Yes, you can change your driver's license photo, but the process and cost depend on your state and why you want the change
Most states allow you to request a new photo during a license renewal, and some let you replace just the photo without renewing the entire license. A few states charge nothing for a photo update; others charge $10 to $30. The fastest route is usually your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, which often lets you schedule an appointment and sometimes upload a new photo before you go in. If your state doesn't offer online photo updates, you'll need to visit a DMV office in person with a new photo or have one taken there.
The rules change if your photo is unacceptable to your state — for example, if you're wearing sunglasses, a hat, or religious head covering that obscures your face. Some states have specific rules about what counts as a valid photo, and if yours doesn't meet them, you may be required to submit a new one rather than asked. This guide explains the main routes, what documents you'll need, and what to expect at each step.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you update your photo during a regular renewal or through a separate photo-only transaction, though a few require you to renew the entire license to change the photo.
- You can usually schedule a DMV appointment online and sometimes upload your new photo before you arrive, which cuts down time in the office.
- Bring a valid photo ID (passport, military ID, or current driver's license) and proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease, even if you're only changing the photo.
- If your current photo violates your state's rules — such as wearing sunglasses or a hat — you may be required to submit a new one when you renew.
- Photo-only updates usually cost $10 to $30 if there is a fee; some states charge nothing, and some waive the fee if you're updating due to a name or address change.
Photo-only updates versus full license renewal
A photo-only update means you keep your current license number and expiration date and just replace the image. This is the fastest and cheapest option if your license is still valid and you only want a new photo. Not all states offer this — some require you to renew the entire license to change the photo, which means a new license number and a new expiration date. Check your state's DMV website to see which option is available to you.
If your state does offer photo-only updates, the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes at a DMV office, or sometimes you can do it entirely online. Some states let you upload a digital photo on their website and pick it up by mail within two to three weeks. A full renewal, by contrast, takes longer because the DMV has to process a new license number and print a new card, which typically takes one to two weeks.
How to request a photo update online
Start by visiting your state's DMV website and looking for "renew license," "update photo," or "license services." Most states have a section that lets you check whether you're may be able to access for an online or mail-in renewal. If you are, you'll usually be asked to upload a new digital photo, answer a few questions about your current address and any name changes, and pay a fee by credit or debit card.
The photo must meet your state's requirements, which typically mean a plain background, no sunglasses or hats, and your face clearly visible and centered. Your state's DMV website will show you an example of an acceptable photo. If you don't have a digital photo ready, some states let you take one with your phone camera and upload it directly. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number and a timeline for when your new license will arrive — usually one to three weeks.
If your state doesn't offer online photo updates, you'll need to schedule an in-person appointment through the DMV website. Most states now require appointments to manage office traffic, and you can usually book one for a specific date and time. Bring your current license, a valid photo ID if it's different from your license, and proof of your current address.
What to bring to a DMV office for a photo update
Bring your current driver's license and one form of valid photo ID — a passport, military ID, or state ID card. If you don't have a second photo ID, bring your current license and proof of your address, such as a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Some states also accept a phone bill or insurance statement.
If you've changed your name since your license was issued, bring a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you've moved, bring proof of your new address. You don't need to bring a printed photo — the DMV will take a new one on-site, though some states let you bring a photo you've had taken elsewhere if you prefer.
Photo requirements and common rejection reasons
Your state's DMV has specific rules about what makes a photo acceptable. The most common requirements are: your face must be clearly visible and centered, your eyes must be open and looking at the camera, the background must be plain and light-colored, and you cannot wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a hat. Religious head coverings are usually allowed if they don't obscure your face, but check your state's rules.
Photos are rejected most often because the background is patterned or too dark, the person is wearing sunglasses or a hat, or the face is partially obscured. If you're submitting a digital photo online and it's rejected, the DMV will usually tell you why and let you upload a new one. If you're at a DMV office and the photo the staff member takes doesn't meet requirements, they'll take another one on the spot at no extra charge.
Cost and processing time for photo updates
A photo-only update costs between $0 and $30, depending on your state. Some states charge nothing; others charge a flat fee of $10 to $20. A few states waive the fee if you're updating your photo because of a name or address change. A full license renewal costs more — typically $30 to $100 — because you're getting a new card with a new number and expiration date.
Processing time varies by state and method. If you submit your photo online, expect one to three weeks for your new license to arrive by mail. If you go to a DMV office for a photo-only update, you may be able to get a temporary license on the spot and receive your new card by mail within one to two weeks. A full renewal usually takes the same timeline. During busy seasons — typically spring and summer — processing can take longer, so check your state's website for current wait times.
What happens if your current photo violates state rules
If your current driver's license photo doesn't meet your state's rules — for example, you're wearing sunglasses or a hat — you may be required to submit a new photo when you renew your license. Some states flag these photos automatically and send you a notice asking you to update it. Others don't require an update until your license expires and you renew.
If you receive a notice that your photo is unacceptable, follow the instructions on the notice. You can usually submit a new photo by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. If you ignore the notice and your license expires, you won't be able to renew it until you provide an acceptable photo. If you're stopped by law enforcement and your photo is deemed invalid, your license may be considered invalid as well, though enforcement of this varies by state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photo I took myself with my phone?
Yes, if you're submitting a digital photo online. Your state's DMV website will show you the exact requirements — usually a plain background, good lighting, and your face centered and clearly visible. If you're going to a DMV office, the staff will take a new photo for you, but some states let you bring a professional photo if you prefer not to use the one taken on-site.
How long does it take to get a new license after I submit a photo update?
Online submissions typically take one to three weeks for your new license to arrive by mail. If you go to a DMV office, you may receive a temporary license on the spot and get your permanent card by mail within one to two weeks. Processing times are longer during busy seasons, so check your state's DMV website for current timelines.
Do I need an appointment to update my photo at a DMV office?
Most states now require appointments, which you can book on the DMV website. A few states still accept walk-ins, but appointment slots fill up quickly. Booking online usually lets you choose a specific date and time and cuts down your wait at the office.
What if I've changed my name since my license was issued?
Bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name and photo at the same time. This usually counts as a full renewal, so you'll get a new license number and expiration date.
Can I update my photo if my license is expired?
No, you cannot update only the photo on an expired license. You'll need to renew your entire license, which means a new license number, expiration date, and photo. Go to your state's DMV website and follow the renewal process for an expired license.