Netherlands Driving Licence Photo Requirements 2026
The Dutch driving licence (rijbewijs) uses the same 35×45 mm biometric specification as the passport — plain light background, head 32–36 mm, no glasses. The RDW (Dutch vehicle authority) accepts the same photo standard as Rijksdienst voor Identiteitsgegevens, with the same strict rejection rules.
Key details
- Dutch driving licence and passport share the same 35×45 mm biometric specification.
- No glasses allowed since 2020 — same rule as passport and ID card.
- For first-time driving licence applications, a recent photo within the last six months is required.
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 accepted in practice. No shadows, no patterns.
Expression and eyes
Strictly neutral expression — no smile, no frown. Mouth closed. Both eyes open, looking directly at the camera.
Glasses
Since 2020, the Netherlands has banned glasses in biometric photos. You must remove them, including reading glasses.
Recency
The photo must have been taken within the last six months and must look exactly like you do now.
Frequently asked questions
What size for a Dutch driving licence photo? +
Can I wear glasses for the Dutch driving licence photo? +
Can I reuse my passport photo for the Dutch driving licence? +
Where do I bring my Dutch driving licence photo? +
Other documents in this country
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