Hong Kong international driving permit photo (40×50 mm)

Official Size and Submission Formats

The required photo size is 40 by 50 mm, or about 1.57 by 1.97 inches^[1]. The photo must show your full face^[1].

For a paper application, submit two identical, new and recent photos^[2]. For an online application, upload a JPG or JPEG photo no larger than 10 MB^[2][3].

For an online application, prepare a digital photo. For an application by post or at a counter, prepare two printed photos.

Background and Lighting Requirements

Use a plain background; the authority does not specify a colour^[1].

To achieve good lighting, try to face a bright window during the daytime. Natural light makes your skin tone look natural and stops harsh shadows from forming. Avoid standing directly under ceiling lights because they create dark circles under your eyes and heavy shadows behind your head.

Stand about one meter away from the background wall to reduce shadows. Have a helper take the picture from a few feet away rather than stretching your arm for a selfie, because arm length can distort your facial proportions.

Headwear, Glasses, and Facial Appearance

The photo must be taken without headwear^[1].

The cited photo requirements do not specify rules for glasses or facial expression^[1]. However, it is always smart to keep your eyes clear and visible.

Brush your hair away from your forehead and eyes so officials can see your full facial structure. Wear standard, everyday clothing that contrasts with your background so you do not blend into the wall.

How Photos Are Taken and Application Methods

Photo submission depends on the application method^[2].

At a self-service kiosk, your photo is taken during the application, and you do not need to provide one^[2]. Paper applications require two identical, recent photos^[2]. Online applications require a JPG or JPEG upload^[2].

If you visit a self-service kiosk, you do not need to bring any printed pictures or digital files. The machine guides you through the capture process on the spot.

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo at Home

The photo must have a plain background^[1].

Crop the image to 40 by 50 mm^[1].

Set your camera or smartphone at eye level on a stable surface or tripod. Look straight ahead into the camera lens with a neutral posture. Take multiple shots so you have options to choose from. Verify that the top of your shoulders and your entire head fit comfortably inside the frame before you stop shooting.

Preparing and Printing Your Photo Sheet

For a paper application, submit two identical, new and recent photos^[2].

Submit two identical, recent photos with your paper application^[2].

If you print your pictures at home, load high-quality glossy or matte photo paper into your printer. Print the sheet at one hundred percent scale without any automatic page fitting. Use a metal ruler and a sharp utility knife or scissors to cut along the lines carefully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Watch out for digital filters or heavy touch-ups that alter your skin tone or face shape. The authority needs a true likeness of your appearance.

Check that your digital file size stays below the maximum limit of 10 megabytes for online uploads^[2][3]. If your file is too large, compress it slightly or adjust the export settings on your image editor before you upload it to the portal.