Preparing Your Zambian International Driving Permit Photo
Get the exact photo size and rules you need for your Zambian International Driving Permit. Follow these clear steps to prepare your picture.
Official Size and Dimensions
The Road Transport and Safety Agency issues the International Driving Permit[1][2]. The official size for your application photo is 35 by 50 millimeters, which is 1.38 by 1.97 inches[1][2].
The regulation gives a size range of 50 to 65 mm by 35 to 50 mm[1]. The minimum dimensions are 35 × 50 mm, with the shorter side listed second[1].
The head height is not set by the authority, so you must use your best judgment to frame your face clearly within the picture boundaries[1][2]. Knowing these specific measurements helps you avoid formatting mistakes before you submit your paperwork to the issuing agency.
Required Photo Style and Composition
Your application requires two recent, full-face, head-and-shoulders photos[1][2]. One photo is affixed to the permit and stamped by the issuing office[1][2].
Because these pictures go directly onto an official driving document, they must clearly show your facial features without any digital distortion or heavy filters. Make sure you look straight into the camera lens with a neutral expression so officials can easily verify your identity.
Your shoulders should be square to the camera, and your entire head from chin to crown should fit comfortably inside the designated image area.
Background and Lighting Specifications
The regulation does not specify a background color[1][2]. You can choose a plain, neutral wall in your home for your photo shoot to keep the focus entirely on your face.
Avoid busy patterns, textured wallpaper, or distracting objects in the background. Good lighting helps the camera capture your facial features clearly, so try to stand in a room where natural light falls evenly across your front.
Avoid standing in direct harsh sunlight that creates deep shadows on one side of your face or on the wall behind you.
Headwear and Glasses Rules
Headwear is not permitted in your photo, so your head must remain uncovered[1][2].
The rules for glasses are unspecified by the authority[1][2]. Many applicants choose to take off their glasses to completely avoid any flash glare, frame reflections, or shadows that might obscure their eyes.
Step-by-Step Home Setup Instructions
You can take your photo at home using a standard digital camera or smartphone. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens to prevent any distortion of your facial features.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of holding the camera out yourself, which can cause awkward angles. Keep the camera at your exact eye level and make sure your entire upper body fits properly within the frame before you capture the shot.
Printing and Submission Guidelines
Your application requires two recent photos[1]. One photo is affixed to the permit and stamped[1].
You can use the tool above to crop your picture correctly and prepare it for printing. The tool helps you arrange your cropped photo onto a sheet that you can print as an ordinary four by six inch photo at any local printing kiosk or photo center.