First-Time ES Spain driving license 32x26 mm Application Tips - Beginner's Guide

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: exactly 32 mm high × 26 mm wide, measured after trimming—no deviation beyond ±5 mm
• Head size and position: head height (from chin to crown) must be 75–80 % of photo height (24–26 mm) and centered vertically and horizontally
• Background: uniform light gray or off-white, free of shadows, patterns or objects, with clear contrast between subject and background
• Facial expression and posture: neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible, facing camera straight-on with no tilt or turn
• Lighting and color: even, diffuse lighting avoiding reflections or red-eye; color photo with natural skin tones, printed on high-quality matte photographic paper
• Glasses and headwear: if worn daily, eyeglasses permitted only with clear, non-tinted lenses and minimal frames not obscuring eyes; no hats or head coverings unless for documented religious reasons, and they must not cast shadows or hide facial features
• Recency: photo taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance
• Quality and print standards: sharp focus with no pixelation or printing artifacts, no watermarks or photographic studio imprints, printed at a professional photo lab (not home-inkjet)
• Identification marking: lightly write your full name and national ID/passport number in pencil on the back of the photo to prevent mix-ups
• Attachment and handling: affix photo flat onto application form with photo-safe adhesive or photo corners—do not staple through the image area or fold the corners
• Submission format: submit two identical photos (one for the card file and one for auxiliary records) unless otherwise instructed by your provincial Traffic Office (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico)
• Backup digital file: keep a 300 dpi JPEG or TIFF copy of the approved photo in case of future renewals or replacements

Step-by-Step Process

Content about First-Time ES Spain driving license 32x26 mm Application Tips - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Exact Dimensions: ensure your photo measures precisely 32 × 26 mm by using professional cropping tools or a studio service, because submitting a 35 × 45 mm print or freehand crop leads to immediate rejection.
• Uniform Background: use a plain light-colored (preferably off-white or pale gray) background with no shadows or patterns, as uneven lighting or busy backdrops can obscure facial features and fail the Spanish license office’s contrast checks.
• Head Position & Size: position your head centrally so it occupies about 70–80 % of the frame height and your eyes lie roughly 60–70 % up from the bottom, since off-center shots or incorrect head-to-photo ratios trigger automated rejection.
• Neutral Expression & Visibility: keep a natural, relaxed face with closed mouth, eyes fully open, and no hair covering your eyes or eyebrows, because smiles, tilts, or hidden features prevent accurate identity verification.
• Print Quality & Paper Type: use high-resolution (minimum 600 dpi) color printing on matte or semi-matte photo paper without ink smudges or reflections, as low-quality prints or glossy finishes can blur details under UV inspection and result in a failed application.

Conclusion

Conclusion

By adhering to these First-Time ES Spain Driving License 32×26 mm Application Tips, you’ll minimize the risk of photo rejection and application delays:

• Photo dimensions: 32 mm wide × 26 mm high with the face occupying 70–80% of the frame
• Background & lighting: uniform white or light gray backdrop, no shadows or reflections
• Facial requirements: full front view, neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Accessories & attire: no glasses, hats or head coverings (unless for religious reasons), hair off the face
• Technical quality: high-resolution color print (300 dpi+), no retouching or filters, recent (≤ 6 months old)
• Document checklist: completed EX-02 form, valid ID, proof of address, medical certificate, payment receipt
• Appointment & submission: book online via DGT portal, arrive early, submit originals and copies together

Following these guidelines ensures compliance with DGT standards, expedites processing and brings you one step closer to hitting the road in Spain.