Photo requirements for the Colombian international road crew book
You need the correct photo to get your Colombian international road crew book, known as the Libreta de Tripulante Terrestre[1]. Follow the official rules carefully so your application is not delayed[1].
Official Size and Submission Rules
The official size for the photo is 35x45 mm, which equals 1.38x1.77 inches[1]. You must submit physical printed photos for your application[1]. For your first issuance, the rules state that you need two recent identical color photos[1]. If you are submitting a renewal application, the Ministry requires just one photo[1]. You must make sure these prints are clear, sharp, and produced on proper photographic paper.
The issuing authority has not set a specific head height rule for this document[1]. Because of this, you should keep your head centered and well-proportioned within the frame. Make sure your whole face from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head is clearly visible. Do not crop too close or leave too much empty space around your head.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires a white background[1]. Your photographs must be recent, identical, in color, and show a frontal view of your face[1]. Avoid patterned walls, textured surfaces, or colored sheets behind you. The camera must capture your true skin tones without any color filters or digital editing.
Good lighting helps prevent harsh shadows on your face and clothes. Face a window with natural daylight or set up soft lights on both sides of you. Check that light falls evenly across your entire face and that no dark shadows appear on the white background behind you. Proper lighting helps keep your facial features sharp and easy to see.
Glasses, Headwear, and Facial Expression
The source does not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1].
The official page specifies a frontal photo but does not state a mouth or expression rule[1].
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take your picture at home using a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Place the camera securely on a tripod or ask another person to hold it steady. Keep the camera at your exact eye level to prevent angle distortion and make sure your head is not tilted up or down.
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens. Step away from the background wall by half a meter to stop shadows from forming behind your head. Check your clothing before you shoot. Wear ordinary clothes that contrast well with the white background so your shoulders are distinct, and avoid wearing white shirts that blend into the background.
Preparing Your Print File with the Tool
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the required 35 × 45 mm dimensions[1].
You can arrange the cropped photo on a 4 × 6-inch sheet for printing. Follow the Ministry's photo requirements when you submit it[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Offices often reject applications if the photos fail to meet basic official standards. Common problems include incorrect dimensions, blurry details, uneven lighting, or a background that is not purely white. Double check that your physical prints measure exactly 35x45 mm before you submit them to the office[1].
Check your background color carefully. If the background is off-white, grey, or textured, the office may refuse your photos[1]. Always use fresh, high-quality photo paper and avoid home printer paper that looks grainy, glossy in the wrong way, or faded.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of the Libreta de Tripulante Terrestre photo?
The official size is 35x45 mm, which is about 1.38x1.77 inches[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You need two recent identical color printed photos for a first-time application, and one photo for a renewal[1].
What background color is required?
The authority requires a white background[1].
Does the authority set a head height rule?
No, head height is not set by the authority for this document[1].
Can I print my photo at a local store?
Yes, you can print the 4x6-inch sheet made by the tool at an ordinary photo kiosk.