EE Estonia driving license 35x45 mm Photo Requirements Guide - Official Guidelines

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: must be exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm high, with no cropping or white borders
• Head height: distance from chin to top of the head must measure 32–36 mm (71–80 % of photo height)
• Eye position: vertical distance from the bottom edge of the photo to the eyes must be 18–22 mm
• Recent capture: photo must be taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance
• Background: plain, uniform light gray or white with no patterns, textures, shadows or objects
• Facial expression: neutral—mouth closed or slightly parted, no smiling or frowning, both eyes open and clearly visible
• Head orientation: direct, frontal view; head straight (no tilt), shoulders squared and visible but not dominating the frame
• Glasses rules: permitted if non-tinted lenses, slim frames only, no glare or reflections, eyes fully visible and unobstructed
• Head coverings: allowed solely for religious reasons; must not obscure any facial features from hairline to chin or both edges of the face
• No accessories: remove hats, scarves (unless for religious reasons), headphones, large jewelry or items that cover part of the face
• Lighting and shadows: even, balanced lighting to avoid shadows on the face or background; no red-eye or hot spots
• Color and print quality: high-resolution color photo (minimum 600 dpi), true-to-life skin tones, printed on quality photographic paper (matte or glossy)
• Image clarity: sharp focus with no blur, pixelation, over- or under-exposure; fine facial details (wrinkles, eyebrows) must be discernible
• Framing and margins: entire head plus upper shoulders must be visible; leave at least 5 mm margin between the top of the head and the photo edge
• No digital alterations: do not digitally retouch or manipulate features (e.g., removing blemishes or changing hair color)

Step-by-Step Process

Content about EE Estonia driving license 35x45 mm Photo Requirements Guide - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Perfect dimensions: use exactly 35×45 mm size and correct orientation; wrong dimensions trigger instant rejection by Estonian digital ID systems
• Precise head placement: position crown 3 mm below top and chin 35 mm above bottom edge; misplacement leads to automatic cropping errors and photo refusal
• Uniform background: opt for solid white or very light grey with no shadows or patterns; busy or inconsistent backgrounds obscure face contours and break guidelines
• Balanced lighting: employ diffused frontal light to avoid harsh shadows and glare; poor lighting hides facial features and causes retakes
• Neutral expression & no accessories: keep mouth closed, eyes open, remove hats and all glasses except thin-framed clear lenses; accessories and smiles distort ID features and violate rules

Conclusion

In conclusion, ensuring your Estonia driving license photo meets all specifications will prevent delays and rejections. Key requirements at a glance:

• Photo dimensions: exactly 35 × 45 mm
• Head size & position: 32–36 mm from chin to crown; eyes 17–20 mm from bottom edge
• Expression & gaze: neutral face; closed mouth; direct, open-eyed look
• Background: plain light-gray; no shadows or patterns
• Image quality: high-resolution color; sharp focus; no red-eye or over/under-exposure
• Framing & alignment: head centered; vertical orientation; no tilt
• Attire & accessories: everyday clothing; no hats or sunglasses; small, non-reflective jewelry allowed
• Photo age: captured within the last 6 months
• Print & file specs: smooth matte or glossy paper for prints; JPEG/PNG at minimum 600 dpi for digital submissions

By following these precise guidelines, you’ll secure an approved photo on your first attempt and fast-track your Estonian driving license application.