SSC CGL Photo Size & Signature Rules 2026: Official Upload Guidelines
Learn the latest Staff Selection Commission (SSC) guidelines for live photograph capture and signature requirements (10-20 KB) for SSC CGL online applications.
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has updated its application portal guidelines, introducing dynamic new rules that catch many candidates off guard. Most notably, pre-shot passport photographs are no longer accepted for new registrations; candidates must perform a live capture. Here is a detailed breakdown of the latest SSC CGL photo size and signature guidelines to guarantee your form is approved.
SSC CGL Registration Specs at a Glance
| Parameter | SSC Live Photo Guideline | SSC Signature Guideline |
|---|---|---|
| Capture Method | Live camera capture (via app or webcam) | Scan or high-res photo upload |
| File Size (KB) | Automatically processed (live capture) | 10 KB to 20 KB only |
| Dimensions | N/A (Standard webcam framing) | 4.0 cm width x 2.0 cm height (140x60 px) |
| Ink Color | N/A | Black ink only |
| Paper Type | Plain white background (wall behind you) | Unruled white paper |
Official Rules for the SSC Live Photograph Capture
To avoid immediate rejection during the live photo scan, ensure you meet these environment rules:
- Background: Sit or stand against a plain, solid white or light-colored background. Do not capture photos in front of curtains, doors, or cluttered rooms.
- Lighting: Ensure the light source is in front of you (shining on your face). Side lighting creates shadows that result in rejection.
- Appearance: Your face must look directly into the camera. Do not wear caps, beanies, spectacles, or goggles during capture (even if worn regularly).
- Expression: Keep a completely neutral face. Do not smile, wink, or open your mouth. Both ears must be clearly visible.
SSC CGL Signature Upload Specifications
The signature file is uploaded separately and has very strict size boundaries:
- Sign your name clearly on a piece of white, unruled paper.
- Use a **black ink pen** (blue ink or gel pens are a common cause of rejection).
- Crop the signature so it measures approximately 4.0 cm in width by 2.0 cm in height.
- Ensure the file size is between 10 KB and 20 KB in JPG/JPEG format.
- Use our SSC CGL Signature Resizer Tool to automatically adjust these dimensions and reduce the KB size in seconds.
SSC CGL Photo & Signature: FAQs
Q1. Can I upload an old passport photo for SSC CGL?
No, the new SSC portal does not allow uploading pre-saved passport photos. You must use the portal's live capture tool (webcam or mobile QR code via the SSC app) to take a real-time photo.
Q2. What is the signature size limit for SSC CGL?
The signature must be between 10 KB and 20 KB in file size, with physical dimensions of 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm (or approximately 140 x 60 pixels) in JPG/JPEG format.
Q3. Can I wear regular glasses while capturing the live photo on the SSC portal?
No. The official SSC guidelines state that the photograph must be captured without a cap, spectacles, or dark glasses. Remove your reading glasses for the photo capture.
Q4. What color ink should I use for the SSC signature?
You must sign using black ink. Blue ink signatures are frequently flagged as unclear and rejected by the automated document checking system.