China ID Card Photo
Create a China Resident ID Card (居民身份证) photo that meets Public Security Bureau standards. 26x32mm, white background, 358x441 pixels per GA 461-2004.
Photo Specifications
- ✓Size: 26x32mm (358x441 pixels at 350 DPI)
- ✓Background: pure white (纯白色)
- ✓Face width: 15±1mm between ear roots
- ✓Dark-colored clothing required (no white tops)
- ✓No uniforms, school uniforms, or work clothing
Application Process
- 1
Prepare Required Materials
Bring your household registration booklet (户口簿). For applicants under 16, a guardian must accompany with their own ID.
- 2
Visit Local Public Security Bureau
Go to the household registration office (派出所/户籍科) where your hukou is registered. Fill out the ID Card Application Form (居民身份证申领登记表).
- 3
Have Photo Taken On-Site
Your photo is captured at the police station using standardized equipment. Wear dark-colored clothing with a standard collar. Regular glasses wearers must wear their glasses.
- 4
Provide Fingerprint Biometrics
Both index fingers are scanned. If unavailable, other fingers are used per the designated sequence.
- 5
Pay Application Fee
First-time or renewal: 20 RMB (~$2.75). Lost/damaged replacement: 40 RMB. Temporary ID: 10 RMB.
- 6
Collect Your ID Card
Return to pick up your card or opt for express mail delivery. Standard processing: 15-60 days depending on location.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✕Wearing white or light-colored clothing — blends with the white background
- ✕Wearing uniforms, military, police, or school clothing
- ✕Hair covering eyes, eyebrows, or ears — bangs must be swept aside
- ✕Heavy makeup or cosmetic alteration that changes facial appearance
- ✕Accessories obstructing the face — large earrings, scarves, decorative glasses
- ✕Dyed hair in unnatural colors may be flagged by the verification system
Helpful Tips
- 💡Wear a dark-colored top with a collar — navy, dark gray, or black are safe choices
- 💡Keep your face clean and natural — wash off oil and sweat, avoid heavy makeup
- 💡Ensure hair is tidy and off the face — ears should be visible, no bangs covering forehead
- 💡Practice a natural, relaxed expression — look directly at camera with eyes open normally
Official Information
Authority
Ministry of Public Security (公安部)
Cost
20 RMB (~$2.75) first-time/renewal; 40 RMB replacement; 10 RMB temporary ID
Processing: 15-60 days (standard); temporary ID within 3 working days
Validity
Under 16: 5 years. Age 16-25: 10 years. Age 26-45: 20 years. Over 46: permanent.
FAQ — China ID Card Photo
Generally no. The photo must be taken at the designated Public Security Bureau using standardized equipment. Some cities have pilot programs with pre-approved photo studios.
Yes, if you regularly wear glasses. Frames must not obstruct your eyes and there should be no glare. Decorative non-prescription glasses are not permitted.
Apply for a Temporary Resident ID Card (临时居民身份证) for 10 RMB, issued within 3 working days. It is valid for 3 months.
Yes. Since 2017, China offers cross-region ID card service (异地办理) for renewals and replacements at any participating Public Security Bureau. First-time applications still require visiting your hukou location.
Yes. The national standard GA 461-2004 specifies pure white background. No other background color is accepted for the second-generation Resident ID Card.