Preparing Your Photo for a Dutch International Driving Permit
You need a printed photo for your Dutch international driving permit. Use this guide to meet the official standards.
Size and Head Height Rules
You apply for an international driving permit in person at an ANWB shop and bring two passport photos that meet Dutch passport photo requirements[1]. The sources do not publish a separate photo size for the permit; the commonly used 35 × 45 mm size is the Dutch passport photo size[2].
Dutch passport photos are 35 by 45 mm, about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[2]. For applicants aged 11 and over, the chin-to-crown measurement is 26 to 30 mm[2].
Background and Lighting Requirements
Your photo must meet Dutch passport photo requirements regarding the background[2]. It needs to feature a plain, uniform light grey, light blue or white background[2]. The exact color shades are not specified by the authority[2], but consistency is key.
To achieve good lighting, face a bright window and avoid harsh shadows on your face. Make sure there are no shadows behind your head on the wall so the issuing clerk can clearly see your silhouette.
Facial Expression, Glasses and Headwear
You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth completely closed when the photo is taken[2]. Look directly into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and clearly visible.
You may wear glasses if your eyes remain visible through transparent lenses without reflections that distort them or cause shadows[2]. A head covering is allowed for religious or belief reasons, or to cover hair loss caused by medical treatment; your face must remain fully visible[2].
Rules for Infants and Children
Dutch passport-photo rules give a chin-to-crown range of 19 to 30 mm for children under 11[2].
There are relaxed pose and expression criteria for children under six years old[2], which means infants do not need to hold a strict neutral expression with their mouths firmly shut during the process.
Submission and Printing Details
You must apply in person at an ANWB shop and bring two passport photos that meet Dutch passport photo requirements[1]. The permit is issued as a printed booklet. The sources do not give a digital file size limit for this application[1][2].
You can prepare your photo at home and use the tool above to format it correctly. Print your cropped photo sheet as an ordinary 4 by 6-inch photo at a local retail printing kiosk.
How to Take Your Photo at Home
Set up a camera or phone at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from where you stand. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying to take a selfie, because holding a device in your hand changes your natural posture.
You can use the tool above to rehearse, check your photo proportions, and prepare your print sheet, though the issuing authority makes the final decision on whether to accept the photo.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Dutch photo requirements call for a neutral expression, a closed mouth, and even lighting without shadows on the face or background[2].
Check all measurements carefully before you print your sheet to avoid extra trips to the shop and delays in receiving your document.
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for a Dutch international driving permit photo?
Can I wear glasses in my permit photo?
Glasses are conditional, meaning you can wear them only if the frames do not block your eyes and the lenses have no glare[2].
How do I submit my photo for the permit?
You must apply in person at an ANWB shop, and the permit is issued as a printed booklet[1].
Are there special photo rules for young children?
Yes, under-eleven facial length must be 19 to 30 mm, and children under six have relaxed pose and expression criteria[2].
Can I take the photo myself at home?
You can take the photo at home and use the tool above to format it, but the issuing authority makes the final decision on acceptance.