Get Your Icelandic International Driving Permit Photo Right
You need a specific photo size and format for your Icelandic international driving permit. Use this guide to prepare your printed photo correctly[1].
Official Size and Head Measurements
For an Icelandic international driving permit (Alþjóðlegt ökuskírteini), bring one 35×45 mm profile photo printed on photographic paper[1].
The head must measure 30–36 mm high in the photo[1].
This specific size requirement ensures your facial features are clearly documented for the District Commissioners of Iceland or FÍB when you apply in person[1].
Background and Lighting Setup
Use a light monochrome background[1].
For a practice photo, use even light and keep the camera steady.
Position yourself a short distance away from the background to avoid harsh shadows appearing behind your head. Natural light from a window facing you can work well, provided it is soft and balanced across your face.
Avoid bright or patterned backgrounds in your practice photo. The source specifies a light monochrome background[1].
Taking and Preparing Your Picture
For a practice photo, look toward the camera and check that your face is visible.
You can use the tool above to crop a practice image and arrange it on a sheet for printing.
Ask a helper to take the picture rather than trying to take a selfie. A selfie often distorts the proportions of your face because the camera is held too close, which makes your nose and forehead look larger than they actually are.
Keep your facial expression natural and keep your mouth closed while looking directly into the camera lens.
Taking the Photo at Home
You can take a practice photo at home before printing your permit photo.
Stand about one meter away from your light background to prevent shadows. Have your helper stand roughly two meters away from you with the camera lens at your exact eye level.
Keep your shoulders square and look straight ahead at the lens with a neutral facial expression.
For a practice photo, use even lighting and check for shadows behind your head.
Printing and Submission Rules
Bring one 35×45 mm profile photo printed on photographic paper[1].
The licensing office does not take the photo; bring your own printed photo[1].
Licensing offices do not take the photo, so bring your own printed photo[1].
Make sure you print enough copies so you have a backup in case you make a mistake while cutting out the dimensions.
Before You Go to the Office
Before visiting the office in person, check your printed copy with a physical ruler.
Measure from the tip of your chin to the top of your head to verify it falls between 30 and 36 millimeters[1].
Verify that the total paper size matches the required 35 by 45 millimeters and that the image is printed sharply on photographic paper[1].
Double-check that the edges are cut straight using a pair of sharp scissors or a paper cutter for a clean finish.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
A passport-system photo cannot be used for this permit[1].
Check that your printed photo measures 35×45 mm and meets the stated head-height requirement[1].
Use photographic paper for your printed photo[1].
The source does not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1].
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a digital photo file for my Icelandic international driving permit?
Bring one printed photo on photographic paper[1].
Can the licensing office take my photo for me?
Can I reuse my old passport photo?
A passport-system photo cannot be used for this permit[1].
What background color do I need?
You must use a light monochrome background behind you[1].
What is the exact photo size required?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimeters, with a head height between 30 and 36 millimeters from the chin to the top of the head[1].
Can I print multiple photos on a single sheet?
Yes, you can arrange your cropped 35x45 mm image onto a standard photo sheet using our tool, then cut them out carefully after printing on photographic paper.