Italian boating licence photo (35×45 mm)

Understanding the Official Guidelines

The current D1 boating-licence application form includes a declaration about an attached photo, but does not state its dimensions^[1]. Other procedures may use different forms or local requirements.

The form does not set a photo size^[1]. A 35×45 mm crop (1.38×1.77 inches) is a practical estimate based on the common Italian passport-photo format.

Background and Frame Specifications

The form requires an attached photo but does not specify its size or background^[1]. A plain, neutral background is a practical choice.

The 35×45 mm size is the common Italian passport-photo crop used as a practical estimate^[1]. Position your face so that it sits nicely inside this frame. Since the head height is not set by the authority, keep a normal amount of space around your hair and chin.

Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step

You can take a suitable photo at home using a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Find a spot in your home that gets plenty of soft, natural daylight. Facing a large window works best because it lights your face evenly without creating harsh glares or dark shadows.

Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of trying to take a self-portrait. Hold the camera steady at your exact eye level. Stand about one to one and a half metres away from the lens to avoid distorting your facial features.

Look directly into the camera lens with a relaxed expression. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open wide. Remove hats and tinted glasses unless you wear them for medical or religious reasons.

Preparing Your File for Print

After you take a good picture, you need to crop it to the correct proportions. You can use the tool above to adjust your image to the 35×45 mm size. The tool helps you align your face correctly within the borders.

Once your crop is ready, the tool places the photo onto a standard 4×6-inch digital sheet. This layout lets you print your picture at home or at any commercial photo kiosk that accepts standard postcard-size paper files.

Printing Your Photo at a Kiosk

Submission is printed^[1], so you must produce a physical copy to attach to your paperwork. Save your 4×6-inch image sheet onto a USB drive or send it to your phone. Take the file to a local store with a photo kiosk.

Print the file at actual size without adding filters, borders, or colour corrections. Use standard matte or glossy photo paper. Once the print is ready, use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter to trim your 35×45 mm photo cleanly along the edges.

Confirming Details with Your Issuing Office

Local harbour offices or ministry branches may occasionally apply local rules or ask for specific paperwork additions. It is always wise to double-check your application packet before you submit it.

Check your printed photo to verify that the cut is straight and the image is clear. Keep in mind that the authority makes the final decision on acceptance. Preparing your copy ahead of time helps you finish your application quickly.

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

Applications often face delays if the attached photo does not meet practical standards. Blurry images, bad lighting, or shadows across your face are frequent causes for rejection. Make sure your face is sharply focused and well-lit.

Another common issue is incorrect cutting or sizing. If your photo is crooked or does not match the 35×45 mm proportions, the office might ask you to submit a new one. Take your time when trimming the edges from your printed sheet.