Russian Driving Licence Photo Requirements and Procedures
For a Russian driving licence, the licensing authority photographs you as part of issuing the licence[1].
How the Authority Captures Your Image
When you apply for your Russian driving licence, the procedure handles your photo capture in a very specific way. The applicant is photographed by the licensing authority as part of issuance[1]. This means you do not need to bring a pre-printed photograph from home or a photo studio when you attend your appointment[1].
No applicant-supplied photo or photo dimensions are specified in the current procedure[1]. The State Traffic Inspectorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation manages the entire process on-site[1]. Their staff uses dedicated camera equipment to take your picture during your visit to the office[1]. This direct digital capture method allows them to integrate your image straight into the system for your final plastic card[1]. Because the agency handles the photography directly, you can rely on their staff to guide you through the quick camera session at the counter[1].
The Size and Dimensions Situation
The current procedure does not specify a photo size, and the authority publishes no single official size for this document[1].
The 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) size is a practical studio size, not an official requirement. The cited procedure does not say it is the size most often requested by local offices[1]. Confirm with your issuing office whether you need to prepare anything before your visit.
Head Height and Composition Rules
When reviewing the official decrees, you will find that head height is not set by the authority[1]. There are no mandatory millimetre measurements for the distance from your chin to the top of your head in the official rules[1].
The procedure does not specify top margins, eye-line position, or head measurements[1]. It also does not describe how the authority frames or adjusts the image.
Appearance, Backgrounds, and Clothing
The official regulations do not provide a detailed description of background colours or lighting requirements for this licence photo[1]. Rules regarding glasses are listed as unspecified in the administrative guidelines[1].
The cited procedure does not specify rules for headwear, facial expression, or whether the mouth must be closed[1]. Infant rules do not apply to this document. The source does not describe the photo location or say what instructions staff give applicants.
Digital Files and Card Production
The applicant is photographed by the licensing authority as part of issuance[1]. The procedure does not specify how the image is stored.
The cited procedure does not specify digital file-size limits or describe how the image is processed after capture[1]. It says the authority photographs the applicant during issuance, so applicants do not submit a photo under the current procedure[1].
Using the Tool Above for Other Needs
Even though the official licence photo must be taken at the government office, you might still need to crop images for other valid purposes. You can use the tool above to crop passport, visa, and ID photos right in your browser.
If you use the tool above for another purpose, check its privacy and printing details before uploading or printing an image. It cannot provide the photo for your Russian driving licence, which is taken by the licensing authority.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own printed photo for a Russian driving licence?
No, the applicant is photographed by the licensing authority as part of issuance, so you do not need to bring a pre-printed photo[1].
What is the official size of the photo?
The authority publishes no single official size, but photo studios typically use 35x45 mm (1.38x1.77 inches) as the size most often asked for[1].
Are there specific rules for glasses or headwear?
Glasses and headwear are listed as unspecified in the current official procedures[1].
Can I use a digital file from home for my application?
No, submission is handled via digital capture directly at the licensing authority facility during your visit[1].
Does the authority set a specific head height rule?
Head height is not set by the authority in the official regulations[1].