Photo for your Portuguese international driving permit
The IMT asks applicants for a current colour passport-style photo with a plain, light background[1]. It does not give a size, so check with IMT before printing.
Size and Dimensions
The IMT page asks for a current colour passport-style photo but does not state its dimensions[1]. A 35 by 45 mm crop is a common passport-style size, not an IMT-published requirement.
Check with IMT about the print dimensions before you prepare the photo.
Background and Lighting
Official instructions specify a current colour passport-style photo with a plain, light background[1]. Try to stand in front of a plain white or light-coloured wall in your home. Make sure the light falls evenly across your face so there are no heavy shadows behind you or under your chin.
Face a bright window or use soft indoor lighting to keep the shot clear and bright. Avoid wearing bright clothing that casts colour reflections onto your face. A clean, well-lit setting gives the best results for your final print.
Head Height and Framing
The exact head height is not set by the authority for this document[1]. You can use the tool above to help line up your face and crop the picture neatly.
Keep your head centered and look straight into the camera lens at eye level. Leave a little space around your head and shoulders so the photo looks balanced and fits the frame properly.
Glasses, Headwear, and Expression
The IMT page does not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1]. Check with IMT if you are unsure whether to wear glasses in the photo.
The IMT page does not specify rules for head coverings or facial expression[1]. Check with IMT if you have questions about your photo.
Printed Submission
The IMT page asks for a current colour passport-style photo[1]. It does not specify in this source whether to submit a print or a digital file, so confirm the format with IMT.
Once you crop your image to 35 by 45 mm, place it onto a standard 4 by 6-inch sheet. Take that digital file to a local print kiosk and print it as an ordinary 4 by 6 photo. Then cut out your picture carefully with scissors or a paper cutter.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can save time and money by taking your photo at home before you print it. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture using a digital camera or a smartphone.
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera to avoid any distortion of your facial features. Check that the image is in focus and shows your upper body clearly against the light background.
Preparing Your Photo with the Tool
Because the IMT does not set a single official size[1], you need to rely on the size most often asked for by photo studios[1].
You can use the tool above to rehearse, check your photo, or prepare a copy for other uses, though the issuing authority makes the final decision on acceptance. It helps you get the proportions right before you print your 4 by 6 sheet at a store.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a Portuguese international driving permit?
The IMT publishes no single official size, but 35 by 45 mm is the size most often asked for[1]. Confirm this with the issuing office.
Do I need to submit a printed photo or a digital file?
The IMT asks for a current colour passport-style photo, but this page does not state whether it must be printed or submitted digitally[1].
Is head height specified by the authority?
No, the exact head height is not set by the authority[1].
What background colour should I use?
Official instructions specify a plain, light background[1].
Can I use the tool on this page to prepare my photo?
Yes, you can use the tool above to rehearse, check your photo, or prepare a copy, but the authority decides if it is accepted.