ID photos · Glasses guide
Shooting guide / 07Can you wear glasses in an ID photo?
Check the submission rules, lens glare and whether the frame covers your eyes before deciding to remove your glasses.
If you wear glasses every day, it is natural to wonder whether you should take them off for an ID photo. The answer depends on where the photo will be used. Passport, visa, driver’s license, school and employer requirements can differ, so check the receiving authority first.
For a South Korean passport photo, glasses are not automatically prohibited. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says reflected light must not appear on the lenses and the frames must not cover the eyes. Tinted glasses and sunglasses are not allowed.
Check the submission rules before removing your glasses
For a South Korean passport photo, follow the current specifications published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Glasses may be worn, but there must be no glare on the lenses and the frames must not cover the eyes. Tinted lenses and sunglasses are not permitted.
Driver’s licenses, visas, schools and employers may set different requirements. A studio’s general guidance cannot replace the receiving authority’s rules. If the instructions are unclear, ask the authority before your photo session.
Check the light and camera angle when a lens reflects
A bright reflection can make the eyes or gaze harder to see. Check both lenses in the preview and make sure the pupils and gaze remain clear. For photos that require a straight-on pose, such as a passport photo, adjust the lighting or camera position instead of turning your head to hide glare.
Clean fingerprints and dust from the lenses before the session. If glare remains, the photographer can adjust the light and check another frame. For official submissions, retake a glare-free photo instead of editing the reflection out.
Make sure the frame does not cover your brows or eyes
A thick frame crossing the pupils or covering the brows can hide the shape of your eyes. Wear your usual glasses, look straight ahead and check whether the frame overlaps your eyes or brows. Adjust the fit so the glasses do not slide down your nose.
You do not need to buy new glasses in a hurry. Bring the pair that fits comfortably. If you already own another frame, you can compare both in the preview after confirming that the submission rules allow it.
Bring these three things to your photo session
1. Check the photo’s purpose and the receiving authority’s requirements. 2. Bring your usual glasses and a lens cloth. 3. Review eye clarity, lens glare and frame position in the captured photo.
South Korean passport photos cannot be arbitrarily edited, composited or generated with photo-editing software or AI. Do not confuse an illustrative image with a submission photo, and follow the authority’s official instructions for capture and editing.
FAQ
Questions before taking an ID photo with glasses
Are glasses forbidden in South Korean passport photos?
Glasses are not automatically prohibited. Under the Ministry’s guidance, there must be no lens glare and the frames must not cover the eyes. Tinted lenses and sunglasses are not allowed; check the latest official requirements.
Can lens glare be removed in photo editing?
South Korean passport photos cannot be arbitrarily edited, altered, composited or generated using photo-editing software or AI. Adjust the shooting conditions and retake the photo if glare appears.
Do driver’s license and visa photos follow the same glasses rules?
Requirements can differ by issuing authority and destination. Do not assume passport rules apply to another ID or visa; check the current instructions from the relevant authority.