Germany International Driving Permit (Internationaler Führerschein) Photo 2026
The Internationaler Führerschein is a paper translation booklet that accompanies your German (EU) driving licence when driving abroad; it is issued by your local driving-licence office (Führerscheinstelle) and is typically valid for three years. It requires one passport-style photo of 35×45 mm — frontal view, neutral expression, plain light background. This is a standard passport photo, not a biometric government-chip document.
Key details
- You apply in person at the Führerscheinstelle / Straßenverkehrsamt; online application is generally not possible.
- The photo is a normal 35×45 mm passport photo and does not have to meet the strict biometric passport standard, though a compliant photo is always accepted.
- The IDP is only valid together with your national driving licence, which you must carry alongside it.
Shared rules with the country overview
These apply to every document this country issues — see the full breakdown on the country page.
Background
Plain light grey is the official requirement. Pure white is also widely accepted in practice. No patterns, no shadows behind the head.
Expression and eyes
Strictly neutral expression with mouth closed. Both eyes open, looking directly into the camera. Smiling is explicitly disallowed for biometric photos.
Glasses
Glasses are discouraged. If worn, no reflections on the lenses, no tinted lenses, and the eyes must be fully visible. Thick frames covering the eyes will be rejected.
Recency
The photo must have been taken within the last six months and must reflect your current appearance.
Frequently asked questions
How many photos do I need for the international driving permit? +
Does the photo have to be biometric? +
Where do I apply? +
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