For the JEE Main 2026, NTA has implemented a new mandatory photo verification process. It is particularly for those who registered using a non-Aadhaar identification.
If you registered for JEE Main 2026 using PAN or passport, or any document other than Aadhaar, you need to complete an additional step before the deadline.
- Live photo capture is mandatory during the registration process. You can do this by using a web camera or a mobile camera.
- Some candidates may be asked to upload a photo verification certificate. Especially for candidates who didn’t use Aadhaar for registration.

Source: JEE Main official information bulletin
Also Read:
- Check the latest updates on JEE Main 2026 Exam dates
- Check the JEE Main 2026 admit card release date

Key Summary
- NTA introduced mandatory photo verification for JEE Main 2026, especially for non-Aadhaar registrants.
- Candidates who didn't use Aadhaar must submit a photo verification certificate signed by school authorities.
- Photo verification continues at the exam centre using the admit card, ID proof, and biometric checks.
- Carrying the photo verification certificate at the exam centre is mandatory for non-Aadhaar candidates.
What is the Photo Verification Process in JEE Main 2026?
The photo verification process is measure to confirm that the person who is registering for the exam is as same one appearing for the exam. NTA uses live photo capture to cross-verify the identity of the candidates.
- The photo verification process in JEE Main starts during registration, which continues till the exam centre. Your identity verification will be done before the exam.
- Candidates also upload the scanned copy of a photograph, signature in a specific format and size during registration.
- Candidates who don’t use the Aadhaar card/DigiLocker for verification need to upload the scanned copy of the identity proof.
| Photo verification Item | Who needs it? | What to keep in mind? |
|---|---|---|
| Live Photograph Capture | All applicants | Use good lighting, a light background, and ensure the face is clearly visible. |
| Scanned Photograph Upload | All applicants | Recent colour photo. Make sure it is in the specified format and size |
| Scanned Signature | All applicants | Clear signature in the allowed format and size |
| Identity Proof Upload | Candidates who are not using Aadhaar or DigiLocker for verification | Upload a valid ID proof |
| Photo Verification Certificate “if shown” | Typically, non-Aadhaar/non-DigiLocker candidates | Upload the Verification certificate |
Also Read: How many chapters in JEE Main 2026?
Ques. What document should I take for ID verification if I don’t have an Aadhaar card?
Ans. For non-Aadhaar users in JEE Main 2026, you need to submit a photo verification certificate signed by school authorities.
Photo Upload Requirements for JEE Main 2026
When filling out the JEE Main 2026, candidates must upload the specific documents, including a photo with a specific format and size.
- The photo should be recent and in colour. 80% should be face, including ears, and taken against a white background.
- The same rules apply for the live photograph as well: 80% face visibility with no mask. light coloured background, and make sure there is proper lighting.
| Item | Format | Size | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport Photo | JPG/JPEG | 10-200 Kb | Colour, 80% face, no mask, white background |
| Live Photo | JPG/JPEG | Auto-generated | 80% face, no mask, proper lighting |
| Signature | JPG/JPEG | 10-100 Kb | On white paper, black ink |
| Identity Proof | JPG/JPEG | 10-200 Kb | For those who are not using Aadhar or digiLocker |
| Class X Certificate | 50-300 Kb | Use a scanner to scan the original document | |
| Disability Certificate | 50-300 Kb | Valid, should be in proper format and clearly visible |
Also Read:
JEE Main 2026 Score vs percentile for January Session
Ques. Which photo is required for the JEE Mains, a coloured one or a black & white one?
Ans. A coloured photo is mandatory for JEE Mains. A black and white photo may get rejected.
Who May Need the “Photo Verification Certificate” in JEE Main 2026?
Candidates who didn’t use Aadhar during JEE Main 2026 registration or have mismatches need to submit a photo verification certificate. This should be signed by school authorities to confirm the candidate's photo and details.
- The certificate should be downloaded from the official website https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/ by using their application ID and password.
- You need to take a printout and get it signed by the school authorities, and upload the scanned copy.
| Aspect | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Who needs it? | Non-Aadhaar users or those with a mismatch |
| Download Method | Login with the application number on the JEE Main official website. |
| Signing Authority | School principal or gazetted officer |
| Upload deadline | January 7, 2026 |
| Format | Scanned PDF. Clear and legible |
Also Read: Last month’s revision tips for JEE Main 2026
Photo Verification at Exam Centre for JEE Main 2026
On the exam day for JEE Main 2026, photo verification happens at the exam centre. It is compulsory to carry the Photo verification certificate to the exam centre. You will not be allowed to enter the exam centre without this form.
Candidates also must carry the admit card with a recent photo pasted. It is advised to paste the same photo that was uploaded during registration.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Document Check | Admit card, ID proof, and Photo |
| Photo pasting | Paste the same uploaded photo during registration |
| Live Capture | Possible on-site photo for biometric verification |
| Biometric Use | Facial recognition to confirm identity |
Also Read: Best College Options as per the JEE Main 2026 Scores
Ques. What if I don’t have the same photograph in my JEE Mains admit card?
Ans. For JEE Main, NTA advises to paste the same photo as on the admit card. If you don’t have one, try to get it printed again or take a similar photo again.
The JEE Main 2026 photo verification is a simple but very important step for candidates who didn’t use Aadhaar for verification. It is compulsory for candidates who registered using a passport or PAN details. Stay updated on the NTA official website for further updates.







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