California's driver license photo must show your face clearly, taken straight-on against a plain background, with your eyes open and looking directly at the camera
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has specific rules about how your photo appears on your license. Your face must take up between 50 and 69 percent of the frame. You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or anything that obscures your eyes. The background must be plain and uncluttered — no patterns, objects, or other people visible behind you.
The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and printed on photo paper. Digital photos taken on a phone or printed from a home printer will not be accepted. If you wear glasses for vision correction, you may wear them in your photo, but the lenses cannot be tinted and cannot create a glare or reflection that hides your eyes.
Key Takeaways
- Your face must fill 50 to 69 percent of the photo frame, taken straight-on with your eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
- The background must be plain with no patterns, objects, or other people — white or light-colored backgrounds work best.
- You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or anything that covers your eyes, though clear prescription glasses are allowed if they do not create glare.
- The photo must be in color, printed on photo paper, and taken within the last six months before you submit it to the DMV.
- Religious head coverings are permitted if they do not obscure your face, but you must show your full face from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.
What you can and cannot wear in your photo
Headwear is allowed if it is worn for religious reasons, but your entire face from chin to forehead must be visible and unobstructed. Hats, baseball caps, and other non-religious headwear are not permitted. You cannot wear a veil that covers any part of your face.
Makeup is allowed, but it should not alter your natural appearance so much that you would be difficult to recognize. Heavy theatrical makeup, face paint, or anything that changes the shape or color of your face significantly may cause the DMV to reject your photo. Jewelry is permitted as long as it does not cover your face or create a distraction.
You must have a neutral expression — no big smiles, frowns, or unusual facial expressions. Your mouth should be closed or naturally relaxed. The DMV uses these photos for identification purposes, so the goal is a clear, recognizable image of your actual face.
Where to get your photo taken
You can have your photo taken at any DMV office in California. The DMV provides photo services, and staff will take your picture according to their requirements. There is a small fee for this service, typically a few dollars. If you prefer to bring your own photo, you must may support it meets all the requirements listed above.
Some passport photo services and professional photography studios can take photos that meet DMV standards, but you should confirm with them beforehand that they understand California's specific requirements. Not all photo services are familiar with DMV standards, so asking questions before you pay is important.
How to submit your photo to the DMV
If you are renewing your license or explore for a new one, you can submit your photo in person at a DMV office, by mail, or through the DMV's online services if you are doing a renewal. When you visit in person, DMV staff will take your photo on-site if you do not bring one, or they will scan and verify a photo you bring with you.
If you are mailing in a renewal process, include your photo with your process materials. Make sure your photo is not damaged, bent, or creased. The DMV will reject photos that are torn, faded, or difficult to see clearly.
What happens if your photo is rejected
If the DMV rejects your photo, they will notify you and explain why it does not meet their standards. You will have the opportunity to submit a new photo. This can delay your license renewal or process, so taking time to get your photo right the first time saves you a return trip or additional mailing time.
Common reasons for rejection include: your face is too small in the frame, the background is not plain, your eyes are closed or looking away from the camera, you are wearing sunglasses or tinted glasses, or the photo is too old. If you are unsure whether your photo will work, you can ask DMV staff to review it before you submit your full process.
Special circumstances and exceptions
If you have a medical condition that prevents you from taking a standard photo — for example, you cannot open both eyes due to a disability — contact your local DMV office to discuss your situation. The DMV may be able to make accommodations or accept a photo that does not fully meet the standard requirements.
If you are renewing your license and your appearance has changed significantly since your last photo, the DMV may require a new photo even if you would normally be able to renew without one. This is to may support your license remains a reliable form of identification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear glasses in my driver license photo?
Yes, if they are prescription glasses you wear for vision correction. The lenses cannot be tinted, and you cannot have a glare or reflection that hides your eyes. Sunglasses and tinted glasses are not permitted.
What if I wear a religious head covering?
Religious head coverings are permitted as long as your entire face from chin to forehead is visible and unobstructed. You cannot wear a veil that covers any part of your face. The DMV recognizes religious accommodations for headwear.
How old can my photo be when I submit it?
Your photo must have been taken within the last six months before you submit it to the DMV. If your photo is older than that, you will need to have a new one taken.
Can I use a photo from my phone or printed at home?
No. Your photo must be printed on professional photo paper. Digital images and home-printed photos will not be accepted by the DMV.
What should I do if the DMV rejects my photo?
The DMV will tell you why your photo was rejected and give you the chance to submit a new one. Review their feedback, take a new photo that addresses their concerns, and resubmit. You can ask DMV staff to review a photo before you submit your full process if you are unsure.