How to Make a Proper Copy of Both Sides of Your Driver's License

What you need to do before copying your license

Before you copy either side of your driver's license, understand why you are copying it and what the receiving organization will accept. Most government agencies, employers, and financial institutions have specific rules about license copies — some require certified copies from the DMV, some accept photocopies, and some will not accept copies at all and demand the original document in person.

Check with the organization requesting the copy first. Ask whether they need a photocopy, a certified copy from your state DMV, a scanned image, or the physical license itself. This step saves you from making copies that will be rejected. If they say "a copy of your driver's license," follow up by asking whether a standard photocopy is acceptable or whether it must come from the DMV.

Key Takeaways

Always confirm with the requesting organization whether they accept photocopies or require a certified copy from your DMV before you copy anything.
Copy both the front and back on the same sheet of paper or on two separate sheets, depending on what the organization asks for.
Use a standard color or black-and-white photocopier; do not use your phone camera or a scanner unless the organization specifically allows digital images.
Some states prohibit copying your own license for certain purposes, so verify your state's rules before you proceed.
If the organization requires a certified copy, contact your state DMV directly rather than making your own copy.

How to photocopy both sides on a standard copier

Place your driver's license face-down on the glass of a photocopier with the front side facing the glass. Close the lid gently and make one copy. Then flip the license over and copy the back side the same way. You now have two separate sheets, each showing one side of your license.

If you want both sides on a single sheet, place the front of your license on the glass, copy it, and note where it landed on the paper. Then place the back of the license on the glass in a position that will print on the same sheet without overlapping the first image. This requires some trial and error, and many copiers have a "reduce" or "fit to page" setting that can help you fit both sides legibly on one sheet.

Use a color copier if the organization did not specify black-and-white. Color copies preserve security features and holograms on modern licenses more clearly, though most organizations accept either. Check the copy quality before you leave the copier — the text, photo, and numbers should all be legible.

Using a scanner and printer instead of a copier

If you do not have access to a photocopier, you can scan both sides of your license and print them. Place the front of your license face-down on the scanner glass, scan it at 300 dpi or higher, and save the image. Repeat for the back side. Then open both images in a document or image editor and arrange them on a single page or print them separately, depending on what was requested.

Print the scanned images on standard white paper using a color printer if available. The printed copy should be clear enough to read all text and see the photo. If the organization specified that they need a "photocopy," a scanned and printed version usually meets that requirement, but confirm first — some organizations distinguish between a photocopy and a printed scan.

When you cannot copy your license yourself

Some organizations require a certified copy of your driver's license, which means a copy made and stamped by your state DMV. You cannot make this yourself. Contact your state's DMV office and ask how to request a certified copy. Most states allow you to request this by mail, in person, or online through their DMV website.

Certified copies typically cost between $5 and $15 per copy, depending on your state, and take one to three weeks to arrive by mail. If you need the copy urgently, visit a DMV office in person — some states can provide a certified copy the same day. Bring your original license and a form of payment.

Banks, mortgage lenders, and government agencies sometimes require certified copies for identity verification. If you are unsure whether a certified copy is required, ask the organization directly. It is faster to ask than to make a regular copy and have it rejected.

State-specific rules about copying your license

A few states have restrictions on photocopying your driver's license for certain purposes. Some states prohibit copying your license if you intend to use the copy as a fake ID or to misrepresent your identity. This is a criminal offense in those states, even if you are copying your own license.

The restriction applies only to fraudulent use. Copying your license to provide proof of identity to an employer, bank, or government agency is legal everywhere. If you are uncertain about your state's specific rules, contact your state DMV before copying your license, or ask the organization requesting the copy whether they have any concerns about how you obtained it.

What to do if your copy is rejected

If an organization rejects your photocopy and asks for a certified copy instead, contact your state DMV and request one. Provide the DMV with your license number, date of birth, and the name and address of the organization that needs the copy. Some DMVs can mail the certified copy directly to the requesting organization rather than to you.

If the organization rejected your copy because it was unclear or illegible, make a new copy using a better quality copier or scanner. may support the entire front and back are visible, all text is readable, and the photo is clear. Some organizations also accept digital images of your license sent by email — ask whether this option is available before you make another physical copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone camera to take a picture of my license instead of photocopying it?

Only if the organization specifically says they accept digital images or photos. Most government agencies and banks require a photocopy or certified copy, not a phone photo. If you are unsure, ask the organization first. A phone photo is faster and easier, but it will likely be rejected if a formal copy is required.

Do I need to copy both sides, or just the front?

Ask the organization what they need. Most want both sides because the back contains important information like restrictions, endorsements, and your address. If they did not specify, provide both sides to be safe. It takes only a few extra seconds and prevents the organization from asking you to submit again.

Is a color copy better than a black-and-white copy?

Color is usually better because it preserves security features and holograms that appear on modern licenses. However, most organizations accept either. If the copier offers both options and you have time, choose color. If only black-and-white is available, that is usually acceptable — just confirm with the organization if you are concerned.

What if I lost my license and need a copy for proof of identity?

You cannot copy a license you do not have. Contact your state DMV to request a replacement license or a certified document stating that your license was lost. The DMV can issue a replacement quickly, and some states offer expedited service if you need it within a few days.

How long does a certified copy from the DMV take?

By mail, certified copies usually arrive in one to three weeks, depending on your state. In person at a DMV office, many states can provide one the same day or within a few business days. Call your state DMV or check their website for the exact timeline and any fees involved.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.