Preparing Your Rwandan Driving Licence Photo
Get ready to apply for your Rwandan driving licence with a clear, properly sized photo. This page helps you prepare your picture correctly.
Official Size and Requirements
The Rwanda National Police (RNP) issues provisional licences electronically, and its sources show that a driving licence has a portrait[1][2]. The sources do not give a photo size. A 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) crop is a common practical size, but check with the issuing office before preparing a photo.
The reviewed sources do not specify a head height or photo dimensions.
Background and Appearance Details
The opened RNP sources confirm that a driving licence carries a portrait, but publish no photo background requirement or dimensions[1][2]. This means there is no official rule stating you must use a specific background color.
Additionally, the official sources do not specify rules for glasses, head coverings, facial expressions, or whether your mouth must be closed. Since these details are left unspecified by the police, you should try to keep your appearance simple, natural, and professional to avoid any issues during your application review.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Taking your photo at home is simple if you follow a few basic steps. First, find a room with good lighting and face a window so light falls evenly across your face. Do not use a flash if it creates harsh shadows behind you.
Next, stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera to avoid distortion. Always ask someone else to take the picture for you instead of holding the camera out for a selfie. Keep the camera lens right at your eye level so you look straight ahead.
Using the Tool on This Page
After you take your picture, you need to crop it to the correct proportions. You can use the tool above to help you crop your passport or ID photo to the 35×45 mm size right in your browser.
The tool above works locally on your device, meaning your photo never leaves your computer or phone. This keeps your private images secure while you prepare them for your application. It also lets you frame your image correctly before you print or save a digital copy.
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
The reviewed Rwanda National Police sources do not say whether applicants submit a photo, or whether submissions are digital or printed. Check the current instructions from the testing and licensing department before preparing a photo[1][2].
Take this sheet to a local photo kiosk and print it just like any other standard photograph. Make sure the print comes out clear, sharp, and with accurate colors. If you are submitting digitally, check if there are specific pixel dimensions required by your online portal.
Avoiding Common Refusals
Photos often face rejection if they are blurry, too dark, or taken from a bad angle. Check that your face is fully visible, your eyes are open, and the image is sharp before you finish.
Even though the official rules are flexible, a clear and well-lit photo helps your application process move along without trouble. Always double-check your final picture against any local instructions provided by the testing and licensing department.
Rules for Children and Infants
The reviewed sources do not specify rules for infant photos or say whether applicants supply a photo for a driving licence[1][2].
If the RNP asks you to provide a photo, check its current instructions for any requirements for younger applicants.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Rwandan driving licence photo?
The reviewed sources do not give an official photo size. A 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) crop is a common practical size.
Who issues the driving licence in Rwanda?
The Rwanda National Police (RNP) issues provisional licences electronically[1].
Does the RNP specify a background color?
Can I print my photo at a kiosk?
Yes, you can arrange your 35×45 mm photo on a 4×6-inch sheet and print it at a local kiosk.