KDP compliance requirements are the file, metadata, and content standards Amazon validates before a title goes live. Meeting them before upload reduces rejection cycles and keeps your publishing schedule on track. eBook and paperback each have distinct rules—treat them as separate outputs from the start.
Core compliance areas
- File format: DOCX or EPUB for Kindle; print-ready PDF for paperback.
- Dimensions: correct trim size, margins, gutter, and bleed for print.
- Image quality: 300 DPI at final print size for interior images.
- Metadata: accurate title, author, description, categories, and keywords.
- Content policy: no prohibited content, misleading metadata, or duplicate listings.
- AI disclosure: tell KDP if text, images, or translations were AI-generated. AI-assisted edits do not require disclosure.
- Low-content checkbox: select it only for notebooks, planners, journals, and similar fill-in books. Coloring and puzzle books are generally not low-content; the wrong box is a rejection.
Pre-upload compliance checklist
- Confirm trim size: verify interior PDF dimensions match a supported KDP trim size.
- Check margins and gutter: increase gutter for higher page counts so text stays readable near the spine.
- Validate images: replace low-resolution assets before export.
- Test TOC links: preview navigation in Kindle Previewer or KDP preview tools.
- Review metadata: ensure title, subtitle, and description match the book content.
- Disclose AI-generated content: check the AI box when the text, images, or translations were created by an AI tool, including converter output.
- Confirm the low-content category: match the checkbox to Amazon's definition, not to marketing shorthand.
- Run a final preview: inspect every page in KDP's online previewer before submitting.
eBook vs paperback requirements
| Area | Kindle eBook | Paperback |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Reflowable (adapts to screen) | Fixed page geometry |
| File type | DOCX or EPUB | Print-ready PDF |
| Trim size | Not applicable | Must match selected KDP size |
| Bleed | Not applicable | Required when art extends to edge |
| Cover | JPG meeting minimum dimensions | Full wrap PDF with spine |
FAQ
Can I fix compliance issues after publishing?
Yes, but fixing live titles pauses sales during re-review. Pre-upload validation is faster and avoids customer-facing errors.
Does KDP check content quality?
KDP validates technical file specs and content policy. Reader experience quality—layout, readability, and design—is your responsibility.
Bottom line
Build compliance checks into your workflow before export, not after upload. A repeatable checklist cuts rejection cycles and keeps publishing predictable.