Everything you need to know about UK driving licence photo requirements for provisional licence, full licence, and licence renewal applications, including exact dimensions, background colour, pose rules, and how to submit your photo to DVLA.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Document Type | Driving Licence (Provisional / Full / Renewal) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 29–34 mm from crown of head to chin |
| Head Proportion | 70–80% of the photograph |
| Background Color | Plain light grey or cream |
| Printable | Yes |
| Digital for Online Submission | Yes (DVLA online application) |
| Digital Photo Size | At least 600 × 750 pixels |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last month |
The DVLA requires a passport-style photo for all UK driving licence applications. The photo must meet the same standards as a UK passport photo. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) requires a passport-style photograph for driving licence applications in the UK. The photo format is identical to UK passport photos: 35x45mm with a light grey or cream background. Whether you are applying for your first provisional licence, replacing a lost licence, or renewing an expired one, the same photo requirements apply.
It is best to remove glasses if possible when having your driving licence photo taken. If you must wear them:
You will need to provide a passport-style photo in the following situations:
There are several ways to provide your photo for a UK driving licence application:
In the UK, you can apply for a provisional driving licence at different ages depending on the vehicle type:
The same photo requirements apply to provisional licence applicants of all ages.
Source: UK Government — Passport Photo Rules (DVLA uses the same photo standards)
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant UK driving licence photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a licence-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-coloured 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 plain expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile — the DVLA requires a completely neutral expression with no raised eyebrows.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable driving licence photos
A UK driving licence photo must be 35x45mm (3.5x4.5cm), the same size as a UK passport photo. Your head must measure between 29mm and 34mm from the crown of your head to your chin, occupying 70-80% of the photograph.
Yes. The DVLA uses the same passport-style photo format. Both printed and digital passport photos meet the driving licence requirements. If you have a digital UK passport, DVLA may even be able to use the photo from your passport directly when you apply online.
The background must be a plain light grey or cream colour. 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 colour.
You can submit your photo in three ways: (1) Online — upload a digital photo during the DVLA online application; (2) By post — include a printed 35x45mm photo with your D1 form; (3) Use your digital passport photo — DVLA may be able to access your existing UK passport photo automatically.
No. You must maintain a plain, neutral expression with your mouth closed. Smiling, frowning, and raised eyebrows are not permitted. Both eyes must be open and clearly visible.
DVLA will send you a reminder when your photocard licence photo needs updating (typically every 10 years). You also need a new photo when replacing a lost or stolen licence, renewing an expired licence, or changing your name on your licence.
Yes. You can apply for your first provisional driving licence online through the DVLA website. You will need to upload a digital passport-style photo as part of the application. You can apply from 15 years and 9 months for a moped, 16 for some vehicles, and 17 for a car.
Yes. If you have a UK digital passport, DVLA may be able to use the photo from your passport for your driving licence application. This is checked automatically when you apply online through the DVLA website, saving you the trouble of providing a separate photo.
