Everything you need to know about Japan driving license photo requirements for 運転免許証 (unten menkyo sho) applications and renewals, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to submit your photo at the driver's license center.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Japan (日本) |
| Document Type | Driving License (運転免許証 / Unten Menkyo Sho) |
| Photo Size | 24 × 30 mm (2.4 × 3 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Height | ~22.5 mm (approximately 75% of photo height) |
| Top Margin | ~1.2 mm (approximately 4% from top of photo) |
| Head Proportion | ~75% of the photograph |
| Background Color | Plain light blue or white |
| Printable | Yes |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 3 months |
| Number of Photos | 1 |
| Glasses | Not permitted (generally not allowed since 2022 rules) |
Japan requires a specific format for driving license (運転免許証) photographs. The photo is smaller than a standard passport photo at 24x30mm and has particular rules about glasses and recency. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
When applying for or renewing a Japanese driving license, you must submit one photograph that meets strict size and quality requirements. The photo is affixed to your license card and must accurately represent your current appearance. The photo must be taken within 3 months of your application date, which is shorter than the typical 6-month requirement for passport photos in many countries.
Under updated rules (since approximately 2022), glasses are generally not permitted in Japanese driving license photos. You should remove your glasses before taking the photo.
You will need to provide a photo in the following situations:
You submit your driving license photo in person at the licensing center:
Source: Check with your local 運転免許センター (Driver's License Center) or police station for the most up-to-date photo requirements. Requirements may vary slightly by jurisdiction.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Japan 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 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.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and light-colored tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 1.5 metres 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.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile — a completely neutral expression is required. Remove your glasses before taking the photo, as glasses are generally not permitted in Japanese driving license photos.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable driving license photos
A Japan driving license photo must be 24x30mm (2.4x3cm). This is smaller than a standard passport photo. The head height should be approximately 22.5mm, occupying about 75% of the photo height. There should be a small top margin of about 1.2mm.
Generally no. Since updated rules around 2022, glasses are generally not permitted in Japanese driving license photos. You should remove your glasses before taking the photo. If you have a specific medical requirement, check with your local 運転免許センター (driver's license center).
The background must be plain light blue or white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a suitable background, our tool will automatically replace it with the correct color.
The photo must have been taken within the last 3 months. This is a shorter recency requirement than passport photos in many countries (which often allow 6 months). Make sure your photo is recent and accurately represents your current appearance.
No. You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Smiling, frowning, and raised eyebrows are not permitted. Both eyes must be open and clearly visible.
You need 1 photo for your Japan driving license application or renewal. Bring the printed photo with you when you visit the driver's license center.
You submit your photo in person at the local driver's license center (運転免許センター) or police station licensing division when applying for or renewing your license. Some centers have photo booths on-site, but bringing a pre-printed photo can save time.
No. The Japan driving license photo is 24x30mm (2.4x3cm), which is significantly smaller than the standard Japanese passport photo size of 35x45mm. Make sure you use the correct 24x30mm dimensions for your driving license application.
