Polish international driving permit photo (35×45 mm)

Official Size and Submission Rules

When you apply for a Polish international driving permit, you must submit a printed photograph with your application^[1][2]. The official size for this photo is 35 by 45 millimeters, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches^[1][2]. You need to supply one printed photo for each permit you request^[1][2]. If you apply for two permits, you must provide two separate photos^[1][2].

The permit is issued by the Starosta or a city president with county rights^[1]. Follow the photo requirements for a Polish driving licence^[1].

Background and Lighting Requirements

The photo requirements follow the Polish driving-licence photo standard, which calls for a uniform light background^[1].

Use even lighting so your face is clear^[1]. Stand facing a window to get soft natural light on your face. Avoid standing directly under a strong overhead lamp because it can cast dark shadows under your eyes, nose, and chin. Step a little bit away from the background wall so your shadow does not appear behind your head.

Facial Expression and Posture

Use a natural expression and keep your mouth closed^[1].

Look straight ahead with your eyes open^[1].

Glasses and Headwear Rules

Dark glasses are not allowed unless you have a visual impairment and provide the required documentation^[1]. The cited source does not specify rules for ordinary prescription glasses.

Religious headwear is permitted if you provide the required documentation and your face remains visible^[1].

Taking Your Photo at Home

Follow the official driving-licence photo requirements when you take your picture^[1]. You can ask a friend or family member to take the photo for you using a digital camera or a smartphone.

Set the camera at your exact eye level. Do not hold the camera too high or too low, as this distorts the proportions of your face. Stand about two meters away from the camera to keep your face looking natural and free from distortion.

You can use the tool above to crop your photo to 35 by 45 mm^[1].

Checking Your Photo

Before you print your image, look closely at the details. Check that the lighting is bright and even across your whole face.

Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or eyebrows. Check that your background is plain and light with no clutter behind you.

Printing and Submitting Your Document

Submit one printed photo for each permit requested^[1].

Make sure the printed photo measures 35 by 45 mm^[1]. If you print your photo at home, use high-quality photo paper with a glossy or matte finish. Do not use plain office printer paper. Cut the photo carefully along the exact edges using a sharp paper cutter or scissors so the dimensions match the official requirement. Check the application instructions for other documents to bring to the office.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes that lead to photo rejections at the office. Avoid wearing clothing that matches the light background color, as your shoulders will blend into the wall. Do not wear heavy makeup that changes your natural look.

Double-check that you did not apply digital filters or editing tools to smooth your skin. The authority wants to see your natural face clearly^[1].