PennDOT's Reading center takes photos for new and renewed licenses

The PennDOT Driver License Center in Reading handles photo services for Pennsylvania driver licenses and ID cards. When you visit, staff will take your photo on-site using their camera system. You cannot bring a photo from home or use a digital photo you already have — PennDOT requires the photo to be taken at the center during your visit.

The photo is part of the standard license or ID card issuance process. Whether you are renewing, replacing, or obtaining your first license, the Reading center can photograph you and process your process in one visit. The photo becomes part of your permanent record and appears on your card.

Key Takeaways

  • PennDOT's Reading Driver License Center takes photos on-site; you cannot submit your own photo or use a digital image you provide.
  • Photo services are included as part of license and ID card transactions, not charged separately.
  • You must meet PennDOT's photo requirements: a clear, front-facing image with a neutral background and no sunglasses or hats (except for religious reasons).
  • The Reading center is located at 1100 Berkshire Boulevard, Wyomissing, PA 19610, and operates by appointment.
  • Bring valid documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Pennsylvania residency when you visit for your photo and process.

Photo requirements PennDOT enforces at the Reading center

Your photo must meet specific standards so it can be used on your license or ID card. The image must be taken straight-on, showing your full face clearly. Your eyes must be open and visible, and you cannot wear sunglasses. Hats and head coverings are not allowed unless you wear them for religious reasons — in that case, your face must still be fully visible from the front.

The background in your photo will be neutral (usually white or light gray). You cannot wear clothing that blends into the background. Avoid patterns or busy designs that distract from your face. If you wear glasses for vision correction, you may wear them in your photo, but the lenses cannot have a glare or reflection that hides your eyes.

If you do not meet these requirements when you arrive, the staff at the Reading center will ask you to adjust before taking the photo. This may mean removing a hat, taking off sunglasses, or changing your position. The goal is a clear, usable image for your card.

What documents to bring for your photo appointment

Bring your current Pennsylvania driver license or ID card if you have one. If you are renewing or replacing, this document helps staff verify your information. If you are obtaining your first license or ID, bring a valid form of identification such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID.

You will also need to prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return that shows your number. For proof of Pennsylvania residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. These documents must be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your completed process form if you have already filled it out at home. You can read the form from PennDOT's website or fill it out at the center, but having it ready speeds up the process. Bring your payment method — PennDOT accepts cash, check, and card.

How to schedule your appointment at the Reading center

PennDOT's Reading Driver License Center operates by appointment only. You cannot walk in without scheduling ahead. To book your appointment, visit the PennDOT website and use their online appointment system, or call the center directly at the phone number listed on their site.

When you schedule, you will choose the type of transaction you need: new license, renewal, replacement, or ID card. The system will show you available dates and times. Book as far in advance as possible, especially if you need your license by a specific date. Appointment availability varies by season and demand.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. If you are late or miss your appointment, you may lose your slot and have to reschedule. If your plans change, cancel your appointment through the website or by phone so the time slot opens for another person.

The Reading center's location and hours

The PennDOT Driver License Center in Reading is located at 1100 Berkshire Boulevard, Wyomissing, PA 19610. This address is in the Wyomissing area, which is part of the greater Reading region. The center serves residents across Berks County and surrounding areas.

Hours of operation are typically Monday through Friday, with limited or no Saturday service. Exact hours change seasonally and may vary for holidays. Check the PennDOT website or call ahead to confirm hours before you visit, especially if you are traveling from a distance.

What happens after your photo is taken

Once your photo is taken and your process is processed, PennDOT will mail your new license or ID card to the address you provided. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the center that you can use while you wait for your card to arrive.

Your photo is stored in PennDOT's system and linked to your license record. If you renew your license in the future, you can choose to keep the same photo or have a new one taken. You cannot request a photo retake at the Reading center after you have left — if you are unhappy with your photo, you will need to address it during your next renewal or replacement.

Real ID compliance and photo requirements

If you are obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver license or ID card, your photo must still meet the same standards described above. Real ID does not change PennDOT's photo rules. The photo will be the same whether your card is Real ID-compliant or not.

Real ID compliance affects which documents you need to bring and how PennDOT verifies your identity, but not the photo itself. The Reading center can issue both Real ID and non-Real ID cards. When you schedule your appointment, confirm which type you need so staff can tell you what documents to bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear makeup or have my hair styled a certain way for my photo?

Yes. Makeup and hairstyles are allowed. Your photo should look like you on a normal day. Avoid extreme changes that might make the photo unrecognizable later — for example, a completely different hair color or style than you usually wear. The photo needs to match your appearance when you use your license.

What if I am not happy with how my photo looks after it is taken?

You cannot retake the photo at the Reading center on the same day. If you are very unhappy, you can request a new photo during your next renewal or replacement transaction. Some people choose to renew early specifically to get a new photo, though this costs an additional fee.

Do I need to smile in my photo?

A neutral expression is standard for license photos. You do not need to smile, and many people do not. A slight, natural smile is acceptable. Avoid extreme expressions like a very wide grin or a frown. The goal is an image that looks like your normal appearance.

Can I wear religious head coverings in my photo?

Yes. Religious head coverings are permitted. Your face must still be fully visible from the front, and your eyes must be clearly visible. The covering cannot hide any part of your face. If you wear a covering that partially obscures your face, PennDOT may ask you to adjust it or may not be able to issue your card.

How long does the photo appointment take?

The photo itself takes only a few minutes. Your entire appointment, including process processing and payment, usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Arrival time and how busy the center is that day affect the total time. Arrive early and bring all documents so there are no delays.