Everything you need to know about India Driving License photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, how many photos to bring, and the RTO application process for both learner's and permanent driving licenses.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | India (Bharat) |
| Document Type | Driving License (DL) / Learner's License (LL) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Pixel Dimensions | 826 × 1062 pixels (at 600 DPI) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 70–80% of photo (min. head height ~32.8 mm) |
| Top Margin | ~3.1 mm from top of photo to top of head |
| Background Color | White (some RTOs accept light blue) |
| Number of Photos | 4–6 printed copies (varies by RTO) |
| Color | Color only (correct skin tone, no red-eye) |
| Application Portal | Parivahan Sewa (parivahan.gov.in) |
| Managing Authority | State RTOs (Regional Transport Offices) |
Driving licenses in India are issued by state Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). While requirements are generally standardized across India, some variation exists between states. Below is a comprehensive guide covering the most commonly accepted specifications.
The driving license application process in India follows these general steps:
Glasses policy varies by state RTO. Some allow prescription glasses if they don't cause glare, while others require you to remove them. Sunglasses are never allowed. To be safe, remove glasses before taking the photo to ensure your eyes are clearly visible.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant driving license photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking 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.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows on both sides of your face.
Wear colored clothing — avoid white tops that blend with the background. Medium to dark colors provide the best contrast. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 1.5 meters 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 clearly visible on both sides.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. The horizontal line between your eyes should be parallel to the top edge of the photo.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID photos
An India Driving License photo must be 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm) in portrait orientation with a white background. At 600 DPI, this translates to approximately 826×1062 pixels. Some state RTOs may also accept 35×35 mm or 51×51 mm photos.
You typically need 4–6 printed passport-size photos (35×45 mm) for a driving license application at the RTO. The exact number may vary by state. It is advisable to carry extra copies just in case.
Some state RTOs accept light blue backgrounds, but white is the most widely accepted and safest choice. Check with your local RTO for their specific requirements. When in doubt, use a white background — our tool provides that automatically.
The process involves: 1) Apply online through the Parivahan Sewa portal (parivahan.gov.in), 2) Book a slot at your local RTO, 3) Visit the RTO with original documents and printed photos, 4) Take the driving test (for permanent license), 5) The license is delivered by post to your registered address. For a learner's license, no driving test is required.
Yes! You can take your driving license photo with any smartphone. Simply upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop to the correct 35×45 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, and ensure it meets all RTO requirements. You can then print the result at any photo shop.
It depends on the state RTO. Some allow prescription glasses if they don't cause glare, while others require you to remove them. Sunglasses are never allowed. To be safe, remove glasses before taking the photo to ensure your eyes are clearly visible.
Wear colored clothing — avoid white tops that may blend with the white background. Do not wear uniforms. Normal everyday clothing in medium to dark colors works best and provides good contrast against the white background.
Most states follow the standard 35×45 mm requirement, but some RTOs may accept 35×35 mm or 51×51 mm photos. Background requirements also vary slightly (white vs. light blue). Always check with your local RTO for their specific requirements. The 35×45 mm white background photo is the most universally accepted format.
