Getting your driver license photo taken in Pembroke Pines

You can get your driver license photo taken at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in Pembroke Pines, located at 601 North Flamingo Road. This is the official location where the state takes your photograph for your license. The photo is taken during your appointment when you renew, replace, or first obtain your license.

You do not need to bring your own photo — the DHSMV photographer takes it on-site as part of the licensing process. The photo must meet Florida's requirements: you must face the camera directly, have a neutral expression, and wear no sunglasses or hats (unless for religious reasons). The background is always plain and controlled by the office.

To schedule an appointment at the Pembroke Pines location, visit the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov or call 1-844-435-7352. Walk-ins are accepted at some times, but appointment wait times are typically shorter. Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any other documents required for your specific transaction (renewal, replacement, or new license).

Key Takeaways

  • The DHSMV office in Pembroke Pines at 601 North Flamingo Road is where your driver license photo is taken by state staff.
  • You cannot bring your own photo — Florida requires the photo to be taken at the DHSMV office during your appointment.
  • Schedule an appointment through flhsmv.gov or by calling 1-844-435-7352 to reduce wait time.
  • Your photo must show your face directly with a neutral expression and no sunglasses or hats, unless worn for religious reasons.

What to expect when you arrive for your photo

When you arrive at your appointment, check in at the front desk and wait for your number to be called. A DHSMV staff member will direct you to the photo station, which is a separate area with controlled lighting and a plain background. The photographer will position you, take one or two shots, and show you the image on a screen to confirm it meets requirements.

If you are unhappy with the photo, you can request a retake on the spot. The photographer will take another image. Once you approve the photo, it is attached to your license record and cannot be changed until your next renewal or replacement.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your current valid ID (passport, military ID, or previous Florida driver license). You will also need proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you are renewing, bring your current license. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, bring a police report or affidavit of loss.

If this is your first Florida license, bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, your birth certificate or passport, and proof of legal presence in the United States. The DHSMV website lists the full set of acceptable documents for each transaction type.

Hours and location details for Pembroke Pines

The Pembroke Pines DHSMV office is located at 601 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33025. Hours vary by day and change seasonally, so check flhsmv.gov or call ahead before you go. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with limited Saturday hours at some locations.

Parking is available on-site. The office is accessible by car from Interstate 95 and is near major shopping areas. If you are using public transportation, check the Broward County Transit website for bus routes to this location.

What happens to your photo after it is taken

Your photo is stored in the DHSMV database and printed on your physical driver license card. The image is also used for the state's facial recognition system, which law enforcement can access during traffic stops or investigations. Your photo remains on file until your license expires and you renew it, at which time a new photo is taken.

You cannot request a copy of your driver license photo directly from DHSMV. However, your photo appears on your physical license, which you receive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your appointment. If you need a digital copy for another purpose, you would need to contact the specific organization requesting it (employer, school, etc.) to see if they have other options.

If you need to replace your photo before renewal

You can get a new driver license photo taken before your license expires only if you are replacing your license for a specific reason — such as a name change, address change, or if your current license is damaged. You cannot replace your license solely to get a new photo. If you want a new photo, you must wait until your renewal date or pay for a replacement license for one of the valid reasons listed above.

The cost of a replacement license varies depending on the reason. Check the DHSMV website or call the Pembroke Pines office for the current fee. If you are renewing on your normal renewal date, there is no extra charge for a new photo — it is included in the renewal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear makeup or glasses in my driver license photo?

Yes, you can wear makeup and regular eyeglasses. However, you cannot wear sunglasses, and your eyes must be clearly visible. If you wear glasses, make sure there is no glare on the lenses. Religious head coverings are permitted as long as your face is fully visible from forehead to chin.

What if I do not like my photo after I leave the office?

You cannot change your photo until your next renewal or replacement. If the photo does not meet state requirements (eyes closed, face not visible, etc.), contact the Pembroke Pines office and explain the issue. They may allow you to return for a retake, but this is not may provide and depends on the specific problem.

How long does the photo appointment take?

The photo itself takes only a few minutes. Your total appointment time depends on how busy the office is and what other transactions you are completing (renewal, address change, etc.). Plan for 30 minutes to an hour if you have an appointment, or longer if you walk in.

Can someone else pick up my license if I cannot go to the appointment?

No. You must be present for your photo to be taken. You cannot send someone else to take your photo for you. If you cannot make your scheduled appointment, cancel it through flhsmv.gov and book a new one.

Do I need to make an appointment or can I just walk in?

Both options are available. Appointments are recommended because they typically have shorter wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait 1 to 2 hours depending on how busy the office is. Check flhsmv.gov to see current wait times before you go.