Preparing Your Trinidad and Tobago National Identification Card Photo
Check the photo instructions for your Trinidad and Tobago National Identification Card application before preparing a photo.
Understanding the Photo Rules
The Elections and Boundaries Commission is the organization that manages your National Identification Card application[1]. When you look at the official documents, you will find that the authority publishes no single official size for the card photo[1]. Because of this missing rule, photo studios use 35 by 45 millimeters, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches, as the size most often asked for[1]. You must always confirm these measurements with your local issuing office before you print anything.
The official rules do not list a specific requirement for head height, meaning the head height is not set by the authority[1]. When you frame your picture, leave a natural amount of space above your head and around your shoulders. This keeps your face centered and easy to see for the people processing your card.
Who Takes the Photo
The process for getting your photo can depend on your specific situation, as who takes the photo varies[1]. According to the legal framework, registration rules provide for an official photographer when the applicant does not furnish acceptable prints[2]. This means you can try to bring your own printed photo to the office.
The registration rules provide for an official photographer when the applicant does not furnish acceptable prints[2]. Check with the Commission about what to bring.
Background and Lighting
When planning your picture, you might wonder about the proper backdrop. The official guidance states clearly that the issuing authority material reviewed does not state a background colour[1]. Since there is no official color requirement, choosing a plain, neutral wall works best to keep the focus entirely on you.
Good lighting is just as important as the background. Stand facing a large window during the day to get soft, natural light on your face. Avoid standing under harsh overhead lights that cast deep shadows under your eyes, nose, and chin.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
People often wonder if they can wear glasses or specific clothing in their identification photos. The rules state that glasses allowed is unspecified[1], meaning there is no strict ban or requirement written down. If you wear glasses in your daily life, you can keep them on as long as the frames do not hide your eyes and there is no flash glare on the glass.
The materials reviewed do not specify rules for headwear, expression, or mouth position[1][2].
Taking Your Picture at Home
You can take your identification picture at home if you follow a few basic steps. First, do not try to take a selfie because holding the camera too close distorts your facial features. Instead, ask a friend or family member to help you take the picture using a digital camera or smartphone.
Set the camera at your exact eye level to avoid looking up or down at the lens. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera, and relax your shoulders. Look straight ahead with your eyes open wide and focused directly on the camera lens.
Printing Your Photos
Once you capture a good photo, you need to prepare it for submission. The official submission method for this document is printed[1], which means digital uploads are not accepted by the online system for this specific card. You must bring physical paper copies to your appointment.
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the standard 35 by 45 millimeter size. Place your cropped picture onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo template so you can print it cheaply at a local store kiosk. Cut the printed photo carefully along the straight lines before you head to your appointment.
What to Check Before You Go
Before you leave for your appointment, check your printed photos carefully against a list of common errors. Make sure your face fills a good portion of the frame and that your ears and jawline are clearly visible. Blurry photos or pictures with poor lighting are often rejected by staff.
The registration rules provide for an official photographer when an applicant does not furnish acceptable prints[2]. Ask the Commission what to do if your print is not accepted.
Frequently asked questions
What size should my Trinidad and Tobago National ID photo be?
Can I take my own photo for the ID card?
What background color do I need?
The issuing authority material reviewed does not state a background colour[1].