Colombian Driving Licence Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Learn the standard dimensions and official procedures for your Colombian driving licence photo before you apply.
Understanding Official Size Standards
The Ministry of Transport and local traffic authorities manage driving licences in Colombia[1][2]. The authority publishes no single official size for the driver's licence photo in its core regulations[1][2].
The authority does not publish a single photo size for the driving licence. A 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) crop is a common practice size for a portrait image. Check with your local traffic office if you need to know what it expects.
Knowing these common dimensions helps you prepare a properly proportioned portrait image for personal use or rehearsal[1][2]. Preparing ahead gives you confidence when you attend your local appointment[1][2].
Where the Photo Is Captured
The official photograph is captured during enrolment at the RUNT and recognition process, and it is printed directly on the physical driving licence[1][2].
This means the official image is typically taken on site by the authority rather than submitted as a pre-printed photograph from home[1][2]. Understanding this workflow helps you know what to expect when you visit the designated office for your licence[1][2].
The official photo is captured during enrollment, so you do not need to bring a finished print[1][2].
Background and Lighting Conditions
No separate photo size or background is published for the driver's licence by the national authority[1][2]. However, taking your practice photos against a plain, neutral wall helps create a clear portrait for personal review[1][2].
Good lighting makes your facial features visible without casting harsh shadows on your skin or behind your head[1][2]. Face a soft natural light source, such as a large window, to get even illumination across your face[1][2].
Avoid harsh overhead lights that create dark circles under your eyes or strange highlights on your forehead[1][2].
Head Height and Facial Details
The head height is not set by the authority in the official regulations[1][2]. You should frame your face naturally within the frame if you are preparing a practice image at home[1][2].
Glasses and headwear are listed as unspecified by the official guidelines[1][2]. It is always wise to check current local office policies regarding any facial accessories or head coverings before you attend your enrolment appointment[1][2].
Staff members at the traffic office can also advise you on local preferences if you have questions about what to wear on your appointment day[1][2].
Taking a Practice Photo at Home
If you want to practise taking a portrait at home, ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you[1][2]. Keep the camera at your exact eye level and stand about one to one and a half metres away from the lens[1][2].
Avoid using the front-facing selfie camera, because it can distort your facial proportions and angles[1][2]. A rear camera produces a much more accurate representation of your true appearance[1][2].
Taking multiple test shots allows you to review your posture and expression before you finalise any practice crop[1][2].
Using the Tool for Practice
You can use the tool above to crop a practice photo to 35 × 45 mm.
While the official photo is captured during enrolment at the RUNT and recognition process[1][2], preparing a practice copy helps you see how you might look in a standard portrait format[1][2].
This lets you test different crops and check your lighting before you go[1][2]. It is a simple way to get familiar with portrait sizing right from your home computer or mobile device[1][2].
Preparing for Your Visit
Reviewing your appearance ahead of time helps you feel prepared for your visit[1][2]. Even though the final image happens on site during the official procedure, having a clear idea of your presentation is always helpful[1][2].
Keep your shoulders straight and maintain a calm, relaxed posture when you practise your portrait framing[1][2]. These small habits make a big difference in how comfortable you feel during the official traffic office appointment[1][2].