South African Driving Licence Card Photo Requirements
Preparing the correct photo for your South African Driving Licence Card helps your application move forward without delays. Follow the official rules and practical steps to get your pictures ready.
Official Size and Print Requirements
Western Cape guidance specifies printed photographs measuring 45 × 35 mm[1]. National guidance asks applicants to bring four identical black-and-white photos and confirm the required number with their DLTC; it does not set a national photo size[2].
Confirm the required number of photos with your local DLTC before having them taken[2]. The tool above can crop a photo to 35 × 45 mm for printing.
Background and Lighting Rules
For supplied photographs, use a clear background with no shadows. National guidance reviewed here does not specify a background colour[1].
Good lighting is just as important as a plain backdrop to ensure your face is clearly visible. Face a bright window or set up soft lights evenly in front of you so your features are well lit. Avoid harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows behind your head or under your chin.
Facial Features, Glasses, and Headwear
The national guidance reviewed here does not specify rules for glasses[3].
The national guidance reviewed here does not specify headwear or a head-height measurement[3].
How Photos Are Taken and Submitted
Your application is processed by a provincial driving licence testing centre operating under the Department of Transport[2][1]. The exact method for submitting your photo can vary depending on the specific office you visit[2][1].
Some centres use an image-capture system to take the applicant’s photo digitally on site[1]. Check your local centre’s instructions before your visit.
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
You can take your own photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of taking a selfie, because holding the camera yourself often distorts your facial proportions and angles.
Place the camera at your exact eye level, roughly one to one and a half meters away from your face. Stand against your clear background with no shadows[3], keep a neutral expression, and frame your shot so your upper body and head are clearly visible.
Printing Your Photos on a 4x6 Sheet
If your centre asks for printed photos, you can arrange the 45 × 35 mm crop used in Western Cape guidance on a 4 × 6 inch photo sheet[1].
If you print photos, check that they are identical and black and white as national guidance requires[2]. Confirm with your DLTC how many photos it needs[2].
Children and Age Exceptions
Infant rules do not apply to ordinary driving licences. The cited guidance says some licence categories have minimum age requirements[2].
Every applicant must follow the standard adult application procedures set out by the provincial testing centre. Always verify your local office guidelines to see if any temporary rules or updated digital submission methods apply to your visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a South African driving licence?
Do I need color or black-and-white photos?
The South African Government instructs applicants to bring four identical black-and-white photographs[2].
Does the authority set a specific head height requirement?
No, head height is not set by the authority[3].
What background colour should I use?
For supplied photographs, use a clear background with no shadows; no specific colour is set in the national guidance reviewed[3].
Can I use the tool above for my application?
You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the correct size and arrange it on a 4x6 sheet for printing, but you must check if your local testing centre accepts supplied prints or takes photos digitally on site[1].