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UNITED STATES / LICENSE

Illinois FOID card photo requirements

Prepare an electronic head-and-shoulders photograph for the application. Do not confuse it with a physical passport print.

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Square framing
Document photo framing example

Photo framing example

SPECIFICATIONS

Photo requirements

Read the official source
OutputElectronic head-and-shoulders photo
RecencyTaken within the last 30 days
ImageColour; face unobstructed
EditingNo digital alterations
Fixed dimensionsNo fixed size in the cited FAQ
Merodim framingSquare preview; not an ISP size rule

The upload is a photo of you, not your ID

ISP asks for a recent electronic portrait. Its FAQ distinguishes this from sending a photograph of a driver’s licence or identification card. Begin with a new camera image of the applicant.

Separate a preparation choice from an official requirement

The FAQ does not prescribe a fixed photo size. Merodim’s square framing is a preparation option, not a claim that ISP mandates a square or a 2-inch print. Follow any additional instructions shown in the live portal.

Keep the original and check the capture date

Merodim tip: use your camera gallery’s date information to confirm when the image was taken. Copying an old image to a new folder changes its location, not the date of the portrait.

BEFORE YOU SUBMIT

Problems and practical fixes.

Use the issue you can see to choose your next step.

A driver’s-licence scan is uploaded
Take a separate portrait rather than cropping the small photo printed on an ID.
A filtered profile photo is selected
Use a fresh capture with camera enhancements disabled.
A paper print is ordered for the upload field
Choose the electronic output. An image of a print introduces another capture step and potential glare.
OFFICIAL SOURCES

Check the instructions for your application.

Reviewed October 3, 2026. Requirements above are attributed to the issuing authority; Merodim tips are practical preparation advice.

Illinois State Police · FOID application checklist ↗Illinois Firearm Applicant Portal · Photo FAQs ↗

Frequently asked questions

Must I buy a passport-size print?

The cited application checklist asks for an electronic photo. A print order is not required simply to supply that upload.

Is a white background an explicit rule here?

The cited FAQ does not set a background colour. Merodim recommends a simple, light background for a clear portrait; that recommendation is separate from ISP’s requirements.

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