Polish ID card photo rules in plain words
Gov.pl accepts printed and online photos for the Dowod Osobisty. A printed photo is 35x45 mm (1.38 x 1.77 in) at 300 DPI. For an online application the photo must be a colour JPEG of at least 492x633 pixels in 35:45 proportion and at most 2.5 MB. IDPhotoly produces a 413x531 px file as standard, so if you apply online, check the 492x633 px minimum before you upload.
- Head size: 31.5-36 mm from chin to crown, which is the face filling 70-80% of the photo.
- Background: white, evenly lit, with no shadows.
- Age of photo: taken within the last 6 months.
- Glasses: allowed if there is no glare.
- Head covering: religious only, with the face fully visible.
How to take the photo at home with a phone
Stand in front of a plain white wall and face the light from a window. Hold the phone at eye height, look straight into the lens and keep a neutral expression. Take the picture from a distance that lets you fill most of the frame with your face while leaving some space above the hair.
- Check glasses for reflections, or take them off.
- Stand a little away from the wall to avoid shadows behind your head.
- Do not wear a hat or other headwear unless it is religious.
IDPhotoly processes the image in your browser without uploading it, crops it to 35x45 mm, replaces the background with white and checks the face proportion.
Common reasons for rejection
- Online file too small. The photo must be at least 492x633 px.
- File over 2.5 MB. The online limit is 2560 KB.
- Black-and-white image. An online photo must be in colour.
- Shadows on the background. A white, evenly lit background is required.
- Old photo. It must be taken within 6 months.
Printing or uploading
For a paper application, print 1 copy at 35x45 mm and 300 DPI on photo paper. For an online application, upload a JPEG within the size limits above. Payment is one-time, and you receive a full refund if an authority rejects the photo.
Tips for a clean result
Keep your shoulders level and your head upright, and avoid filters. Use the same file that passed the compliance check.
Final checks before you submit
Choose the route first. If you apply online, view the file at full size and confirm that your whole face is clear and that the dimensions meet the stated minimum. If you apply at the office, ask the print shop for the exact 35x45 mm size on photo paper, and check the print with a ruler before you leave. Either way, a plain white background and even lighting are what the officials check first.