Everything you need to know about New York gun license photo requirements for the NYPD License Division, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Document Type | NY Gun License (Pistol Permit) |
| Photo Size | 1.5 x 1.5 inches (38 x 38 mm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 1 to 1-3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top of head |
| Background Color | White or off-white |
| Printable | Yes |
| Digital for Online Submission | Contact NYPD License Division for current requirements |
| Digital Photo Size | 900 x 900 pixels (approx.) |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The NYPD License Division requires specific photos for pistol permit and handgun license applications. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
The NY gun license photo size is 1.5 x 1.5 inches (38 x 38 mm), which is notably smaller than the standard US passport photo (2 x 2 inches). This is a critical difference -- submitting a full-size passport photo will result in rejection.
Glasses are NOT allowed in NY gun license photos. Remove all eyewear before taking the photo. This includes prescription glasses, sunglasses, and decorative frames. The NYPD requires a clear, unobstructed view of your eyes and facial features for identification purposes.
The NYPD License Division handles all handgun license applications for New York City. Here is an overview of the process:
Applicants must submit the required photos along with the application form, fingerprints, and other supporting documentation to the NYPD License Division. Check the NYPD website for the most current requirements and fees.
The number of photos required may vary depending on the type of license and current NYPD requirements. Contact the NYPD License Division directly or check their official website to confirm how many photos you need to submit with your application. It is always a good idea to have a few extra copies on hand.
Source: NYPD Firearms License Services
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant NY gun license photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a quality ID 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 white 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 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.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. You may have a very slight, natural smile -- but no teeth showing and no squinting.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID photos
A New York gun license photo must be 1.5 x 1.5 inches (38 x 38 mm). This is a square photo that is smaller than a standard US passport photo, which is 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
Yes. The NY gun license photo is smaller at 1.5 x 1.5 inches compared to the standard passport photo which is 2 x 2 inches. While the background requirements (white/off-white) and pose rules are similar, the dimensions are different. You cannot submit a standard passport photo as-is for a gun license application.
The number of photos required may vary depending on the type of license and current NYPD requirements. Check with the NYPD License Division directly or visit their official website to confirm the exact number needed for your specific application.
Not directly. The NY gun license requires a 1.5 x 1.5 inch photo, while a passport photo is 2 x 2 inches. However, you can upload your existing passport photo to PassportPhoto.help and our tool will resize and crop it to the correct 1.5 x 1.5 inch dimensions while maintaining the proper head size ratio.
The background must be plain white or off-white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall available, don't worry -- our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
No. Glasses are not permitted in NY gun license photos. Remove all eyewear including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and decorative frames before taking the photo. A clear, unobstructed view of your eyes and facial features is required for identification purposes.
