French Driving Licence Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Get your French driving licence photo right by following the official rules for size, background, and submission. You can prepare your image easily with the tool above.
Official Size and Dimensions
When you apply for a French driving licence, your photograph must meet strict official dimensions set by the governing authorities. The official size required by the regulation is 35 by 45 millimeters, which translates to about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
The photo-system regulation sets this exact size for your application documents[1]. However, the official text does not set a specific numerical rule for head height in this particular provision[1]. Because of this missing measurement, you should keep your head centered naturally in the frame and fill a normal portion of the picture.
You can use the tool above to crop your picture to these exact dimensions before you print or submit it. Checking these measurements early helps you avoid simple mistakes that can delay your official application[2].
Background and Lighting
Your photo needs the correct background to pass inspection by the office reviewing your application. The photo-system regulation sets 35 by 45 millimeters but does not state background color in the cited provision[1].
The cited driving-licence photo regulation does not specify a background color[1]. Check the issuing office's instructions for the required background.
Good lighting helps your camera capture a clear picture without harsh shadows on your face or the wall behind you. Face a window with natural light or set up soft lamps in front of you so your face is evenly lit on both sides.
Glasses, Headwear, and Face Rules
Your facial features must be clearly visible on the image without any obstruction from accessories or clothing. Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, meaning they must not block your eyes and the frames must not be heavy or thick[1].
If your glasses create glare or reflections on the lenses, you should take them off for the picture. Tinted lenses, sunglasses, or thick frames that obscure your eyes are never allowed.
The cited driving-licence photo-system provision does not specify a headwear rule[1]. Check the issuing office's instructions.
Submission Methods and File Routes
Depending on the application route, you may provide a printed photo or use a digital photo-signature code[2].
Make sure you check which submission channel your specific application requires before you finalize your materials. Different online portals and local offices have their own intake rules for how you upload or attach the image file.
If you choose the printed route, you can place your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch template. This lets you print a sheet at a local photo kiosk for a very low cost.
How to Take Your Photo at Home
Taking your own photo at home saves time and money if you follow a few basic steps carefully. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying to take a selfie, because selfies distort your facial proportions.
Keep the camera at your exact eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Look straight into the camera lens with a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed.
Take several shots so you can pick the one with the best lighting and focus. Once you have a clear picture, upload it to the browser tool to crop it to the correct 35 by 45 millimeter size.
Printing Your Photo at a Kiosk
If your application accepts printed photographs, you can make a print sheet at home. Arrange your cropped 35 by 45 millimeter photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo layout.
Save this layout as a standard image file and put it on a USB flash drive or send it to your phone. Take it to a local retail store or photo kiosk that prints standard 4 by 6 inch pictures.
Print the sheet with a matte or glossy finish, making sure the store does not automatically crop or resize your image. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter to cut out the photo along the exact border lines.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a French driving licence photo?
The official size set by the authority is 35 by 45 millimeters, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
Can I wear glasses in my driving licence photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided they do not obscure your eyes and have no glare on the lenses[1].
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
The cited photo-system provision does not specify a headwear rule[1]. Check the issuing office's instructions.
How can I submit my photo?
You can submit your photo through both physical print and digital photo-signature code routes depending on how you apply[2].
What background color should I use?
The regulation sets the size but does not state the background color in that provision, though passport rules describe a plain light background and prohibit white[1].