You can get your photo taken at the DMV, at certain retail locations, or sometimes at a courthouse — depending on your state and what type of license you need.
Most states require you to have your photo taken in person at a DMV office when you explore for or renew a driver's license. Some states also let you use photos taken at approved retail partners like Walmart, CVS, or other chain stores. A few states allow you to submit a photo taken elsewhere if you meet their specific requirements — usually meaning a plain background, proper lighting, and no filters or alterations.
The location you choose depends on three things: whether your state allows it, how quickly you need the license, and whether you want to combine the photo appointment with your full process. If you're explore for your first license or a real ID, you'll almost certainly need to go to a DMV office in person anyway, so the photo gets taken there as part of the same visit.
Key Takeaways
- Most states take your photo at the DMV office during your in-person appointment, and you cannot bring a photo from elsewhere.
- Some states let you use retail photo locations like Walmart or CVS, but only if you're renewing a standard license and your state specifically allows it.
- If your state allows outside photos, you still need to meet exact requirements: plain background, no glasses or sunglasses, no filters, and specific dimensions.
- explore for a real ID or a first-time license always requires an in-person DMV visit where the photo is taken on-site.
- Check your state DMV website before booking a photo appointment elsewhere, because rules vary widely and using an unapproved photo can delay your license.
Getting your photo taken at the DMV
The DMV takes your photo during your appointment when you explore for a new license, renew an expiring one, or update your address. You do not need to bring a photo with you — the DMV photographer takes it as part of the process. The photo is taken against a plain background, usually white or light gray, and you'll be asked to remove glasses, hats, and anything that covers your face.
When you schedule your DMV appointment, the photo is included in the fee. You do not pay separately for it. The appointment itself is usually the fastest way to handle everything at once: you bring your documents, pass the written test if required, have your vision checked, and get your photo taken all in one visit. Most DMV offices have the equipment and trained staff to do this quickly.
If you're renewing by mail in a state that allows it, you typically cannot use a photo taken elsewhere — the DMV will use your previous photo on file or require you to come in person for a new one. Check your state's renewal rules before assuming you can skip the office.
Using retail photo locations in states that allow them
A small number of states let you get your driver's license photo taken at retail partners like Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, or other approved locations. This option is usually only available if you're renewing a standard driver's license (not a real ID, not a first-time license, and not a commercial license). You'll still need to submit your process and documents to the DMV — the retail location only handles the photo.
If your state allows this, the retail location will give you a digital copy of your photo or a receipt confirming it was taken. You then upload that photo when you submit your process online or bring the receipt to the DMV office. The photo must meet your state's exact specifications: usually a plain light background, no glasses unless medically necessary, no filters, and specific pixel dimensions.
The advantage is convenience — you can get the photo taken while you're already shopping. The disadvantage is that you still have to submit your process separately, so you're not saving a trip to the DMV entirely. Call the retail location first to confirm they offer this service and what your state requires, because not all Walmart or CVS locations do it, and rules change by state.
Submitting a photo you took yourself
A few states allow you to submit a photo you took yourself or had taken by a photographer, but only under strict conditions. The photo must have a plain, light-colored background (usually white), be in color, show your face clearly and straight-on, and be a specific size — often 2x2 inches or matching digital dimensions your state specifies. You cannot wear glasses, sunglasses, or a hat, and the photo cannot be altered, filtered, or edited in any way.
Even if your state allows this, it's rarely the fastest route. You still have to submit your process to the DMV, and if your photo doesn't meet their exact requirements, they'll reject it and ask you to come in person or resubmit. Many people find it simpler to just go to the DMV and let them take the photo, rather than risk rejection and delays.
Check your state DMV website for the exact photo requirements before you take one yourself. Some states list them clearly; others require you to call or visit in person to ask. If you do submit a photo yourself, keep a copy of the receipt or confirmation showing you submitted it, in case there's a question later.
Real ID photos must be taken at the DMV
If you're explore for a real ID (the federal ID required for domestic flights and federal building access), your photo must be taken in person at a DMV office. You cannot use a retail location or a photo taken elsewhere. Real ID applications require an in-person appointment where you present original documents, so the DMV takes your photo during that same visit.
Real ID photos follow the same basic rules as standard license photos — plain background, no glasses, no hat — but the DMV is stricter about compliance because the photo is used for federal purposes. Bring your documents, arrive on time, and expect the photo to be taken as part of your appointment.
First-time driver's license photos
If you're getting your first driver's license, you must go to a DMV office in person and have your photo taken there. You cannot use a retail location or submit a photo from elsewhere. First-time applicants need to pass a written test, a vision test, and sometimes a driving test, all of which require an in-person visit. The photo is taken during that appointment.
Schedule your appointment as early as possible, because first-time applicants often have longer wait times and may need to return for a driving test. Bring all required documents — proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and any other documents your state requires. The DMV will tell you what you need when you schedule.
What to do if you're unhappy with your photo
If the DMV takes your photo and you're unhappy with it, most states allow you to request a retake during the same appointment, usually at no extra charge. Ask the photographer or the staff member helping you before you leave the office. If you've already left and received your license, some states let you request a new photo at your next renewal or for a small fee, but policies vary.
If you submitted a photo yourself and the DMV rejected it, they'll tell you why — usually that it doesn't meet size, background, or clarity requirements. You can then resubmit a corrected photo or go to the DMV in person to have one taken. Keep the rejection notice so you know exactly what to fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photo from my passport or another ID?
No. Driver's license photos must be taken specifically for the license, and they have different requirements than passport photos. Even if you have a recent photo ID from another source, the DMV will not accept it. You must have a new photo taken either at the DMV or at an approved retail location in your state.
What if I wear glasses for vision correction?
You must remove your glasses for your driver's license photo. If you wear glasses to drive, the DMV will note that on your license, but the photo itself cannot show them. Contact lenses are fine — you can wear them during the photo. If you have a medical reason you cannot remove your glasses, ask the DMV staff when you arrive; some states make exceptions, but you'll need documentation.
Can I retake my photo if I don't like how it looks?
Most DMV offices will let you request a retake during your appointment at no extra charge. Ask before you leave. If you've already left and received your license, retake policies vary by state — some allow it at your next renewal, others charge a fee, and some do not allow it. Call your state DMV to ask about their specific policy.
Do I need to dress a certain way for my photo?
No specific dress code is required, but wear something you're comfortable in and that you might wear regularly. Avoid bright neon colors that might clash with the background, and avoid clothing with large logos or patterns that distract from your face. The photo should look like you on an ordinary day.
What happens if I submit a photo that doesn't meet the requirements?
The DMV will reject it and ask you to resubmit a corrected photo or come in person to have one taken. They'll tell you what's wrong — usually the background, size, or clarity. You can fix it and resubmit, but this adds time to your process. It's often faster to just go to the DMV and let them take it.