Japanese International Driving Permit Photo Guide
Get the right photo for your Japanese international driving permit with clear size rules and simple steps. Prepare your print easily at home.
Official Size and Submission Rules
For example, Osaka requires one unframed 35 by 45 mm photo for an international driving permit application[1]. Check your prefecture’s instructions for its requirements.
Osaka requires a photo taken within the past six months[1]. Check your prefecture’s instructions for its photo rules.
The issuing offices strictly check your application materials before they issue the permit. Making sure your photo meets the basic size and age criteria helps you avoid extra trips to the office. Always check your local office guidelines if you have any questions about your paperwork.
Background and Lighting
Osaka requires a photo with no background[1].
To get a clean shot at home, stand in front of a plain, neutral wall in your house. Face a bright window to get even, natural light on your face without harsh shadows. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself.
Good lighting helps the office staff see your facial features clearly. Turn off flash if it causes bright glare or harsh shadows behind your head. Natural daylight from the front works best for a clear picture.
Head Height, Glasses, and Headwear
The official sources do not set a specific measurement for head height or position[1][2]. Keep your head centered in the frame with a normal, upright posture.
The supplied sources do not establish general rules for glasses or headwear for international driving permit photos[1][2]. Check your prefecture’s instructions.
Keep your facial expression natural and look straight ahead at the camera lens. Do not smile broadly or frown, and keep your mouth closed naturally. A neutral expression helps the staff match your face to your identification documents.
Taking Your Photo at Home
If your prefecture allows you to supply a photo, check its instructions before taking one at home.
Take a few test shots to check the lighting and your posture. Look at the screen to make sure your face is sharp and clear. Avoid tilting your head up or down too much.
After you snap the best picture, use the tool above to crop it to the exact 35 by 45 millimeter size. The tool runs right in your web browser, so your photo never leaves your device.
Printing Your Photo at a Kiosk
Osaka requires a printed photo with the application[1]. Check your prefecture’s submission instructions.
Save the finished sheet to your phone or a USB drive. Take it to a local photo kiosk or print shop and print it as an ordinary four by six inch photo on glossy photo paper.
Cut out the 35 by 45 millimeter picture carefully with sharp scissors using the border lines. Measure the cut photo with a small ruler to check that the dimensions are exact before you head to the office.
Common Reasons for Photo Refusal
Osaka requires a photo taken within the past six months[1]. Check your prefecture’s instructions for its criteria.
Osaka requires an unframed photo[1].
Osaka requires a 35 by 45 mm photo[1]. Check your prefecture’s instructions for its dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the photo for a Japanese international driving permit?
Osaka requires a 35 by 45 mm photo (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches)[1]. Check your prefecture’s instructions for its required size.
Can I use an old photo from last year?
Osaka requires a photo taken within the past six months[1]. Check your prefecture’s instructions.
Do I need a digital or printed photo?
Osaka requires a printed photo with the application[1]. Check your prefecture’s submission instructions.
Does the background have to be a specific color?
Osaka requires a photo with no background[1].