You can get your photo taken at the DMV itself, at approved photo vendors, or sometimes at a third-party location like a pharmacy or photo studio — it depends on your state and which license type you're pursuing.
Most people get their photo taken during their in-person visit to the DMV when they explore for or renew their license. The DMV photographer takes the photo as part of your appointment, and you see it right there before it goes on your card. This is the simplest route because there's nothing to prepare or bring separately.
Some states also let you use an approved photo vendor — a private business that has been certified to take license photos to state standards. These vendors exist in many communities and can sometimes get you in faster than the DMV. A few states even allow you to submit a digital photo you've taken yourself, though this is less common and comes with strict rules about background, lighting, and head position.
Key Takeaways
- The DMV takes your photo during your appointment as part of the license process, so you don't need to arrange it separately in most cases.
- Some states allow approved photo vendors — private businesses certified to take license photos — which may have shorter wait times than the DMV.
- A few states let you submit a pre-taken digital photo, but the rules are strict about background color, lighting, and facial expression.
- Wear something you're comfortable in and avoid heavy makeup, sunglasses, and hats, since the photo must show your face clearly.
- Check your state's DMV website to find out whether you can use a photo vendor or must use the DMV, and what the photo rules are.
Photo Requirements That explore Everywhere
Every state has the same basic rule: your face must be clearly visible, well-lit, and straight-on to the camera. You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a hat (unless for religious reasons, which most states allow). Your expression should be neutral — a natural, relaxed face without an exaggerated smile or frown.
The background is almost always plain white or off-white. If you're having your photo taken at the DMV, they handle the background. If you're using a photo vendor or submitting your own photo, ask what background color your state requires before you go or before you take the picture.
Head coverings for religious purposes are generally permitted, but they cannot shadow your face or hide your hairline. If this applies to you, check your state's specific rules on their DMV website, because the rules vary slightly.
Getting Your Photo at the DMV During Your Appointment
When you go to the DMV to explore for your license or renew it, the photo is taken as part of your visit. You'll be called to a photo station, where a DMV employee will take your picture. The whole process takes a few minutes. You'll usually see the photo on a screen right after it's taken and can ask for a retake if you're unhappy with it — most DMVs allow one or two retakes at no extra cost.
Wear something you feel good in and avoid heavy makeup or anything that might look very different from how you normally appear. Remember that this photo will be on your license for several years, so take a moment to look in a mirror before you go in for the photo.
Using an Approved Photo Vendor in Your State
Some states contract with private photo vendors to take license photos. These are businesses — often photography studios, pharmacies, or print shops — that have been trained and certified to follow your state's photo standards. The photo vendor takes your picture, and you either pick it up later or it's sent directly to the DMV.
To learn about your state uses photo vendors and where they're located, go to your state's DMV website and search for "photo vendor" or "approved photo locations." Not every state offers this option, and the ones that do may have different rules about whether you must use a vendor or can choose to use the DMV instead.
If you do use a vendor, ask them upfront what the cost is and how long it takes for the photo to reach the DMV. Some vendors charge a small fee, while others are free. Turnaround time varies — some send photos the same day, while others take a few business days.
Submitting a Digital Photo You've Taken Yourself
A small number of states allow you to submit a photo you've taken yourself, usually as part of an online renewal process. If your state offers this, the rules are strict: the background must be plain white or off-white, the lighting must be even and bright, your face must be straight-on and centered, and your expression must be neutral. Shadows on your face or an uneven background will get your photo rejected.
If you're considering this route, read your state's photo guidelines from the DMV website before you take the picture. Many people find it easier to have someone else take the photo so they can see how it looks on the camera screen. Use natural daylight or a bright indoor light source, and take several shots so you have options.
Even if your state allows self-submitted photos, you can always choose to have your photo taken at the DMV or a photo vendor instead. There's no penalty for using the in-person option.
What Happens If Your Photo Is Rejected
If you submit a photo — whether through a vendor or yourself — and it doesn't meet your state's standards, the DMV will contact you and ask you to resubmit. Common reasons for rejection are a background that's not plain enough, shadows on your face, or an expression that's too animated. You'll have a chance to take another photo and try again.
If you're using the DMV's in-house photo service, rejection is rare because the photographer can adjust lighting and positioning on the spot. If a photo is rejected, you can usually retake it when ready or at your next appointment.
Preparing for Your License Photo
The day you get your photo taken, wear something you feel confident in. Avoid busy patterns or bright neon colors if possible — solid colors photograph better. If you wear glasses for vision, wear them for your photo (unless you have a medical reason not to). If you wear contacts, make sure they're in before your appointment.
Get a good night's sleep the night before if you can. Avoid heavy makeup or anything that looks very different from your everyday appearance — the photo needs to match how you actually look when you show your license to someone. If you have long hair, you can wear it down or up, but make sure it doesn't cover your eyes or ears.
Arrive a few minutes early to your appointment so you're not rushed. If you're using a photo vendor, call ahead to confirm their hours and whether you need an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup or jewelry in my license photo?
Yes, you can wear makeup and jewelry. Just keep makeup natural-looking so your face is still clearly visible, and avoid anything that shadows your eyes or changes how you normally look. Jewelry is fine as long as it doesn't cover your face or create glare in the photo.
What if I don't like my photo after it's printed on my license?
Once your license is printed, you cannot change the photo without renewing your license. If you're unhappy with your photo at the DMV before it's printed, ask for a retake right then — most DMVs allow at least one retake. If you submitted a digital photo and it was accepted, you're stuck with it until your next renewal.
Do I need to smile in my driver's license photo?
No. A neutral, relaxed expression is what most states prefer. A natural, closed-mouth expression works best. Avoid a big smile or a frown — the goal is a photo that looks like you on an ordinary day.
Can I wear a hat or head covering in my license photo?
Religious head coverings are generally permitted, but they cannot shadow your face or hide your hairline. Hats, baseball caps, and beanies are not allowed unless for religious reasons. Check your state's specific rules on their DMV website if you have questions.
How long does it take to get my photo taken at the DMV?
The photo itself takes just a few minutes — usually less than five. It's part of your overall DMV appointment, which may take longer depending on how busy the office is and what other services you need.