Finnish driving licence photo (36×47 mm)

Official Size and Dimensions

The official size for a Finnish driving licence photo is 36 by 47 millimetres, which translates to about 1.42 by 1.85 inches^[1]. These precise dimensions are set by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency, known as Traficom^[1]. When you format your picture, every millimetre counts to meet the standard.

Your head height must measure between 32 and 36 millimetres from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head^[1][2]. Additionally, the top margin above your head must stay between 4 and 6 millimetres^[2]. If your head is too small or too large inside the frame, the application authority will reject the image.

Background and Lighting Requirements

You must use a uniform light background for your driving licence application photo^[1]. The authority recommends a uniform light background with light grey recommended to provide high contrast and clarity^[1]. Avoid patterned walls, textured wallpaper, or dark backdrops.

Good lighting is essential for a clear photograph. Face a soft and even light source, such as a large window, to illuminate your face evenly. Turn off your camera flash to prevent harsh shadows, shiny skin spots, and red eyes.

Facial Expression and Headwear Rules

The police photo instructions require a neutral expression, a closed mouth, and eyes open and clearly visible^[2].

Glasses are allowed conditionally, but heavy frames must not obscure your eyes^[1]. Tinted glasses and dark lenses are strictly prohibited unless you require them for documented medical reasons^[1]. Headwear is not permitted except for religious or medical reasons, and even then, it must not cast shadows or hide any part of your face^[1].

Submission Rules and File Limits

Finnish driving licence applications can rely on a photo already stored in official records if you apply online^[1]. If you choose to submit your application in person, you generally need to bring two physical passport photos^[1]. Traficom may reuse a suitable photo from a valid passport, identity card, or existing official records if available^[1][3].

Traficom says photo-studio retrieval codes cannot be used for driving licence applications^[1].

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo

You can take your own photo at home with a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of using the front-facing camera. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level to avoid awkward facial angles.

Stand about one to one and a half metres away from the camera to prevent distortion. Step slightly away from your light background to prevent casting dark shadows on the wall behind you. Once you capture a clear shot, you can use the tool above to crop your image.

The printed photo should measure 36 by 47 mm^[2].

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

Follow the police photo instructions for head position, expression, and lighting^[2]. Keep your face and eyes visible; both ears do not have to show^[2].

Shadows under your chin or across your eyes will also lead to rejection. Check that your glasses do not reflect light if you decide to wear them. Review all official guidelines carefully and double-check your measurements before final submission.

Using Your Printed Photos

If you need physical copies for an in-person visit, you can print your cropped image onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet. You can take this sheet to any local photo printing kiosk to produce standard physical prints. Cut the printed photos carefully along the edges to match the exact dimensions required by the issuing office.