German Driving License Photo Specifications

Detailed German Driving License Photo Requirements

German driving licenses (Führerschein) follow the same EU biometric photo standard (ISO/IEC 19794-5) as passports and ID cards. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be sharp and in focus, with proper contrast and no blurriness
• No filters or digital editing — do not alter your appearance with software
• Must reflect your current appearance
• The photo must be a front-facing portrait — no profile or angled shots

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (1.37 × 1.77 inches)
• Your face must measure between 32–36 mm from the bottom of your chin to the crown of your head
• Your face must cover 70–80% of the photo height
• The face must be centered in the photo

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking straight at the camera
• No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and ear to ear

Background

• Use a plain light grey background for dark hair, or medium grey for light-colored hair
• The background must be uniform and monochromatic — no patterns, textures, or objects
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face/hair and the background

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed in German driving license photos. You must remove all eyeglasses, including prescription glasses, before taking the photo. Tinted lenses and sunglasses are also strictly prohibited.

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn daily for religious purposes
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be clearly visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• The head covering must not cast shadows on your face
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid clothing that blends with the grey background

Important Notes for EU Driving License

The German driving license follows the EU standard driving license format (card-style, credit card size). The photo requirements are the same as for German passports and ID cards. If you already have a compliant biometric photo for your passport or ID card, it can typically be reused for your driving license application.

Source: German Federal Foreign Office — Sample Biometric Photos

How to Take a German Driving License Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant German driving license photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) can take a driving license-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.

Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. Use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate all shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly grey. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with the required light grey color.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and clothing that blends with the grey background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters (5 feet) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible and centered.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile, frown, or make any exaggerated facial expressions. Look straight into the camera lens.

Good and Bad Examples of German Driving License Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable driving license photos

Frequently Asked Questions