Getting Your Dutch Driving Licence Photo Right
You need a clear photo that meets official rules when you apply for your Dutch driving licence. This guide explains the exact measurements and submission steps you must follow.
Official Size and Head Measurements
Your photo must measure exactly 35 by 45 millimetres, which equals 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. These dimensions are standard for official identification documents across the country. When you check your image proportions, make sure the entire frame matches these exact physical measurements. Always verify your print settings to prevent accidental scaling changes that alter these numbers.
For applicants aged 11 and over, the distance from the chin to the crown must be 26 to 30 millimetres[1].
Background Requirements and Lighting Setup
You must use a plain, uniform light grey, light blue or white background; the official source does not specify exact shades[1]. Stand against a completely blank wall to avoid any background patterns, textures, or distracting objects in the frame. Keep the surface clean and free of marks.
Position your light sources evenly so your face receives balanced illumination without dark spots or harsh shadows. Natural light from a large window works best if you do not have studio equipment available. Good lighting helps the issuing authority verify your features clearly without any distortion. Avoid standing too close to the wall, as this creates an unwanted shadow directly behind your head.
Facial Expression and Head Position
You must look directly into the camera lens with a neutral expression and your mouth firmly closed[1]. Do not smile, laugh, or frown, because your natural resting facial structure must remain visible. Keep your lips pressed together naturally without puckering.
Keep your head straight and level, aligning your face squarely with the camera lens. Even a slight tilt can throw off the vertical balance and cause the issuing clerk to reject the photo. Relax your jaw and keep your eyes open and alert.
Rules for Glasses and Headwear
You may wear glasses if your eyes remain fully visible, the lenses are transparent, and reflections do not distort your eyes[1].
You may wear a head covering for religious or belief reasons, or to cover hair loss caused by medical treatment. It must be a single colour and shade[1]. Your face must remain fully visible[1].
Special Regulations for Children and Infants
Photographing younger applicants requires careful attention to adjusted sizing guidelines. Government photo rules give a 19 to 30 millimetres chin-to-crown range for applicants under 11 years old[1]. This smaller scale accommodates growing proportions for kids.
Furthermore, children under 6 years old benefit from relaxed expression and pose requirements because babies cannot hold a rigid pose[1]. You can place a small infant on a plain light background sheet and take the photo from directly above while keeping the camera steady. Make sure the child's face is fully visible in the frame during capture.
Submission Options and File Limits
For a standard application, take a printed photo to your municipality. For an eligible online renewal, an RDW photographer or approved photo booth sends the digital photo to the RDW[2][3].
For an online renewal, an RDW photographer or approved photo booth sends a JPEG photo measuring 901 by 1158 pixels. The maximum file size is 170 kilobytes[2].
Preparing Your Photo at Home and Printing
You can take your photo at home by setting up a camera at eye level about one to one and a half metres away from your face. Face a bright window for soft natural light and ask someone else to take the picture. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct official dimensions.
If you print a physical copy at home or at a retail kiosk, place your cropped image onto a standard 4 by 6 inch print sheet. Check the physical dimensions with a ruler to confirm accuracy. The tool above helps you arrange your photo correctly on the sheet for easy cutting.
Frequently asked questions
Can I smile in my Dutch driving licence photo?
No, you must keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1].
What background colour should I use?
You must use a plain, uniform light grey, light blue or white background; the official source does not specify exact shades[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided your eyes are fully visible and the lenses have no glare[1].
What is the file size limit for online renewals?
The digital photo file must not exceed 170 kilobytes[1].
Are children subject to different head size rules?
Yes, applicants under 11 years old have a permitted chin-to-crown head height range of 19 to 30 millimetres[1].