Norwegian National ID Card Photo Guidelines
Preparing for your Norwegian national ID card requires knowing how the police handle your picture. The Norwegian Police Service takes the photo directly at your appointment[1]. You do not need to print or bring a physical copy of your picture with you. Knowing what to expect helps you feel ready when you arrive at the station.
Official Size and Dimensions
The police take your photo at the appointment[1]. The published guidance gives facial photo requirements but does not specify print dimensions[2]. A commonly used crop is 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in), but it is not an official size for the card.
The cited guidance does not specify a head-height measurement[2]. Even though photo studios often use the 35x45 mm size because it matches standard passport dimensions in many countries, the police system captures the digital image directly using their own equipment.
Where Your Photo Is Captured
You do not need to bring your own photo. The police take it at your appointment[1].
The police take the photo at your appointment[1].
The tool above can help you prepare a photo for other uses.
Background and Lighting Conditions
Official guidance requires even lighting for the background and face, but does not specify a background color[2].
For practice, you can try framing a photo at home. The official photo is taken at the police appointment[1].
Facial Expression and Mouth Requirements
You must maintain a neutral expression when your picture is taken for the ID card[2]. Your mouth must be closed during the capture[2].
The photo guidance requires a neutral expression and a closed mouth[2].
Glasses and Head Covering Rules
Glasses are not allowed in the official Norwegian national ID card photo[2]. You must remove your prescription glasses or sunglasses before the police take your picture.
Headwear may be allowed for religious or medical reasons. It must not cover the face or more of the head than necessary[2].
Guidelines for Children and Infants
The same facial photo criteria apply to adults and children[2].
The police take the photo at the appointment[1]. The same facial photo criteria apply to adults and children[2].
Preparing Your Digital Files
You might want to keep digital copies of your personal photos for other uses or online applications. While the police take the official image for your national ID card, managing your own digital image files is a useful skill for everyday tasks.
You can adjust your personal snapshots to standard dimensions like 35×45 mm. The tool on this page makes it easy to crop and format images directly in your web browser without uploading them anywhere. This helps you get personal photos ready for job applications, school portals, or other non-official documents.
Before Your Appointment
Check the police website for appointment and identification information before your visit.
Remove your glasses before the photo and follow the facial photo requirements[2].
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own photo for a Norwegian national ID card?
No, the police take the photo at your appointment[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Glasses are not allowed[2].
What kind of background is required?
Official guidance specifies an evenly lit background but no color[2].
Are there special rules for children?
The same facial photo criteria apply for adults and children[2].
Can I wear a head covering?
Headwear may be allowed for religious or medical reasons, subject to the photo requirements[2].
Can I use my own printed photo instead?
No, the police capture the image digitally at the station during your visit[1].