Japanese Driver’s Licence Photo Guide
Get your Japanese driver’s licence photo right by following the official size and rules. Use the tool above to prepare your image before you print it.
Official Size and Layout Requirements
When an office asks you to supply a photo for a Japanese driver’s licence, the common size is 24 by 30 mm (about 0.94 by 1.18 inches). Photo rules and whether you may bring your own vary by procedure and prefecture[1][2].
Tokyo’s guidance shows about 3 mm of space above the head; the supplied facts do not establish a nationwide 2–4 mm rule[1]. The authority does not set a head-height measurement. Check your local office’s instructions before preparing a photo[1][2].
Where the Photo is Taken and Office Rules
Tokyo says staff take the driver’s licence photo there[1]. The photo-taking process varies by prefecture and procedure.
Whether you can bring your own photo varies by procedure and prefecture[1][2]. Check your local police prefecture’s instructions before preparing a print.
Background and Lighting Guidelines
Tokyo requires a background-free photo for the procedures covered by its guidance[1]. The supplied facts do not set a nationwide background color or rule for every procedure.
Stand a short distance away from the wall to prevent shadows from falling behind you. Good lighting is essential for a clear picture. Face a natural light source like a large window, or use soft indoor lamps to illuminate both sides of your face evenly. Avoid harsh overhead lights that create deep shadows under your eyes, nose, or chin.
Camera Setup and Positioning
Taking a good photo requires careful camera placement to avoid distortion. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level, rather than pointing it up or down at an angle.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you, as holding a camera at arm's length often distorts your facial features and ruins the proportions. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the lens. Make sure your upper body is clearly visible in the frame, matching the upper-body requirement[1].
Glasses, Headwear and Facial Appearance
Your photo must be front-facing so your face is fully visible to the examiner[1]. You must be bareheaded in the picture, though religious or medical headwear is permitted[1].
Tokyo says glasses must not prevent staff from identifying you; its examples include frames over the eyes or glare that hides them[1]. Follow your local office’s instructions.
Preparing and Printing Your Photo Sheet
If your local office accepts applicant-provided prints, check its instructions for the required size and print format[1][2].
Once you print the sheet at a local store or kiosk, use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper trimmer to cut out the photos along the exact lines. Make sure the final cut matches the 24 by 30 mm dimensions without any crooked edges. Double-check all requirements before you head to your appointment.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Tokyo lists examples of unsuitable photos, including photos where the face is unclear, too bright or dark, or partly obscured[1]. Check your local office’s criteria.
If your glasses obscure your eyes or reflect flash, the staff will turn the photo down. Taking your time to prepare the image correctly helps you avoid delays at the counter. Remember that the final decision always rests with the office staff.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Japanese driver's licence photo?
The common size for a submitted photo is 24 by 30 mm (0.94 by 1.18 inches).
Does the authority set a specific head height rule?
No, head height is not set by the authority.
What color should the background be?
The rules require a plain background, and no color is specified[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, but they must not obscure your identification[1].
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
You must be bareheaded, with exceptions only for religious or medical reasons[1].