Brazil RG (Registro Geral) photos must be 30×40mm — the classic "3×4" format used across Brazilian identity documents. This is different from the Brazilian passport, which requires a 50×70mm photo. The RG uses a smaller format. A natural smile is permitted, but glasses are not allowed.
The RG is Brazil's principal national identity card, issued at the state level by the Secretaria de Segurança Pública (SSP) or the Instituto de Identificação in each state. See the Brazil document photo overview to compare all Brazilian document photo specs side by side.
Brazil RG Identity Card Photo Specifications
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Print size | 30×40mm (3×4cm) |
| Digital size | 354×472 pixels |
| Resolution | 300 DPI |
| Background | White |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Smile | Allowed |
| Expression | Natural |
| File format | JPEG |
Get a compliant passport photo online
RG vs Brazilian Passport: Size Comparison
| Document | Photo Size | Smile Allowed? | Glasses Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brazilian Passport | 50×70mm | No | No |
| RG (Registro Geral) | 30×40mm | Yes | No |
This is a significant difference. Brazilians applying for an international passport must use a larger photo, with a neutral expression and no glasses. The domestic RG uses the classic 3×4 format and allows smiling, but glasses are not permitted for either document.
If you have recent passport photos in your wallet, don't use them for the RG. They're the wrong size.
The 3×4 Photo Format in Brazil: What It Means
"3×4" refers to centimetres: 3cm wide by 4cm tall. This is 30×40mm, or roughly 354×472 pixels at 300 DPI. The 3×4 format is used not just for the RG but for the CNH (driver's licence), the CTPS (work card), and a range of other Brazilian documents and applications — school enrolment, professional licences, bank account openings, and more.
In Brazil, "foto 3×4" means something very specific. Walk into any photography studio, any pharmacy with a photo booth, and ask for "foto 3×4" — they'll know exactly what you need. Millions of these photos are taken in Brazil every year.
Where to Get Brazil RG Photos Taken and Printed
Photo studios (estúdios fotográficos)
Professional studios produce the highest-quality 3×4 photos. Many offer immediate printing in sets of 3 or 6. Prices vary by region but typically run BRL 10–25 for a set of prints.
Pharmacies and convenience stores (casas lotéricas, farmácias)
Many Brazilian pharmacies and lottery shops have self-service photo booths. Quality is generally good. The machine will print a sheet of multiple 3×4 photos.
Home printing
If you print at home, use 300 DPI with photo-quality glossy paper. Print the 30×40mm dimension precisely. Matte or regular paper prints are often rejected.
Applying for the RG Identity Card in Brazil
The RG is issued by the state government. The issuing body varies by state:
- São Paulo: Poupatempo network (online booking via portal.poupatempo.sp.gov.br)
- Rio de Janeiro: Instituto de Identificação Felix Pacheco (IIFP)
- Minas Gerais: Polícia Civil / PCMG
- Bahia: SSP-BA service centres
- Other states: Local SSP or Instituto de Identificação office
In most states, you can book an appointment online. Walk-ins are accepted at many locations but may involve long waits during peak periods.
Documents needed for a first-time RG:
- Birth certificate (certidão de nascimento) or equivalent
- Proof of residency (comprovante de residência)
- CPF number (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas)
- 3×4 photo (requirements vary by state; some capture digitally, others require a printed photo)
First issuance is free in all states. Replacement for a lost or damaged card carries a fee in some states (typically BRL 30–50).
The Transition from RG to CIN (Carteira de Identidade Nacional)
Brazil is phasing out the old multi-state RG system and replacing it with the CIN — Carteira de Identidade Nacional (National Identity Card). The transition runs from 2023 through 2032.
The CIN has a single national number (the CPF number becomes the primary ID number, standardized across all states). It uses a new design and security features. States are issuing CIN cards progressively, and new applicants in most states are now receiving a CIN instead of the old state-specific RG.
The photo requirements for the CIN are the same as the RG: 30×40mm (3×4cm) for states that still accept physical photos. Some states have moved to digital capture for CIN issuance — you show up, they take your photo at the counter, similar to how driver's licences work in some systems. Check your state's SSP portal for the current process.
The physical RG cards that are already in circulation remain valid until their stated expiry date (10 years for adults; varies by state). You do not need to rush to replace a valid RG with a CIN.
State Variations in the RG Photo Process
Because the RG is a state-level document, there are variations:
Validity: Most states issue RGs valid for 10 years (adults 18-60), with some states issuing lifetime validity for those over 60. Check your state's specific rules.
Photo submission: Some states (particularly those already issuing CIN) have switched to digital capture. Others still require you to bring printed 3×4 photos. Verify with your state's SSP before your appointment.
Processing time: Ranges from same-day (digital card) to 15-30 days for a physical card, depending on the state.
Photo Tips for Brazil RG Applications
The background must be white — not off-white, not light grey, not light blue (which appears in some older Brazilian photo booths). Pure white.
Lighting should be even. No shadows on the wall behind you. No harsh shadow under your chin or across your face.
Glasses are not permitted. Remove all eyewear, including clear prescription lenses, before the photo session. This rule applies to all Brazilian identity documents.
A natural smile is fine — this is one of the few Brazilian government documents where it's actively permitted. What doesn't work is a forced, wide grin that strains the eye area. Keep it relaxed.
For digital verification before printing, the passportsize-photo.online checker can confirm your 3×4 photo against background and lighting requirements. If you're applying for a Brazilian passport at the same time, note that you'll need separate photos in the correct 50×70mm format for that application — they're not interchangeable.
Expression and Appearance Rules for RG Photos
- Natural expression — a relaxed, natural smile is accepted; no forced grin
- Eyes open — both eyes fully visible, looking directly at the camera
- No glasses — all types banned, including clear prescription lenses
- Hair away from face — forehead and both eyes clearly visible
- Head coverings — not permitted unless for religious reasons
- Clean, even lighting — no shadows on face or white background
- Printed on photo-quality paper — glossy paper; matte or regular inkjet paper is rejected
Brazilian Document Photo Comparison
| Document | Size | Background | Glasses | Smile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RG (Identity Card) | 30×40mm | White | Not allowed | Allowed |
| CNH (Driving Licence) | 30×40mm | White | Not allowed | Allowed |
| CTPS (Work Card) | 30×40mm | White | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Brazilian Passport | 50×70mm | White | Not allowed | Not allowed |
The RG and CNH share the same 30×40mm format and can be interchangeable if recent. The passport requires a much larger 50×70mm photo. No Brazilian document permits glasses.
Quick Checklist for Brazil RG Photos
- Size: 30×40mm (3×4cm)
- Background: white
- Expression: natural (smile permitted)
- No glasses (any type)
- Photo printed on glossy photo paper
- SSP or Poupatempo appointment booked
