Photo information for an Estonian international driving permit
Prepare a correct photo for your Estonian international driving permit by following the official size, lighting, and expression rules.
Size and dimension rules for your photo
The Transport Administration page does not publish a separate photo size for an international driving permit[1]. The 40×50 mm crop is a commonly used format for identity-document photos, not a published IDP requirement.
The Transport Administration page does not give a head-height measurement for an international driving permit photo[1].
You can use the tool above to crop an image to 40×50 mm, a common identity-document photo format.
Background and lighting requirements
The authority says the international driving permit uses the applicant’s identity-document photo[1][2]. The identity-document photo rules call for a flat, uniform, light-coloured background that contrasts with the face and hair[2].
For the best lighting results, try to stand facing a large natural light source like a window during daytime hours. Avoid harsh overhead lighting that creates dark shadows under your nose or chin.
If possible, ask another person to take the picture instead of trying to take a selfie, because a selfie often distorts your facial features and makes your head look too large. Keep the camera at your exact eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away from the lens.
Facial expression and posture
The identity-document photo rules require a neutral expression[2].
The identity-document photo rules require a closed mouth[2].
Your eyes must be wide open, fully visible, and looking directly into the camera lens. Avoid tilting your head up, down, or to either side so your face points straight ahead with your shoulders squared.
Rules for glasses and headwear
Glasses are allowed conditionally under the identity-document photo rules[2].
Most importantly, your glasses must not cause any light glare, and your eyes must remain clearly visible through the glass without obstruction from the frames.
The identity-document photo rules permit headwear for religious or medical reasons[2].
How to submit your photo
The authority says it uses the photo associated with the applicant’s Estonian driving licence or identity records[1][2].
The supplied official information gives no minimum or maximum file size for an uploaded photo.
The authority page does not list common photo rejection reasons.
Steps to prepare your photo at home
Taking your photo at home is simple if you follow a step-by-step routine. First, find a room with good natural lighting and set up your camera or smartphone on a tripod or stable surface at eye level.
Second, stand in front of a plain light-coloured wall that meets the contrast requirements. Third, take several test shots while keeping a neutral expression, closed mouth, and straight posture.
Fourth, review your photos to check your head height against the 35 to 40 mm requirement. Finally, open the tool above to crop your chosen photo to the 40×50 mm dimension and save the final digital file for your submission.
Common reasons photos are refused
Knowing why authorities reject pictures can save you time and frustration. The most frequent reason for refusal is incorrect head proportions, such as a head height that falls outside the 35 to 40 mm range[1].
Other common mistakes include smiling, having an open mouth, wearing tinted glasses, or casting shadows across the face due to poor lighting. Backgrounds that are too dark, textured, or patterned will also cause the authority to reject your image.
Checking these details before you submit your digital file greatly reduces the chance of rejection.
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for an Estonian international driving permit photo?
The authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for, which is typically 40×50 mm[1].
Can I wear glasses in my photo?
Glasses are conditional, meaning you may wear them only if they do not hide your eyes, block your vision, or create glare on the lenses[1].
What kind of background should I use?
You must use a flat, uniform, and light-coloured background that contrasts clearly with your face and hair[1].
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, and it must never cover any part of your face[1].
How do I submit the photo?
The submission method for the photo is digital[1].