Most states want one new photo, but some want two or none at all
When you renew your driver's license, most states require you to provide one new photograph. A few states ask for two photos. Some states don't require a photo at all during renewal — they use your existing photo from your last license or pull one from their own database. The exact number depends on which state you live in and whether you're renewing in person or by mail.
The photo requirement also changes based on how long it's been since your last license was issued. If your license is expiring after 8 to 10 years, your state is more likely to require a fresh photo because facial changes become noticeable over that span. Shorter renewal cycles sometimes allow you to keep your old photo.
Key Takeaways
- One new photo is the standard requirement for driver's license renewal in most states, though a handful require two.
- Some states do not require any new photo during renewal if you're renewing by mail or if your license hasn't expired long enough.
- Photo specifications — background color, glasses, head position — vary by state, so check your state's DMV website before you take or bring photos.
- Digital photos taken at the DMV office during in-person renewal are usually included in the renewal fee, but photos you bring yourself may cost extra or be rejected if they don't meet requirements.
- If you're renewing online or by mail, your state will tell you upfront whether you need to submit a photo or whether you can renew without one.
States that require one photo during renewal
The majority of states — roughly 40 — require one new photograph when you renew your driver's license. This photo becomes your new license image and is used in the state's database. If you renew in person at your DMV office, the examiner will take the photo for you as part of the renewal process, and the cost is built into your renewal fee.
If you're renewing by mail or online, your state will specify whether you can submit a photo by mail, upload a digital photo, or whether you must come in person to have one taken. Some states that allow mail renewal will accept a photo you provide; others will not process your renewal without an in-person visit.
States that require two photos or have variable rules
A small number of states ask for two photographs during renewal. These are less common, and the second photo is typically used for internal verification purposes rather than appearing on your license. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to confirm whether your state is one of them.
Some states have different photo rules depending on your age, the type of license you hold, or how you're renewing. For example, a state might require a photo if you're renewing in person but not if you're renewing by mail. Others require a photo only if your previous license photo is more than a certain number of years old. Your state's renewal notice will spell out which rule applies to you.
States that don't require a new photo
A handful of states do not require a new photo during standard renewal. These states typically use your existing photo from your previous license or have photographed you during an earlier transaction. If your state is one of these, you can often renew by mail or online without submitting any photo at all.
Even in states that don't require a new photo, you have the option to request a new one if you want to update your appearance. You may be charged a small fee for this service, or it may be included in your renewal fee depending on your state's policy.
Photo requirements and specifications
If your state requires a photo, it will have specific rules about how that photo must look. Common requirements include a plain white or light background, a neutral facial expression, both eyes open and visible, no sunglasses or tinted glasses (though prescription glasses are usually allowed), and your head centered in the frame. Some states do not allow hats or head coverings unless worn for religious reasons.
If you're bringing a photo you took yourself, it must meet these specifications or the DMV will reject it and ask you to take another one. If you're having your photo taken at the DMV office, the examiner will position you correctly and retake it if needed. Digital photos taken at the office are almost always accepted on the first try because the examiner knows the state's exact requirements.
A few states have moved to digital photo submission for online or mail renewal. If your state offers this, you'll upload a photo file through the renewal portal. The system will usually tell you if your photo doesn't meet the requirements before you submit your process, so you can retake it and try again.
What to do if you're renewing by mail or online
When you renew by mail or online, your renewal notice or the online portal will tell you whether you need to include a photo. If a photo is required, the notice will explain how to submit it — whether you mail a physical print, upload a digital file, or schedule an in-person appointment to have one taken.
If you're mailing a photo, print it on standard photo paper and follow any size requirements your state lists (usually 2 by 2 inches). Write your name and driver's license number on the back in pencil. Include it with your renewal process and any other required documents. If you're uploading a digital photo, make sure your file is in a format your state accepts (usually JPG or PNG) and that the file size is within the limit.
If your state requires a photo but you can't submit one by mail or online, you'll need to renew in person at a DMV office. Some states allow you to start the renewal process online and then complete it in person, which can save you time in the office.
In-person renewal and photo costs
If you renew in person, the DMV will take your photo as part of the renewal appointment. You don't need to bring a photo with you. The cost of the photo is included in your renewal fee — there's no separate charge. The examiner will take the photo in a controlled environment with proper lighting and background, which is why in-person photos are almost always accepted without revision.
Some DMV offices allow you to request a retake if you're unhappy with how the photo turned out, though policies vary. If you want to update your photo at a time other than renewal, some states charge a separate photo fee (usually $5 to $15) to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photo from my phone or a selfie for my driver's license renewal?
Only if your state specifically allows digital photo submission and your phone photo meets the state's requirements — plain background, proper lighting, both eyes visible, no filters. Most states that accept digital photos have an upload tool that will reject your photo if it doesn't meet specs, so you'll know when ready if it won't work. If you're unsure, call your DMV before taking the photo.
What if I don't have a new photo and my state requires one?
You'll need to renew in person at a DMV office so they can take a photo for you. Some states allow you to start the renewal process online and then finish it in person, which can make the office visit shorter. You cannot complete renewal by mail or online if a photo is required and you don't have one.
Do I need a new photo if I'm just replacing a lost or stolen license?
Replacement rules are different from renewal rules. Most states do not require a new photo for a replacement license — they use your existing photo. However, some states do take a new photo during replacement. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm what's required for a replacement in your state.
Can I wear glasses or a hat in my driver's license photo?
Prescription glasses are allowed in most states, but sunglasses and tinted glasses are not. Hats are generally not allowed unless you wear them for religious reasons — in that case, your face must still be fully visible and centered. The DMV examiner will let you know if your glasses or hat don't meet the requirements before the photo is taken.
How old can a photo be if I'm submitting one myself?
Most states that accept photos you provide require them to be recent — usually taken within the last 6 months. This ensures the photo looks like you and matches your current appearance. If your photo is older than that, your state may reject it and ask you to take a new one.