Your photo can be taken at the DMV, at an approved photo vendor, or sometimes at a third-party location like a pharmacy — but the rules depend on your state and whether you're renewing or explore for the first time.

Most states let you take your photo at the DMV office itself when you show up for your appointment or walk-in visit. Some states also allow you to use an approved photo vendor — a separate business that has a contract with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to take compliant photos. A few states let you submit a photo taken elsewhere, though this is less common and usually only for renewals. The fastest route is often the photo vendor, because you can get the photo taken and submitted without waiting for a DMV appointment.

The photo must meet specific requirements: a plain background (usually white or light gray), your face clearly visible and centered, no sunglasses or hats, and a neutral expression. Your state's DMV website lists the exact rules for your state, including whether glasses are allowed and how recent the photo must be.

Key Takeaways

  • The DMV office will take your photo when you explore for or renew your license, and this is included in your appointment or walk-in visit.
  • Many states have approved photo vendors — separate businesses licensed to take DMV-compliant photos — that you can visit before or instead of the DMV.
  • Some states allow you to submit a photo taken by a photographer or at home, but only for renewals and only if it meets strict requirements.
  • Your state's DMV website lists which photo vendors are approved in your area and what the photo requirements are for your state.
  • Photo vendors are often faster than scheduling a DMV appointment, but you will still need to complete your process at the DMV office.

Getting your photo taken at the DMV office

When you arrive at the DMV for your appointment or walk-in visit, a staff member will take your photo as part of the process. You do not need to bring a photo with you — the DMV will take it on the spot. This is the most straightforward route and requires no extra steps.

The photo is taken in a designated area of the DMV office, usually with a plain background and standard lighting. The staff member will tell you how to position yourself and will retake the photo if it does not meet the state's requirements. Once the photo is taken and approved, it is attached to your license when ready or printed on it when your license is mailed to you.

The downside is that you have to wait for a DMV appointment in many states, and appointments can be weeks out. If you want to speed up the process, you can use an approved photo vendor instead.

Using an approved photo vendor

An approved photo vendor is a business — often a photography studio, pharmacy, or retail store — that your state's DMV has licensed to take driver's license photos. The vendor takes the photo, ensures it meets your state's requirements, and then submits it directly to the DMV or gives you a copy to bring to your DMV appointment.

To find approved vendors in your area, go to your state's DMV website and search for "photo vendors" or "approved photographers." The site will list the vendors by location, their hours, and sometimes their phone numbers. You can call ahead to confirm they are open and to ask about wait times.

When you visit the vendor, bring a form of ID and be ready to pay a small fee — usually between $10 and $25, depending on the vendor and your state. The vendor will take your photo, show it to you, and let you know if it meets the requirements. If it does, they will either submit it to the DMV on your behalf or give you a printed copy to bring to your DMV appointment. Ask the vendor which option they use before you pay.

Using a photo vendor is often faster than waiting for a DMV appointment, but you will still need to complete your process at the DMV office or online, depending on your state.

Submitting a photo taken elsewhere

Some states allow you to submit a photo that was taken by a professional photographer or even at home, but the rules are strict and vary by state. This option is usually only available for renewals, not for first-time applications. Check your state's DMV website to see if this is an option for you.

If your state does allow it, the photo must meet the same requirements as a DMV photo: plain background, face centered and clearly visible, no sunglasses or hats, and a neutral expression. The photo is usually required to be a specific size (often 2x2 inches) and in color. Some states require the photo to be printed on photo paper, not regular paper.

You will typically submit the photo by mail or in person at the DMV office along with your renewal process. If the photo does not meet the requirements, the DMV will reject it and ask you to submit a new one or come in for a photo at the office.

What to know before you go

Wear clothing that contrasts with the background — the DMV will use a plain background, so dark or bright colors work better than pastels. Avoid busy patterns, logos, or anything that might distract from your face. Your hair should be styled normally, and your face should be clean and well-lit.

Do not wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a hat unless your state makes an exception for religious or medical reasons. If you wear regular glasses, check your state's rules — some states allow them, others do not. If you are unsure, ask the photo vendor or DMV staff before the photo is taken.

Bring a valid form of ID to the photo vendor or DMV office. If you are explore for your first license, you may need to bring additional documents like a birth certificate or proof of residency. Check your state's DMV website for the full list of documents required for your situation.

How long the photo process takes

At a photo vendor, the photo is usually taken and approved within 10 to 15 minutes. At the DMV office, the photo is taken as part of your overall appointment, which can take 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is and what else you need to do.

Once the photo is taken, it is processed when ready. If you are renewing your license by mail, the photo is printed on your new license and mailed to you within one to two weeks. If you are explore in person, your license is usually mailed to you within the same timeframe, though some states offer a temporary license to use right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo I took myself at home?

Most states do not allow this for new applications, only for renewals. If your state does allow it, the photo must meet strict requirements: plain background, proper lighting, correct size, and no filters or editing. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available to you.

What if I do not like how my photo looks?

At the DMV or photo vendor, you can usually ask for a retake if the photo does not meet the requirements or if you blink or make an odd expression. However, you cannot refuse a photo just because you do not like how you look. If you are unhappy after your license arrives, some states allow you to request a new photo for a fee, but this varies by state.

Do I need an appointment to get my photo taken at the DMV?

This depends on your state. Some DMVs take walk-ins for photos, while others require an appointment. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out. Using a photo vendor is often faster if you want to avoid waiting for an appointment.

Can someone else take my photo for me?

No. You must be present when your photo is taken, whether at the DMV, a photo vendor, or at home. The photo must show your current appearance and must be taken specifically for your driver's license.

What if I wear glasses or contacts?

Rules vary by state. Some states allow regular glasses in your photo, while others do not. Contact lenses are always allowed. Check your state's DMV website or ask the photo vendor before your photo is taken to make sure you follow the rules for your state.