Australia Adult Proof of Age Card Photo (35×45 mm) Requirements and Size Guide
Everything you need to know about Australia Adult Proof of Age card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background colour, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
Australia Adult Proof of Age Card Photo Specifications
Requirement
Specification
Country
Australia
Document Type
Adult Proof of Age Card
Photo Size
35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm / 1.38 × 1.77 inches)
Resolution (DPI)
600
Face Size (Chin to Crown)
32–36 mm (1.25–1.41 inches)
Background Colour
Plain white or light grey
Printable
Yes — on glossy or matte photo paper (200+ gsm)
Digital Photo Size
826 × 1062 pixels minimum
Number of Photos Required
1 photo (usually)
Colour
Colour only
Recency
Recent photo reflecting current appearance
Australia Proof of Age Card Photo Size Diagram
Key measurements: The photo must be 35 × 45 mm. Your face (from chin to crown of head) must measure 32–36 mm. There should be adequate space between the top of your head and the upper edge of the photo.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 35×45 mm size, remove and replace the background, adjust the face size, and ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
Detailed Australia Proof of Age Card Photo Requirements
Australian proof of age cards follow similar photo requirements to Australian passports. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
About the Adult Proof of Age Card
The Adult Proof of Age card is a government-issued photo identification card available to adults who may not hold a driver's licence. It is issued by each Australian state and territory under different names:
Victoria (VIC) — Keypass
New South Wales (NSW) — PASS (Proof of Age/Student card)
Queensland (QLD) — Adult Proof of Age Card
Western Australia (WA) — Proof of Age Card
South Australia (SA) — Proof of Age Card
Tasmania (TAS) — Proof of Age Card
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) — Proof of Age Card
Northern Territory (NT) — Proof of Age Card
While each state issues its own card, the photo requirements are consistent nationwide and follow the same standards as Australian passport photos.
Photo Basics
Your photo must be in colour
Must be a recent photo that reflects your current appearance
Must be clear, sharp and in focus
No retouching — do not remove moles, wrinkles, scars, or red eyes
No red-eye in the photo
Size and Dimensions
Standard photo size: 35 × 45 mm
Your face (chin to crown of head): 32–36 mm
Printed on quality photo paper (minimum 200 gsm)
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly — head not tilted or turned
Neutral expression — no smiling, laughing, or frowning
Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
Keep your mouth closed
Hair off your face so the edges of your face are visible
Shoulders must be visible
Background
Plain white or light grey background
Background must contrast with your face
No patterns, shadows, or objects visible
Glasses
Glasses must be removed for your proof of age card photo, following the same rules as Australian passport photos. Even if you wear glasses daily, you must remove them for the photo.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are only allowed for religious or cultural reasons
Must be plain material without patterns
Your full face must be visible from chin to forehead
Both edges of your face must be visible
Jewellery and Piercings
Jewellery is acceptable as long as it does not obscure any part of your face
No reflection from nose rings, studs, or other facial jewellery
Clothing
Wear normal everyday clothing
Do not wear uniforms
Avoid white or light tops that blend with the background
Source: Photo requirements follow Australian passport photo standards as adopted by state and territory issuing authorities across Australia.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant proof of age card photo at home.
1
Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera
Any modern smartphone camera can take a compliant photo. Clean the lens and set to highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to help — avoid selfies.
2
Find Good Lighting
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh shadows. Use multiple indoor lights to eliminate shadows.
Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfect. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with the required white or light grey.
3
Dress Appropriately
Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops. Keep hair off your face so edges are visible.
4
Pose Correctly
Stand about 1.5 metres from the camera. Head facing directly forward, shoulders relaxed, head level. Your face and shoulders must be visible.
5
Maintain a Neutral Expression
Neutral expression with mouth closed, both eyes open. No smiling, laughing, or frowning.
Good and Bad Examples of Proof of Age Card Photos
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is an Australia Adult Proof of Age card photo?
An Australia Adult Proof of Age card photo must be 35 × 45 mm. Your face (chin to crown of head) must measure 32–36 mm. The digital version should be at least 826 × 1062 pixels at 600 DPI.
Can I wear glasses in my proof of age card photo?
No. Glasses must be removed for your proof of age card photo, following the same rules as Australian passport photos.
Can I smile in my proof of age card photo?
No. You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. No smiling, laughing, or frowning is permitted.
Can I take my proof of age card photo with my phone?
Yes! Upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all official requirements.
What background is required?
Plain white or light grey that contrasts with your face. No patterns, shadows, or objects visible. Our tool will automatically replace your background if needed.
How recent must my proof of age card photo be?
Your photo should be recent and reflect your current appearance. It is recommended to have it taken within the last 6 months.
Which Australian states issue proof of age cards?
Each Australian state and territory issues its own proof of age card. In Victoria it is known as Keypass, in NSW it is called PASS, and other states have similar cards. The photo requirements are generally consistent across all states and follow Australian passport photo standards.
How many photos do I need?
Usually only 1 photo is required for a proof of age card application, though requirements may vary slightly by state. Check with your local issuing authority for exact requirements.
