UDAAN DCGA Photo Size Requirements for IN (2025 Update)

By AI Assistant 731 words 4 min read

As India’s UDAAN DCGA program propels thousands of young aviation enthusiasts toward their pilot and cabin crew dreams, one seemingly small detail can make or break your application: the passport-style photograph. Rigidly enforced by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), these photo size requirements are designed to ensure uniformity and clear identification on official records. From the precise 35 mm × 45 mm dimensions to the unblemished white background and exact head-positioning rules, every millimeter counts. Mastering these specifications upfront not only smooths your journey through the application process but also keeps you firmly on course for takeoff.

Requirements

  • Photo dimensions: 51 × 51 mm (2 × 2 inches) with the head centered and surrounded by ample space
  • Head size & position: face height 35–40 mm (from chin to crown) occupying 70–80% of the frame
  • Background: plain white or very light grey, uniformly lit with no shadows or patterns
  • Color & quality: high‐resolution color print, sharp focus, true‐to‐life skin tones, no ink blotches or pixelation
  • Expression & pose: full-face view, neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and looking directly at camera
  • Eye position: eyeballs centered horizontally, pupils 28–35 mm from bottom edge of photo
  • Attire: plain, dark-colored clothing with no uniforms or camouflage patterns; collars visible; no large accessories
  • Headgear & glasses: no hats or head coverings except for religious reasons (must not obscure hairline or cast shadows); glasses without tinted lenses or glare
  • Recency & number of copies: taken within the last 6 months; submit four identical prints
  • Paper & print finish: matte or semi-gloss photo paper with even color density and no creases, tears, or staple marks

Step-by-Step Process

Content about UDAAN DCGA Photo Size Requirements for IN - process

Tips and Best Practices

  • Dimensions Accuracy: Follow the 35×45 mm size and 32–36 mm head-height spec using a printed template or precise crop tool to avoid oversized or undersized prints—a top cause of DCGA photo rejections.
  • Head Positioning Precision: Center your face with eyes 15–20 mm from the top edge to meet UDAAN DCGA framing rules—off-center shots often trigger manual rejections and delay approvals.
  • Background Uniformity: Use a plain white or off-white non-textured backdrop with no shadows to satisfy DCGA clarity standards—uneven or colored backgrounds are one of the most common failure reasons.
  • Lighting and Exposure: Illuminate evenly from both sides and eliminate glare on glasses to preserve natural skin tones—poor lighting or harsh shadows lead to instant disqualification by automated DCGA checks.
  • Print Quality & Paper: Produce on matte-finish, heavyweight (≥200 gsm) photo paper at 600 dpi or higher via a certified lab to prevent pixelation, smudges, or curling—low-quality prints risk being outright rejected.

Conclusion

Conclusion: Adhering strictly to UDAAN DCGA photo specifications ensures your Indian drone operator application is processed without delays or rejections. Key requirements at a glance:

  • Photo dimensions: 45 mm height × 35 mm width
  • Head size: 25–30 mm from chin to crown of head
  • Background: plain white or light-colored, uniform, no shadows
  • Expression: neutral facial expression, mouth closed, eyes open, direct gaze
  • Attire: no glasses frames glare, no tinted lenses, no headgear except for recognized religious purposes
  • Quality: color print, matte finish, high resolution (min. 600 dpi), printed on smooth, non-glossy paper
  • Recency: photograph taken within the last 3 months
  • Digital file specs: JPEG format, 350–600 KB file size, no compression artifacts

By confirming each point above, you’ll meet UDAAN DCGA standards and keep your application on course.

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