International Driving Permit (IDP) Photo Requirements in 2026: USA, UK, Canada, and Australia
USA, 
United Kingdom, Australia, 
Canada
In short. In 2026, International Driving Permit (IDP) photo requirements depend on the country: USA (2x2 inches), UK (35x45 mm), Canada (50x70 mm).
- In 2026, IDP photo requirements remain strictly tied to the national passport standards of each country.
- The USA (AAA) requires two 2x2 inch (51x51 mm) photos, signed on the back.
- In the UK (PayPoint), one 35x45 mm photo is sufficient.
- Canada (CAA) requires two 50x70 mm photos taken no more than 2 years before applying.
- Australia (AAA) accepts one 35-40 x 45-50 mm photo taken within the last 6 months.
Obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) requires providing physical photographs, the dimensions and rules for which are strictly regulated by the issuing country. In 2026, standards vary from the classic 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) in the USA to 50x70 mm in Canada. Since the IDP is a physical booklet (according to the 1949 and 1968 UN conventions), digital versions are not issued, and photos must be printed on high-quality photo paper.
Comparison Table of IDP Photo Requirements (2026)
| Country and Organization | Photo Size | Quantity | IDP Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA (AAA) | 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) | 2 pcs. | $20 USD |
| UK (PayPoint) | 35x45 mm | 1 pc. | £5.50 |
| Canada (CAA) | 50x70 mm | 2 pcs. | $32 CAD |
| Australia (AAA) | 35-40 x 45-50 mm | 1 pc. | $55 AUD |
Detailed Requirements by Country
USA (American Automobile Association — AAA)
In the United States, the only organization authorized by the US Department of State to issue IDPs is AAA. To apply (in person or by mail), you must provide:
- Size: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) — standard US passport photo.
- Quantity: 2 identical photos.
- Special requirement: Both photos must be signed by the applicant on the back.
- Background: Plain white.
UK (PayPoint)
Since April 2024, the IDP issuance process in the UK has changed — they can now be obtained not at Post Office branches, but at PayPoint partner stores. Photo requirements:
- Size: 35x45 mm (standard UK passport photo).
- Quantity: 1 photo.
- Requirements: The photo must be recent and be a true likeness of the applicant.
Canada (Canadian Automobile Association — CAA)
In Canada, CAA has the exclusive right to issue IDPs. Canadian photo requirements differ from most European countries:
- Size: 50x70 mm (2 x 2¾ inches) — standard Canadian passport photo. The face must measure between 31 and 36 mm from chin to crown.
- Quantity: 2 identical photos.
- Validity period: Photos must be taken no more than 2 years before the time of application.
- Special requirement: Scanned or computer-generated images are not accepted.
Australia (Australian Automobile Association — AAA)
In Australia, the IDP is issued through state and territory motoring clubs (e.g., RACQ, RACT) on behalf of AAA. Photo requirements:
- Size: 35-40 mm in width and 45-50 mm in height (standard Australian passport photo).
- Quantity: 1 photo.
- Validity period: Taken no more than 6 months before applying.
- Background: Plain white.
General Rules for Physical Printed Photos
Regardless of the issuing country, strict international standards (ICAO) apply to International Driving Permit photos:
- Paper quality: Photos must be printed on high-quality photo paper. Regular office paper is not accepted.
- Glasses: In most countries (including the USA and Australia), wearing glasses in photos is prohibited to avoid glare and obscuring facial features.
- Facial expression: Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, eyes looking straight at the camera.
- Lighting: Even lighting with no shadows on the face or background.
Rules change frequently — always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above before taking action.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- Can digital photos be used for an IDP?
- No, the International Driving Permit is a physical booklet, so printed photos on high-quality photo paper are required for its issuance.
- Do I need to sign the photos on the back?
- It depends on the country. For example, the USA (AAA) requires both photos to be signed on the back, while there is no such requirement in the UK or Australia.
- Can I wear glasses in an IDP photo?
- Most countries, including the USA and Australia, prohibit wearing glasses in photos for official documents to avoid glare.
- What is the validity period of an International Driving Permit?
- Depending on the convention (1949 or 1968) and the issuing country, an IDP is valid for 1 to 3 years, but no longer than the validity period of your national driver's license.