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🇰🇼 Kuwait Civil ID & License Resizer

Applying for a Kuwait Civil ID or Driving License? Use our free tool to crop photos to the standard 4x6 cm format. We support both White and Blue background requirements.

📄 4 x 6 cm 🔵 Blue Background (License) ⚪ White Background (ID)

Target Specifications

Dimensions:
4 cm x 6 cm
Digital:
480 x 720 px
Format:
JPG
Background:
White / Blue

🇰🇼 Ultimate Guide: Kuwait Civil ID & License Photo Requirements (2026)

Obtaining a Civil ID from the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) or a Driving License from the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait requires strict adherence to photo standards. Unlike many other countries where a single photo type works for everything, Kuwait has distinct requirements depending on the document type—specifically regarding the background color. This guide ensures your photo is accepted properly.

1. The "Blue vs. White" Background Rule

This is the most critical distinction in Kuwaiti government applications. Submitting the wrong color allows for immediate rejection.

🔵 Light Blue Background
  • Mandatory for: Kuwait Driving License (Private/Public/Motorbike).
  • Used for: Some Student IDs (University of Kuwait).
  • Why: The iconic "Blue Background" acts as a security feature and color-coding for traffic department files.
⚪ White Background
  • Mandatory for: Civil ID (PACI Smart Card).
  • Used for: Kuwait Visa (Visit, Work, Family).
  • Used for: Passport Renewal (Kuwaiti Nationals).
  • Why: International standard for biometric travel documents and digital IDs (Mobile ID App).

2. Official PACI Specifications

Attribute Requirement Notes
Dimensions 4 cm x 6 cm Standard "Six by Four" size.
Face Size 2.2 cm - 2.5 cm (Face width) Face must occupy 70-80% of height.
Background Blue (License) / White (Civil ID) Must be solid color, no gradients.
Pose Frontal View Looking straight at camera.

3. Detailed Visual Standards

A. Dress Code

  • Contrast: Since Civil ID uses a white background, do not wear white. For Driving License (Blue background), you can technically wear white, but dark colors (black suit, navy shirt) always look more professional and scan better.
  • Military/Uniforms: Military personnel must be photographed in uniform for official IDs.
  • Civilian: Smart casual or formal. No sleeveless shirts or tank tops.

B. Facial Biometrics

  • Expression: Serious/Neutral. No smiling. Mouth must be strictly closed.
  • Eyes: Level with the camera. No hair covering eyes or eyebrows.
  • Lighting: Flat, even lighting. No flash reflection on face or glasses.

4. Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Taking your photo at home is simple. Just follow these steps to save KWD 5-10 on studio fees:

Step 1: Choose Your Background Wall If applying for Civil ID, stand against a white wall. If applying for License, try to find a blue sheet or wall (or use our tool and we can try to adjust, but a real background is best).
Step 2: Distance & Camera Stand 1-1.5 meters away from the camera. Use the rear camera of a high-quality smartphone (iPhone/Samsung).
Step 3: Upload & Resize Upload the photo here. We will crop it to the exact 4x6 cm ratio required by PACI centers and Traffic Departments.
Step 4: Print (If needed) If you have an in-person appointment at South Surra (PACI HQ) or a Governate Traffic Dept, participate 4-8 copies on a 4x6 inch paper.

5. Common Rejection Reasons

Wrong Background

Submitting a blue photo for Civil ID (requires white) or white for License (requires blue) is the #1 error.

Retouched Photos

"Photoshop" editing that removes moles, changes eye color, or whitens skin is forbidden. Biometrics must match reality.

Teeth Visible

Even a small smile showing teeth is rejected. Keep mouth shut tight.

Reflection on Glasses

Flash glare on lenses obscures the eyes. Remove glasses to be safe.

6. Extensive FAQ

Q: I need a photo for "Kuwait Mobile ID" app?

The Kuwait Mobile ID (Huwiyati) app actually pulls the photo from the PACI database (your Civil ID photo). If you want to change it, you must update your physical Civil ID photo at PACI first.

Q: Does the Driving License photo size differ from Civil ID?

No, the physical size (4x6cm) is identical for both. Only the background color (Blue vs White) changes.

Q: Can women wear jewelry?

Small ear studs are acceptable if ears are visible. Large, dangling earrings or heavy necklaces that reflect light should be avoided.

Q: Where can I print these in Kuwait?

Any "Tasweer" (Photo Studio) in Co-ops or residential areas can print digital files. Alternatively, use a self-service kiosk if available in malls like Avenues or 360.

Ready to create your Kuwait photo?

Upload your selfie above and get a compliant Civil ID or License photo.

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