Korean Driver’s License Photo Requirements by Application

This independent guide prioritizes current laws and public-agency guidance. It is not an official government, test-center or police website. Confirm changing fees and requirements with the responsible authority before applying.

For most Korean driver’s-license services, the basic photo is a recent color passport-style photo measuring 3.5 × 4.5 cm. The number of copies and any additional requirements depend on the service: a first-time test application, a Class 1 aptitude test, a Class 2 renewal, an International Driving Permit, or a reissue with a changed photo. This guide separates those workflows instead of treating one rule as universal.

Verification note. This article was checked against the Korea Road Traffic Authority’s Safe Driving service pages on September 10, 2026. Recheck the official page for your exact application immediately before filing.

Basic photo requirements

The recurring official standard is a color passport-style photo taken within six months and sized 3.5 × 4.5 cm. The first-test guidance also specifies a hatless upper-body photo taken without a background. Avoid heavy retouching, blur, deep shadows, or accessories that make identification difficult.

Online applications may require an image file rather than a printed photo. Keep the original digital file from the studio and follow the file-size and resolution instructions shown in the application screen.

How many copies are required?

First written-test application: three printed photos.
Class 1 aptitude test or Class 2 aptitude test for drivers aged 70 or older: normally two photos. The official page separately explains that one photo is needed when an eligible health-check record or medical certificate replaces the physical examination.
Class 2 renewal for a driver under 70: one photo.
International Driving Permit: one photo. The official IDP page additionally specifies a head length of 3.2–3.6 cm.
Loss or damage reissue: online reissue uses the photo already on file. A photo change requires a different, usually in-person, workflow.
Mobile driver’s license: a new photo may be requested if the registered image is unsuitable. The official page says one photo in that case, or two when combined with an aptitude test or renewal.

Special procedures, including a seven-year accident-free Class 1 conversion or certain retesting cases after cancellation, can require three photos. Always match the copy count to the exact service name.

Online versus in-person applications

Reissue using the existing photo

An online reissue for loss or damage is available when you keep the existing registered photo. If you want a new photo, confirm the in-person process with a driver’s-license examination office or police traffic service desk.

Renewal or aptitude test with an uploaded photo

Eligible applicants can upload a photo during the online process. Even after online filing, collection of the new physical license may require the applicant to appear at the selected office. Save the confirmation page and collection appointment.

Checklist before visiting a photo studio

Use a photo taken within the previous six months.
Ask for a 3.5 × 4.5 cm color passport-style photo.
Keep the face clearly identifiable and avoid a hat or face-covering accessories.
Request both printed copies and the original digital file if you may apply online.
For an IDP, tell the studio about the 3.2–3.6 cm head-length requirement.
Check the required number of copies for your exact service before leaving.

Common questions

Is there a universal numerical eyebrow-visibility rule?

The official driver’s-license service pages reviewed for this article do not state a universal “70% of the eyebrows” rule for every license photo. Follow the official acceptable-photo guidance and the requirements for your specific application.

Does the IDP head-length rule automatically apply to every domestic renewal?

The IDP page explicitly states the 3.2–3.6 cm head-length requirement. The domestic renewal page describes a 3.5 × 4.5 cm passport-style color photo. Do not automatically transfer every IDP detail to another workflow.

Can I reissue online without a new photo?

Yes, when the existing registered photo is reused. The official issuance guide states that an online loss or damage reissue cannot be used to change the photo.

Continue with a related guide

Official references

Last reviewed: September 10, 2026. This is an independent informational website, not a government agency or application representative. Requirements and fees can change; verify the official instructions before applying.