Korean Driver’s License Photo Requirements

Overview

Korean driver’s licenses require specific 35×45 mm photos that comply with Road Traffic Authority standards. Whether you’re getting your first license, renewing, or converting a foreign license, proper photos are essential.

Photo Specifications

Exact Dimensions

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (width × height)
• Face height: 32–36 mm (from chin to top of head)
• Face-to-photo ratio: 70-80% of total height
• Position: Centered horizontally and vertically

Technical Requirements

• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for printing
• Digital format: High-quality JPEG
• File size: 100 KB to 2 MB
• Color: Full color required
• Background: Plain white or light blue
• Quality: Sharp, clear, and professionally taken

Facial Requirements

• Expression: Neutral, serious expression
• Eyes: Open, looking directly at camera
• Mouth: Closed, no smiling
• Head position: Straight, facing forward
• Recent: Taken within last 6 months

Korean Driver’s License Types

Class 1 Regular (1종 보통)

• Vehicles: Cars, small trucks, motorcycles
• Age requirement: 18+ years
• Validity: 10 years (5 years for seniors 65+)
• Renewal: Required before expiration

Class 2 Regular (2종 보통)

• Vehicles: Small cars, automatic transmission
• Age requirement: 18+ years
• Validity: 10 years (5 years for seniors 65+)
• Limitations: No manual transmission, limited vehicle size

Class 1 Large (1종 대형)

• Vehicles: Large trucks, buses
• Age requirement: 19+ years
• Experience: 1+ years with Class 1 Regular
• Validity: 5 years

Motorcycle License (원동기)

• Vehicles: Motorcycles up to 125cc
• Age requirement: 16+ years
• Validity: 10 years
• Test: Written test only

Application Process

New License Application

• Written test: Traffic laws and regulations
• Practical test: Driving skills assessment
• Medical check: Vision and health examination
• Photos: Two identical 35×45 mm photos
• Fee: ₩28,500-35,000 depending on class

License Renewal

• Application form: Completed renewal form
• Current license: Original license
• Photos: Two new 35×45 mm photos
• Medical check: Vision test required
• Fee: ₩7,500-10,000

Foreign License Conversion

• Original license: Valid foreign license
• Translation: Official Korean translation
• Residence proof: ARC or registration
• Photos: Two identical 35×45 mm photos
• Test: May require written or practical test

Testing Centers and Locations

Major Testing Centers

• Seoul: Gangnam, Dobong, Gangseo centers
• Busan: Buk-gu, Sasang-gu centers
• Incheon: Namdong-gu, Seo-gu centers
• Daegu: Dalseo-gu, Dong-gu centers

Services Available

• Written tests: Available in multiple languages
• Practical tests: Standardized driving courses
• Photo services: On-site photo booths available
• Medical checks: Vision and health screenings

Appointment System

• Online booking: Through safedriving.or.kr
• Phone reservations: Available for most centers
• Walk-ins: Limited availability
• Peak times: Avoid weekends and holidays

Photo Guidelines and Standards

Acceptable Requirements

• Natural appearance: Minimal makeup, natural look
• Prescription glasses: Clear lenses, no reflections
• Contact lenses: Colored contacts not recommended
• Hair: Neat, not covering face or ears

Prohibited Elements

• Facial expressions: Smiling, frowning, or unusual expressions
• Sunglasses: Any tinted or dark glasses
• Hats or headwear: Not permitted except religious reasons
• Heavy makeup: Dramatic appearance changes
• Digital filters: Any photo editing or beauty filters

Background Standards

• Color: Plain white or light blue
• Uniformity: No patterns, shadows, or textures
• Lighting: Professional, even lighting
• Quality: High-resolution, clear background

Where to Get License Photos

At Testing Centers

• Photo booths: Available at most centers
• Instant service: Photos ready in 2-3 minutes
• Compliance: Guaranteed to meet requirements
• Cost: ₩5,000-8,000

Professional Studios

• Near testing centers: Photo shops in vicinity
• Experience: Familiar with license requirements
• Quality: Professional lighting and equipment
• Cost: ₩8,000-15,000

Convenient Options

• Department stores: Photo services in major stores
• Subway stations: Photo booths in stations
• Online services: Upload and print options
• Cost: ₩5,000-12,000

Recommended Locations by City

Seoul

• Gangnam Testing Center: Multiple photo shops nearby
• Dobong Center: Affordable options in area
• Gangseo Center: Quick service near airport
• Myeongdong: Tourist-friendly photo services

Busan

• Sasang Testing Center: Several photo studios
• Buk-gu Center: Local photo services
• Seomyeon: Central location with options

Other Cities

• Incheon: Near airport and testing centers
• Daegu: Downtown and testing center areas
• Daejeon: University area photo services

Common Issues and Rejections

Photo Quality Problems

• Wrong size: Not exactly 35×45 mm dimensions
• Poor quality: Blurry, pixelated, or low resolution
• Background issues: Wrong color or has patterns
• Lighting problems: Shadows, glare, or poor exposure

Facial Compliance Issues

• Expression: Inappropriate facial expressions
• Eye problems: Closed eyes, looking away, red-eye
• Hair issues: Covering face, ears, or creating shadows
• Accessory problems: Inappropriate glasses or jewelry

Technical Issues

• Old photos: Taken more than 6 months ago
• Digital editing: Obvious filters or retouching
• Print quality: Poor paper or printing standards
• Cropping errors: Incorrect face positioning or size

Special Considerations

For Foreigners

• Language support: Tests available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese
• Document requirements: ARC and passport required
• Conversion process: May vary by country of origin
• Additional fees: Translation and verification costs

For Seniors (65+)

• Shorter validity: 5-year license periods
• Medical requirements: Enhanced health checks
• Renewal frequency: More frequent renewals required
• Assistance: Family member assistance allowed

For Young Drivers (18-21)

• Probationary period: Special restrictions apply
• Additional training: May require extra education
• Parent consent: Required for minors
• Insurance: Higher insurance requirements

Fees and Costs (2024)

License Fees

• Class 1 Regular: ₩35,000
• Class 2 Regular: ₩28,500
• Motorcycle: ₩25,000
• Renewal: ₩7,500-10,000

Testing Fees

• Written test: ₩6,000
• Practical test: ₩25,000
• Retest: Same fees apply
• Medical check: ₩5,000

Photo Costs

• Testing center booth: ₩5,000-8,000
• Professional studio: ₩8,000-15,000
• Convenience options: ₩5,000-12,000
• Additional copies: ₩2,000-5,000

Additional Costs

• Driving lessons: ₩300,000-500,000
• Practice sessions: ₩30,000-50,000 per session
• Translation services: ₩15,000-30,000
• Document fees: ₩5,000-15,000

Tips for Success

Preparation

• Study materials: Use official Korean study guides
• Practice tests: Take online practice exams
• Driving practice: Get familiar with Korean traffic rules
• Photo preparation: Ensure compliance before test day

Test Day

• Arrive early: Allow time for check-in and photos
• Bring documents: All required paperwork and ID
• Dress appropriately: Professional appearance for photos
• Stay calm: Manage test anxiety and stress

After Getting License

• Insurance: Obtain required car insurance
• Registration: Register vehicle if purchasing
• Traffic rules: Continue learning Korean traffic laws
• Renewal reminders: Set calendar reminders for renewal

Need compliant photos for your Korean driver’s license? Our AI-powered tool ensures your photos meet all Road Traffic Authority requirements for quick approval.