Getting Your Icelandic Driving Licence Photo Ready
When you apply for an Icelandic driving licence or study permit, you need to provide a clear photograph that meets official standards. Use the tool above to crop your picture to the correct size before you print or submit it.
Official Size and Submission Rules
The official size for your driving licence photo is 35×45 mm, which is about 1.38×1.77 inches[1]. First-licence and study permit applicants must bring one printed photo on photographic paper[1].
For some licence renewals or replacements, you might be able to reuse an existing Registry photo digitally[2]. The District Commissioners of Iceland issue these documents, and submission rules can vary depending on whether it is your first card or a replacement[1][2].
For some renewals or replacements, an existing Registry photo may be reused digitally[2]. Check the instructions for your application with the District Commissioner.
Background and Lighting Setup
You need a plain background for your photo, and current study permit guidance specifies white[1]. Stand directly in front of a plain white wall so there are no patterns, textures, or shadows behind you.
Make sure the light falls evenly across your front side. Facing a bright window gives you soft, natural light without creating harsh shadows under your nose or chin.
Avoid direct flash if it creates glare or uneven light in your practice photo.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Ask someone to take your practice photo if you want to avoid the close angle of a selfie.
For a practice photo, place the camera near eye level and look toward the lens.
Keep your shoulders square and your head straight. Do not tilt your head up, down, or to either side while the picture is being taken.
Framing and Head Details
The cited application page does not specify a head-height measurement[1].
You can use the tool to crop a practice image to 35×45 mm. The cited page does not specify head framing[1].
For a practice photo, check that your face is clear and visible.
Printing on a 4x6 Sheet
Since first-time applicants need a physical copy on photographic paper, you need to print your finished file correctly[1]. The tool on this page arranges your cropped 35×45 mm photo onto a standard 4x6-inch photo sheet.
Take this prepared sheet to a local photo kiosk and print it as an ordinary 4x6-inch photo on glossy or matte photographic paper. Do not change the scale or stretch the image when you send it to the printer.
Cut the photo carefully along the crop lines using a pair of sharp scissors or a paper cutter. Keep the edges straight and clean before you bring the paper copy to the district commissioner office.
Avoiding Refusal and Reapplication
For a study permit, the cited guidance calls for a plain background and a photo printed on photographic paper[1].
For a first licence or study permit, bring one 35×45 mm photo on photographic paper[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size does my Icelandic driving licence photo need to be?
The official size is 35×45 mm, which equals 1.38×1.77 inches[1].
Do I need a printed photo or a digital file?
What color should the background be?
You need a plain background, and current study permit guidance specifies white[1].
Does the authority set a specific head height rule?
The head height is not set by the authority for this specific document[1].
Who issues the Icelandic driving licence?
The District Commissioners of Iceland handle applications for driving licences and study permits[1].