Official SSC Photo & Signature Upload Rules 2026 (CGL, CHSL, MTS & GD)
An authoritative guide on the latest Staff Selection Commission upload norms, detailing live webcam capture protocols, 20KB–50KB file specifications, and how to avoid portal rejection.
The SSC Live Webcam Capture Protocol (2026 Update)
Under the updated SSC application workflow launched on the new ssc.gov.in portal, candidates must capture a live photo through a webcam or mobile camera in addition to uploading their formal signature.
The Commission introduced live capture to curb candidate impersonation. However, tens of thousands of forms face rejection due to inadequate lighting, improper posture, or webcam resolution below the required threshold.
- Position yourself facing a direct light source or natural window illumination. Never sit with a bright window behind you (backlighting).
- Do not wear spectacles, optical glasses with anti-glare coatings, caps, beanies, or scarves that obscure your forehead or ears.
Official SSC Specifications Matrix
Candidate Photograph: 20 KB to 50 KB, 3.5 cm width by 4.5 cm height (350 × 450 pixels), JPG/JPEG format only.
Candidate Signature: 10 KB to 20 KB, 4.0 cm width by 2.0 cm height (140 × 60 pixels), black or blue ink, running handwriting.
Background Norm: Plain white or very light grey. Colored, textured, or patterned backgrounds trigger algorithmic flags.
Top Causes of SSC Application Form Rejections
Rejection Reason 1: Photo blurred or facial details not recognizable on printed admit cards.
Rejection Reason 2: Spectacles worn during photo capture (even clear prescription glasses are strictly prohibited by SSC notices).
Rejection Reason 3: Candidate signature uploaded in all capital block letters.
SSC Photo & Signature Specifications Summary (CGL, CHSL, MTS, CPO, GD)
| Attribute | Photograph Standard | Signature Standard |
|---|---|---|
| File Size Range | 20 KB to 50 KB strictly | 10 KB to 20 KB strictly |
| Pixel Dimensions | 350 × 450 pixels | 140 × 60 pixels |
| Physical Dimensions | 3.5 cm (W) × 4.5 cm (H) | 4.0 cm (W) × 2.0 cm (H) |
| Allowed Format | JPG / JPEG only | JPG / JPEG only |
| Background Rule | Plain white or light grey | Clean white unlined paper |
| Headwear / Glasses | Strictly prohibited | N/A (Running handwriting only) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear prescription glasses in my SSC application photo?
No. The official SSC notification explicitly states that photographs with spectacles or eye glasses will be rejected immediately, even if they are clear prescription glasses.
Does SSC accept photos with candidate name and date printed at the bottom?
Under the new ssc.gov.in portal guidelines, photos with or without name and date are accepted as long as they are recent (clicked within 3 months) and clear.
What should I do if the SSC live camera says "Face Not Detected"?
Ensure even front lighting on your face, sit approximately 1.5 to 2 feet away from the camera, ensure both ears are visible, and remove all headwear and glasses.