Getting Your New Zealand Private Security Licence Photo Right
Follow official rules to prepare a correct photo for your New Zealand private security licence or certificate of approval application.
Official Size and Print Requirements
When you apply for a private security licence or certificate of approval from the Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority, you need to supply a suitable passport-style photo[1]. The official size required for mail applications is 35 by 45 millimetres, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
For a mail application, provide a 35 mm wide by 45 mm high photo on good-quality paper[1]. The photo will be printed on your licence and ID badge[1].
Digital File Rules for Online Applications
If you apply online, you must upload a digital copy of your photo that meets specific technical limits set by the Ministry of Justice[1]. The file must be saved in JPG or JPEG format and kept under 2 megabytes, which is 2048 kilobytes[1].
Your digital image must also be larger than 100 by 130 pixels, and the maximum dimensions must stay under 2048 by 2048 pixels[1]. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct proportions before you upload it to the official portal.
Background and Lighting Standards
The background behind you must follow strict visual guidelines to ensure your face stands out clearly. You must use a plain, light background, not white or dark, with no background shadow[1].
To achieve this at home, stand a short distance away from a plain wall so your body does not cast a shadow behind you. Face a window or a soft light source so that light falls evenly across your face without creating harsh glares or dark patches.
Rules for Headwear and Appearance
Your photo must show your face, head and shoulders from the front. Head coverings are not allowed except for religious or medical reasons, and your facial features and both edges of your face must be clearly shown[1].
If you wear a head covering for these approved reasons, make sure it does not cast any shadows on your face and that your entire facial features remain clearly visible. For other items, the authority leaves specific rules for glasses unspecified, but you should ensure your eyes remain completely uncovered and visible[1].
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
You can easily take your own photo at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of taking a selfie, because holding the camera at arm length distorts your facial features.
Follow the authority’s photo requirements for a full front view of your face, head and shoulders[1].
Preparing a Printed Sheet for a Kiosk
If you need a physical print for a mail application, you can arrange your cropped 35 by 45 millimetre photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch template. You can use the tool above to place your photo onto a standard photo print sheet.
Save the sheet as a standard image file and take it to any local photo printing kiosk. Print it on a glossy or matte 4 by 6 inch photo paper, then use a pair of sharp scissors or a paper cutter to cut out your 35 by 45 millimetre photo along the edges.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of the private security licence photo?
The official size for a mail application print is 35 by 45 millimetres[1].
Can I submit my photo online?
Yes, you can upload a digital photo online if it is in JPG or JPEG format, under 2 megabytes, larger than 100 by 130 pixels, and under 2048 by 2048 pixels[1].
What background color is required?
You must use a plain, light background, not white or dark, with no background shadow[1].
Are hats or head coverings allowed?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, provided it does not obscure your facial features or cast shadows[1].
Are there special photo rules for infants?
There are no separate infant rules published for this specific application[1].