German Driving Licence Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Get your German driving licence photo right by following the official size, background, and facial rules before you visit the local authority.
Official Size and Submission Rules
For a German driving licence application, the photo must measure 35×45 mm (about 1.38×1.77 inches)[1][2]. Submit a printed photo to your local driving licence authority[1]. You can use the tool above to crop it to size.
While the size is strictly set to 35×45 mm, the official regulations do not set a specific measurement for head height or top margins for this specific licence photo[1][2]. Even though specific millimeter measurements for the head are not provided by the rules, your face should still be centered clearly in the frame. Keep your shoulders square and look directly forward so the camera captures your face in a natural, straightforward position.
Background and Lighting Standards
Your photo must satisfy the PassV biometric photo requirements, which include a uniform, light, neutral background[2]. You should find a plain white or light grey wall in your home to use as a backdrop. Avoid any textured wallpaper, patterned curtains, or colourful decorations behind you. A uniform background helps the local authority scan and process your application without technical issues.
Lighting plays a major role in meeting the background rules. Stand a little bit away from the wall so your body does not cast a dark shadow behind you. Face a large window with natural daylight, or set up two soft lights on either side of you for even illumination. Avoid harsh overhead lights that create heavy shadows under your eyes, nose, or chin.
Facial Expression and Mouth Rules
Your photo must show a neutral facial expression[2]. Keep your face relaxed and avoid exaggerated expressions.
Your mouth must be closed completely when the camera captures the image[2]. Do not smile, smirk, or part your lips. Keep your teeth hidden behind closed lips. This rule helps the biometric software verify your facial features accurately when your application is processed.
Glasses and Eye Visibility
Wearing glasses in your driving licence photo is subject to conditional rules[2]. If you wear prescription eyeglasses every day, you are generally allowed to keep them on as long as they meet strict visibility criteria. Your eyes must be completely open and clearly visible through the lenses.
Make sure your eyes remain clearly visible through your glasses and that the lenses do not create glare[2].
Head Coverings and Religious Rules
Head coverings are permitted only for religious or medical reasons[2]. If you wear a head covering daily for these specific reasons, you may keep it on during the photo session. However, your face must remain fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.
The head covering must not cast any shadows onto your face, and the edges of your face from your jawline to your temples must be completely clear. Everyday hats, caps, beanies, or fashion headbands are not allowed for official identity documents.
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
You can easily take a compliant photo at home by following a few simple steps. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of attempting a handheld selfie, because selfies distort facial proportions and viewing angles. Have the person holding the camera stand about one to one and a half meters away from you.
Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level. Position yourself facing the light source so your face is brightly and evenly lit. Take several test shots to check your expression, mouth closure, and background before choosing the best one. Once you have a clear picture, you can use the tool above to crop it to the 35×45 mm size.
Printing Your Photo on a 4×6 Sheet
Because the application requires a printed submission, you must transfer your finished photo onto paper[1]. A convenient way to do this is to arrange your cropped 35×45 mm image onto a standard 4×6-inch digital photo template. This lets you fit your official photo onto ordinary photo paper alongside a few spare copies.
Take your finished 4×6-inch image file to a local printing kiosk, photo shop, or drugstore with a photo printer. Print it out on standard glossy or matte photo paper just like an ordinary vacation picture. Once printed, use scissors or a paper cutter to trim the photo carefully to the exact 35×45 mm dimensions before taking it to the Fahrerlaubnisbehörde.
Frequently asked questions
Can I smile in my German driving licence photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral facial expression and your mouth must be closed completely[2].
What background colour do I need for the photo?
You need a uniform, light, neutral background that satisfies PassV biometric photo requirements[2].
Can I wear my glasses in the photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided your eyes are fully visible without glare or heavy frames blocking them[2].
Do I need to print the photo or can I submit it online?
You must submit a physical, printed copy of your photo to your local driving licence authority[1].