that rises above your skull. Keep your face near the centre of the frame.
Background Details
The Federal Roads Office confirms that the licence carries a portrait photo but gives no separate driving-licence photo dimensions[1]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a common Swiss identity-photo format used in practice.
Use a plain, light-coloured background if possible, with no distracting objects or strong shadows.
Expression, Glasses, and Head Coverings
Use a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed.
The federal information provided here does not specify rules for glasses or headwear. Ask your cantonal road traffic office what it requires.
Submission and Cantonal Offices
Cantonal road traffic offices handle driving licence applications. Check with your canton about how to submit your photo.
Photo submission requirements depend on your canton. Check with your cantonal office to find out whether it requires a paper photo or accepts a digital one.
Taking and Printing Your Photo at Home
For an at-home photo, face a bright window for even lighting. Ask someone to hold the camera at eye level, about one to one and a half metres away.
You can use the tool above to crop your picture to 35 × 45 mm and place it on a 4 × 6 inch sheet. Print the sheet as a photo print, then cut out the photo.
Before You Go to the Office
Before applying, check your canton’s instructions for required documents and how to submit your photo.
If using the common 35 × 45 mm crop, check its dimensions and the suggested 29–34 mm chin-to-top-of-head framing. Confirm your canton’s requirements before submitting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
For a straightforward portrait, keep your head upright and shoulders level.
Choose clothing that does not distract from your face, and use even lighting to reduce shadows.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Swiss driving licence photo?
The Federal Roads Office confirms that the licence has a portrait photo but publishes no separate photo size for it[1]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is commonly used for Swiss identity photos.
Can I wear glasses in my driving licence photo?
Glasses are conditionally allowed. Check with your canton for its requirements.
Who issues the Swiss driving licence?
Cantonal road traffic offices issue the licence and handle applications. Photo submission requirements vary by canton.
Can I smile in the photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed.
How far away should the camera be when taking the picture?
For an at-home photo, place the camera at eye level about one to one and a half metres away.