Why does a Singapore driving licence photo need both ears and eyebrows showing?
TL;DR Because the Traffic Police say so, and it is the one Singapore document that does. Citizens and PRs have the photo taken at the driving centre; a foreigner converting a foreign licence brings a passport-sized photo with both ears and both eyebrows visible and untinted spectacles.
Who brings a photo and who does not
For a Singapore citizen or PR passing the test, the driving centre takes the licence photo. There is nothing to prepare. The rule matters for a foreigner converting a licence from another country, who supplies the photo.
What "both ears and both eyebrows" does to a head covering
A tudung, turban or songkok is permitted, but it must sit back far enough that both ears and both eyebrows are fully visible — which many coverings cannot do while staying worn as intended. This site's tool keeps the covering and asks the model to show the ears; it will not remove it. If the covering cannot clear the ears, the photo will be refused, and it is better to know that before paying.
Driving licence vs passport photo
| Document | Size | Head in frame (as we compose it) | Background | Max age | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore driving licence | 35 × 45 mm | 56–78% | pure featureless white | 3 months | www.police.gov.sg |
| Singapore passport | 35 × 45 mm | 56–78% | pure featureless white | 3 months | www.ica.gov.sg |
A real case
A converting driver from India wore a turban to the Traffic Police counter and was asked for a new photo — the turban is fine, but it covered the ears. The second attempt, worn higher, showed both ears and was accepted.
Common questions
- Is it the same size as the passport photo?
- Yes — 35 × 45 mm, white background, the ICA baseline.
- Can I wear glasses?
- Untinted only. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are refused.
Related documents
- Singapore driving licence — 35 × 45 mm
Sources
Read on the issuing authority's own pages on the dates shown on each document page:
- Singapore driving licence: www.police.gov.sg
SGfoto is independent — not affiliated with or endorsed by any government or issuing authority — and does not guarantee acceptance. Requirements change; the authority's page is the one that counts. Rebuilt 2026-09-16.