Preparing Your Greenland Driving Licence Photo
When you apply for a Greenland driving licence, you must submit a printed photo that meets official rules set by the police. The tool above can help you crop your picture to the right size before you print it.
Official Size Requirements
The Danish National Police photo rules specify a size of 35×45 mm (about 1.38×1.77 inches)[1]. Greenland’s public service page asks applicants to bring a suitable photo but does not state its dimensions[2].
Greenland’s public service page says to bring a suitable photo[2]. The Danish National Police photo rules give the 35×45 mm size[1].
The tool above can help you format your picture correctly. Take your time to measure the output before you send it in with your paperwork. Official documents require high precision, so checking your work saves time and prevents delays in getting your licence.
Head Position and Measurements
The distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head must be between 30 and 36 mm[1]. This head height rule helps keep your face the right size in the frame[1].
You should look straight ahead at the camera lens so your face points directly forward[1]. Keep your head straight and do not tilt it to the left, right, up, or down[1].
Position your shoulders squarely in front of the camera as well to maintain a balanced posture. Relax your facial muscles so you do not accidentally pull a strained expression while trying to stay still.
Background and Lighting
You must use a uniform, light-coloured background, such as light blue or light grey[1]. If you have light hair or a light-coloured headscarf, you need to use strong contrast against the background[1].
Stand in a well-lit space so dark shadows do not fall on your face or the wall behind you. Face a window or place a soft light source in front of you to get an even, bright look.
Avoid strong overhead lights that cast harsh shadows under your nose and chin. A plain wall without patterns or textures works best for this purpose.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1]. Do not smile, frown, smirk, or open your mouth when the picture is taken[1]. Keep your eyes wide open and looking directly at the camera lens.
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, but heavy frames, thick rims, or tinted lenses can cause your photo to be refused[1].
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, and your face must be fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, along with the outer edges of your face[1]. Make sure no hair falls across your eyes or obscures your facial features.
Children and Infants
If you are taking a photo for a child, the same general rules apply because no separate infant-specific rules are found[1]. Getting a neutral expression and closed mouth on a small child can be tricky, so you may need to take several pictures to get it right.
Keep the background plain and light-coloured just like an adult photo[1]. Have the child sit on a plain light sheet or hold them carefully while keeping your hands out of the final frame.
Patience is key when photographing young applicants for official documents. Try to catch the child when they are calm and rested.
Printing Your Photo Sheet
Greenland’s public service page asks applicants to bring a suitable photo[2]. The Danish National Police photo rules specify 35×45 mm[1].
Print this sheet at a local photo kiosk on ordinary glossy or matte photo paper. Cut out the 35x45 mm picture carefully using scissors or a paper cutter before you submit your application papers[2][3].
Make sure the edges are straight and clean so the office can handle the physical card easily. Keep the print clean and free of fingerprints or smudges.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The police can refuse your driving licence photo if the head height is outside the 30 to 36 mm range[1]. Other common reasons for rejection include a visible smile, an open mouth, or wearing dark sunglasses[1].
Shadows on your face, red eye effects, or a background that is too dark or patterned will also cause the issuing office to reject your picture[1].
Check every detail against the official standards before you print your photo sheet. Double-checking saves you from extra trips to the photographer or police station.
Frequently asked questions
What size does my Greenland driving licence photo need to be?
Your photo must measure 35x45 mm, with a head height between 30 and 36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].
Can I wear glasses in my driving licence photo?
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, but they must not hide your eyes, and heavy frames or tinted lenses can cause your photo to be refused[1].
Can I smile in the photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1].
What kind of background should I use?
You must use a uniform, light-coloured background, such as light blue or light grey[1].
Do I need a printed photo or a digital file?
You must supply a printed, scannable portrait photo for your driving licence application[1].