Preparing Your Dominican Republic National Identity Card Photo
The Junta Central Electoral (JCE) captures your photo at the enrollment center for your Cédula de Identidad y Electoral[1]. You can use the tool above to prepare and check your images for other personal uses.
Where the Photo Is Taken
The Junta Central Electoral (JCE) captures your photo directly at the enrollment center when you apply for your Cédula de Identidad y Electoral[1]. Because staff take the picture on site during your visit, you do not need to bring a pre-printed photograph for your official appointment[1]. However, you might want to prepare copies for other personal documents, job applications, or records.
You can use the tool above to crop and size images for your own personal use, even though the official card photo always happens at the JCE office[1]. Taking time to rehearse your posture at home can help you feel more confident when you visit the center. Understanding this workflow saves you time and prevents confusion about what you need to bring.
Official Sizes and Studio Standards
The JCE FAQ does not specify a photo size because staff capture the image at the enrollment center[1].
Furthermore, the authority sets no specific measurement for head height in the official documentation[1]. If you are preparing a copy for another purpose using standard dimensions, you should always check with the receiving office to confirm their exact measurements before you print anything. Knowing these details helps you avoid common formatting mistakes.
Glasses and Facial Accessories
You must remove all glasses before your photo is taken[1]. The JCE rules clearly state that glasses are strictly not allowed in your identity card image[1].
The JCE FAQ also says to remove earrings, necklaces, and facial piercings[1].
Hair and Head Coverings
Your forehead must remain completely uncovered in the photo[1]. Brush your hair back and tuck it securely behind your ears so your entire face is fully visible to the camera[1].
The source does not specify whether headwear is allowed. It says the forehead should be uncovered and hair kept behind the ears[1].
Rules for Minors and Families
The cédula is available to eligible minors, and the JCE captures their photo at the enrollment center[1].
JCE staff capture the photo at the enrollment center, so parents do not need to bring an outside photo for the official card image[1].
Steps for Practice Photos at Home
If you want to practice your pose or prepare a photo for another document, set up your camera in a well-lit room. Face a window to get soft natural light on your face and avoid dark shadows under your eyes or chin.
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens. Ask a trusted friend or family member to take the picture so you do not distort your features with an arm's-length selfie angle. Good lighting and proper distance make your practice photos look much better.
Preparing and Printing Your Files
When you prepare an image for personal use, keep the framing simple and clean against a plain background. You can use the tool above to adjust your digital files quickly and easily for your own projects.
If you need a print for another purpose, you can print it on photo paper. The JCE takes the official cédula photo at the enrollment center[1].
Frequently asked questions
Does the JCE take the photo for the cédula?
Yes, JCE staff capture the official photo directly at the enrollment center during your visit[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
No, glasses are strictly not allowed in your identity card photo[1].
What size is the cédula photo?
The JCE FAQ does not specify a photo size; staff capture the image at the enrollment center[1].
Are earrings and necklaces allowed?
No, earrings, necklaces, and facial piercings are prohibited[1].
Do children need to bring a photo?
No, the cédula covers eligible minors, and the authority captures the image for them on site at the center[1].