What is the aspect ratio of a driver's license photo?
3 Answers
The photo for a driver's license is a standard one-inch photo. It has strict requirements for size and format. The specific dimensions are 3.2CM in height and 2.2CM in width. The length of the head should be between 1.9CM and 2.2CM, and the width should be between 1.4CM and 1.6CM. There are also requirements for the background, which must be white. Only photos that meet the above requirements can pass, as driver's license photos require a receipt, and the photos will be reviewed during verification. This also means that photos that can obtain a receipt are all compliant with the requirements.
The driver's license photo has specific ratio requirements. I've looked this up, and the photo size must be 32mm by 22mm, which is roughly an aspect ratio of 1.45:1. This small one-inch photo looks quite compact, so when taking the picture, make sure the head size meets the standard: the distance from the top of the head to the chin should be between 19mm and 22mm. It's best to take the photo in a studio with a pure white background, and wearing dark-colored clothing will make you look sharper—just remember not to wear hats or earrings. If you're taking a selfie with your phone and printing it later, be extra careful when adjusting the photo ratio, or else the DMV might reject it, and you'll have to retake it. This size is similar to the ID card photo ratio, but the specific requirements are slightly different, so it's best to clarify beforehand. Keep your expression natural when taking the photo—looking too serious might appear stiff.
The dimensions for driver's license photos are set at 32mm × 22mm, which calculates to an aspect ratio of approximately 1.45:1. This size is quite particular, so special attention must be paid to ensure the head position is not offset during the photo session. Last year when I reapplied for my license, my photo was rejected because it didn't meet the standards—even having hair covering the eyebrows was unacceptable. It's recommended to have the photo studio adjust the size directly, as their professional equipment ensures more accurate proportions. Remember to wear a dark-colored round-neck shirt, as light-colored clothing may blend with the white background. The photo must be taken within the last six months; don't try to use an old photo from five years ago. Nowadays, some DMVs have self-service photo booths that automatically crop to the correct ratio when you select the driver's license photo mode, making it much more convenient than doing it yourself.
