Everything you need to know about UK firearms and shotgun licence photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background colour, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Document Type | Firearms Certificate / Shotgun Certificate |
| 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 — typically 4 identical photos required |
| Digital for Online Submission | Check with your local police force |
| Digital Photo Size | At least 600 × 750 pixels |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last month |
UK firearms and shotgun licence applications require passport-style photographs that meet strict standards. These photographs are processed by your local police force under Home Office guidance. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
When applying for a UK Firearms Certificate (FAC), Shotgun Certificate (SGC), or Explosives Licence, you must provide passport-style photographs as part of your application. These photos are submitted to your local police force's firearms licensing department and must meet the same standards as UK passport photos.
Avoid wearing glasses if possible. If you must wear them, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are strictly not permitted. Your eyes must be clearly visible through the lenses with no red-eye effect.
Typically 4 identical photographs are required for a firearms or shotgun certificate application. One photograph must be signed on the back by your referee/countersignatory. However, requirements may vary between police forces — always check with your local police firearms licensing department before submitting your application.
Source: UK Government — Shotgun and Firearms Licences | Metropolitan Police — Firearms Application Guidance Notes
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant UK firearms licence photo at home using your smartphone.
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.
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, neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth must be closed. Do not smile — a neutral expression is required for UK firearms licence photos.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable firearms licence photos
A UK firearms licence photo must be 35×45mm, which is the same size as a standard UK passport photo. Your head must measure between 29–34mm from the crown of your head to your chin, occupying 70–80% of the photograph.
Typically 4 identical photographs are required. One photograph must be signed on the back by your referee/countersignatory. Always check with your local police firearms licensing department for their exact requirements, as some forces may request a different number.
Yes, the photo requirements for a UK firearms or shotgun certificate are the same as for a UK passport. The photo must be 35×45mm, taken against a plain light grey or cream background, with a neutral expression, mouth closed, and both eyes open.
The background must be a plain light grey or cream colour, with no patterns, objects, shadows, or other people visible. The background must be uniform and evenly lit throughout.
No. You must maintain a plain, neutral expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open. Smiling is not permitted in UK firearms or shotgun licence photos.
Firearms and shotgun certificate applications are submitted to your local police force's firearms licensing department. You should contact them directly for the relevant application forms (Form 101 for FAC, Form 201 for SGC) and specific submission requirements.
