How to get a passport photo for your South African international driving permit

Are you applying for an international driving permit (IDP) in South Africa? One crucial step is providing a suitable passport photo that meets the official requirements. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your passport photo is accepted the first time.

Photo size and specifications

Your passport photo for a South African firearms license must meet specific size requirements:

  • Your IDP passport photo should be 35×45 mm in size, with your face centered. 
  • The photo must be in color, well-lit, and have a plain white or light background. 
  • Keep a neutral facial expression and look directly at the camera.
  • High-quality photo paper is essential for printing your passport photo
  • Your face should occupy about 70-80% of the total photo area
  • Ensure your facial features are clearly visible
  • Pay attention to lighting to avoid shadows or glare on your face

Number of photos required

You’ll need to submit 2 identical passport photos with your South African IDP application. Having an extra photo is always a good idea in case one gets lost or damaged during processing.

Submitting your passport photo

When using the Smartphone iD app to take your IDP passport photo, simply follow the guided process to capture your photo. Our app ensures the lighting, background, and framing meet the official standards. Once you’re satisfied with the photo, submit it directly through the app along with your IDP application form and other required documents.

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