France ID Card Photo Specifications

Detailed France ID Card Photo Requirements

The French national identity card (carte nationale d'identité / CNI) is issued by local municipalities (mairies). The photo requirements are governed by the same ISO/IEC 19794-5:2005 standard and the decree of April 10, 2007, and are identical to passport photo requirements.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — color is strongly recommended
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or editing — do not digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance
• The photo must show both your head and shoulders

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
• Your head must occupy 70–80% of the photo height
• Chin-to-crown distance: approximately 32–36 mm
• Head tilt: up to 5 degrees in any direction is tolerated
• Printed on matte photo-quality paper

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
• Keep your mouth closed — no smiling or teeth showing
• Ensure your face is fully visible from chin to forehead, and ear to ear

Background

• Use a light blue or light grey background ONLY
• White is STRICTLY PROHIBITED for French ID card photos
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are permitted if they meet the following conditions:

• Your eyes (pupils and iris) must be clearly visible through the lenses
• No glare or reflection on the lenses
• No tinted lenses
• Frames must be thin and not hide your face or prevent identification

Head Coverings and Hats

• Head must be bare — no hats, scarves, or headbands
• No exceptions — head coverings of any kind are not allowed
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms
• Avoid wearing tops that blend with the background colour

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo
• The child's eyes must be open and visible
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible
• Mouth must be closed — avoid large hair adornments
• A plain light-coloured sheet may be used as a background for babies

Source: Service-Public.fr — Photo d'identité

How to Take a France ID Card Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens and use the highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo. Avoid selfies as they tend to have the wrong angle.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly plain. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with a compliant light blue or light grey background.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and tops that blend with the background. If you wear glasses, consider removing them for the safest result.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera. Face directly forward, head level, shoulders relaxed. Make sure both head and shoulders are visible in the frame.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your expression neutral with mouth closed and both eyes open. Look straight at the camera. No smiling or exaggerated expressions.

Good and Bad Examples of France ID Card Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions