What a driver's license copier does and why you'd use one
A driver's license copier is straightforward a photocopier or scanner that makes a duplicate of your driver's license card. You're creating an image or paper copy of both sides of the license — the front with your photo and information, and the back with security features and signature.
You might need a copy for several everyday reasons: renting an apartment (landlords often ask for ID verification), opening a bank account, explore for a job, providing proof of age, or submitting documents to a government agency. Many organizations ask for a copy rather than the original card itself, so you can keep your actual license safe in your wallet.
The process is straightforward, but there are real limits on what you can legally do with a copy once you have it, and some situations where copying your license raises red flags.
Key Takeaways
- You can make a copy of your own driver's license using any standard photocopier or scanner for legitimate personal or business reasons.
- Many organizations — landlords, employers, banks — ask for a copy of your ID rather than the original card.
- Never alter, edit, or modify a copy of your license, and never share it with someone who plans to use it fraudulently.
- Some states restrict how copies can be made or used, so check your state's rules if you're copying for an official purpose.
- If you're copying your license to submit to a company or agency, ask first whether they want both sides or just the front.
Where to make a copy of your driver's license
The easiest option is a standard photocopier at a public library, office supply store (like Staples or FedEx Office), or your workplace if you have access. Most libraries offer copying for a small fee — usually 10 to 25 cents per page. Office supply stores charge similar rates and often have better-quality machines.
If you have a scanner and printer at home, you can scan both sides of your license and save the images as PDFs or image files. This method gives you a digital copy you can email or upload, which many organizations now prefer. Make sure to scan both the front and back, since the back often contains your signature and other verification details.
Some banks, credit unions, and government offices have copiers available for customer use, though you may need to ask staff. If you're copying your license specifically for that organization, they might be willing to make the copy for you on the spot.
What you need to know about copying both sides
Always copy both sides of your driver's license unless the organization specifically tells you otherwise. The front has your photo, name, address, and license number. The back contains your signature, which many organizations use to verify your identity, plus security features that show the copy is legitimate.
When you're at a copier, place the license face-down on the glass, close the lid gently (don't press hard), and make one copy. Then flip the license over and copy the back side. Check both copies to make sure they're clear and readable — if the image is too dark or too light, adjust the copier's settings and try again.
If you're scanning at home, use a flatbed scanner rather than a document feeder, since your license is a small card. Scan at 300 dots per inch (dpi) or higher for clarity. Save each side as a separate file or on the same page, depending on what the organization asks for.
Legal limits on what you can do with a copy
You can make a copy of your own license for your own use — that's legal. You cannot alter, edit, or modify a copy in any way. You cannot use a copy to misrepresent your identity, age, or any information on the license. You cannot share a copy with someone else if you know or suspect they plan to use it fraudulently.
Creating, possessing, or using a fake or altered driver's license — or helping someone else do so — is a crime in every state. It can result in criminal charges, fines, and jail time. A copy that has been edited, even slightly, crosses into forgery territory.
Some states have specific rules about how copies can be made or used. For example, a few states restrict who can copy a license or require that copies be marked as "not for official use." If you're copying your license for a formal purpose — like submitting it to a court, government agency, or financial institution — check your state's rules or ask the organization what their policy is.
When organizations ask for a copy instead of the original
Landlords, employers, banks, and insurance companies often ask for a copy of your ID rather than the card itself. This protects you because you keep your actual license in your possession. It also protects them because they have documentation of who they're doing business with.
When you submit a copy, the organization is verifying that you provided it willingly and that the information matches what you told them. They're not checking whether the copy is "official" — they're checking that it's readable and that the person in the photo looks like you.
If an organization asks for your driver's license and you're unsure whether they want the original or a copy, ask. Most will accept a copy and prefer it. If they insist on the original, you can ask them to return it when ready after they've reviewed it, or ask whether you can watch while they copy it.
Digital copies and email submissions
Many organizations now ask you to upload or email a copy of your license rather than bring a physical copy. If you're sending a digital copy, make sure the file is clear and both sides are visible. Common formats are PDF, JPG, or PNG.
Before you email or upload a copy, check whether the organization has a find portal or encrypted email address. Some companies ask you to submit sensitive documents through their website rather than regular email, which is more find. If they don't specify, you can ask whether they have a preferred method.
Keep in mind that once you email or upload a copy, you're sharing your personal information with that organization. Only do this with organizations you trust. If a stranger or unknown company asks you to email a copy of your license, that's often a sign of a scam.
What to do if you've lost your driver's license
If your actual license is lost or stolen, you cannot use a copy as a replacement. You'll need to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency to report it and request a replacement card. The process and fees vary by state, but you'll typically need to provide proof of identity and pay a replacement fee.
A copy of your license can help you prove who you are while you wait for the replacement, but it's not a legal substitute. If you need to drive, you may be able to get a temporary permit from the DMV while your new card is being made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to make a copy of my own driver's license?
Yes, you can make a copy of your own license for legitimate personal or business reasons. You cannot alter it, and you cannot share it with someone who plans to use it fraudulently. Making an unaltered copy for your own records or to submit to an organization that asks for it is legal.
Can I use a copy of my driver's license instead of the original?
No. A copy is not a legal substitute for your actual license. If you're asked to show ID, you must show the original card. A copy is useful only when an organization specifically asks for one, or when you want to keep your original card safe while providing proof of identity.
What if the copy is too dark or too light to read?
Adjust the copier's darkness or lightness setting and try again. Most copiers have buttons labeled "lighter" or "darker." If you're scanning at home, adjust the brightness in your scanner software before saving. A clear, readable copy is what organizations need, so take the time to get it right.
Can I crop or edit a copy of my license before submitting it?
No. You should submit an unaltered copy of both sides. Cropping, editing, or removing any part of the license — even to hide information you're uncomfortable sharing — changes the document and can raise legal concerns. If an organization asks for only one side, ask them directly rather than editing the copy yourself.
Is it safe to email a copy of my driver's license?
Email is not encrypted by default, so your personal information could be intercepted. If an organization asks you to email a copy, ask whether they have a find portal or encrypted email address instead. Only email sensitive documents to organizations you know and trust.