Netherlands Driving License Photo Specifications

Detailed Netherlands Driving License Photo Requirements

The Dutch driving license (rijbewijs) photo follows the same official requirements as passport and ID card photos, as specified by the Netherlands government. Driving license applications and renewals are processed at your local municipality (gemeente). Below is a comprehensive guide.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in full color — black and white photos are not accepted
• 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 digital alteration — do not retouch or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance
• Printed on high-quality smooth (matte) photo paper — at least 400 DPI
• No reproductions, copies, or computer-altered images

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
• Face width: 16–20 mm measured from ear to ear
• Face height: 26–30 mm from chin to crown of head
• Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo
• The head 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
• Your face must be fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• Shoulders should be squared and visible in the photo
• The nose must be centered in the photo

Background

• Use a plain white background only
• The background must be a single uniform color
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face and the background

Glasses

Glasses are allowed in Netherlands driving license photos, but with restrictions:

• Lenses must be fully transparent — no tinting or color
• No glare or reflections on the lenses — your eyes must be clearly visible
• The frames must not obscure your eyes or eyebrows
• Sunglasses are strictly prohibited
• If you normally wear glasses while driving, you may want to wear them in the photo

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are permitted, unless worn for religious reasons
• If worn for religious reasons, the head covering must be plain and one color
• Your full face must still be clearly visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• The head covering must contrast with the background color
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing light-colored tops that may blend with the background

Source: Netherlands Worldwide — Photo Requirements for Passports and ID Cards

How to Take a Netherlands Driving License Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Dutch 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.) is more than capable of taking a passport-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. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.

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

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and light-colored tops that blend with the background. If you wear glasses, make sure the lenses are clear with no glare.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 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 visible.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. No smiling, squinting, or frowning.

Good and Bad Examples of Netherlands Driving License Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable driving license photos

Frequently Asked Questions