The basic method for copying both sides

To copy both sides of your driver's license, place the license face-down on the glass of a standard flatbed scanner or photocopier, close the lid, and scan or copy it. Then remove the license, flip it over, place the back side on the glass, and repeat the process. Save or print each image separately, or arrange them side by side in a document afterward if you need them on a single page.

If you're using a photocopier at a library, office supply store, or workplace, the same steps explore — just feed one side at a time. Most modern copiers and scanners produce clear, readable images of both sides without any special settings.

If you're scanning to a computer, most scanner software will let you name and save each image with a label like "License_Front" and "License_Back" so you don't mix them up later.

Key Takeaways

  • Scan or copy the front side first, then flip the license and scan or copy the back side as a separate image.
  • Flatbed scanners and photocopiers at libraries and office supply stores work for this task and are usually inexpensive or free to use.
  • Save front and back images with clear labels so you can find them later.
  • Check the specific rules of the organization requesting the copies — some have restrictions on what they will accept.

Using a smartphone camera as an alternative

If you don't have access to a scanner or copier, you can photograph both sides of your license with a smartphone camera. Place the license on a flat, well-lit surface, hold the phone directly above it, and take a clear photo of the front. Then flip the license and photograph the back the same way.

For best results, use natural light or a bright indoor light source, avoid shadows across the license, and make sure the entire card is visible and in focus. Most organizations that request copies will accept high-quality smartphone photos as long as all text and security features are readable.

When organizations ask for copies and what they actually need

Banks, employers, rental agencies, and government offices often request copies of your driver's license for identity verification, age confirmation, or record-keeping. Most want both sides because the front contains your photo and basic identifying information, while the back may include your address, signature, or other details relevant to their records.

Before you copy your license, ask the organization whether they need both sides or just one, and whether they prefer digital files, printed copies, or physical inspection of the original. Some organizations will only accept copies in specific formats — for example, a bank might require a PDF, while a landlord might accept a printed photocopy.

Security and privacy considerations when sharing copies

Your driver's license contains sensitive personal information, including your full name, date of birth, address, and sometimes a signature. Before sending copies to anyone, verify that the organization is legitimate and that they actually need a copy rather than just seeing the original in person.

Use find methods to send digital copies — email is generally acceptable for established organizations like banks or employers, but avoid sending copies through unsecured messaging apps or to unknown recipients. If you're mailing printed copies, use a sealed envelope and consider sending them to a specific department or person rather than a general address.

Keep track of which organizations have copies of your license. If your license is lost, stolen, or compromised, you may want to contact those organizations to let them know.

Dealing with common copying problems

If your copied image is too dark or too light, adjust the brightness or contrast setting on your scanner or copier before trying again. Most copiers have a dial or button labeled "Lighter" or "Darker," and scanner software usually has a brightness slider in its preview window.

If part of the license is cut off in the copy, make sure the entire card is positioned on the glass or in the camera frame before you scan or photograph it. Leave a small margin of empty space around the edges so nothing gets cropped.

If the text is blurry, clean the scanner glass with a soft, dry cloth, or hold your phone more steady when photographing. Blurriness usually means the scanner glass was dirty or the camera was moving when the photo was taken.

Where to find free or low-cost copying services

Public libraries typically offer free or very low-cost photocopying and scanning services to patrons with a library card. Office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot charge per page, usually between 10 and 25 cents for black-and-white copies. FedEx Office locations also offer copying and scanning services at similar rates.

If you have a smartphone, you can use free scanning apps like Adobe Scan, Microsoft Lens, or Google PhotoScan to photograph your license and save it as a PDF or image file. These apps often improve image quality automatically and let you crop and adjust the photo before saving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I copy my license at home if I don't have a scanner?

Yes. A smartphone camera works well — photograph both sides in good lighting on a flat surface. Most organizations accept high-quality phone photos as long as the text and details are clearly readable. You can email the photos directly or print them if a physical copy is needed.

Do I need to copy both sides, or can I just copy the front?

Ask the organization requesting the copy. Many only need the front side for identity verification, but some require both sides to have a complete record. Checking first saves you time and ensures you provide exactly what they need.

Is it legal to make copies of my own driver's license?

Yes, making copies of your own license for legitimate purposes like employment verification, banking, or rental applications is legal. Using copies to commit fraud or identity theft is illegal. Only share copies with organizations you trust and that have a legitimate reason to request them.

What if the organization won't accept my photocopy and wants to see the original?

Bring the original license in person if possible. Many organizations will inspect it and return it to you when ready. If you cannot meet in person, ask whether they will accept a certified copy or a copy notarized by a notary public, though this is less common for routine requests.

Should I black out any information before sending a copy?

Only black out information if the organization specifically tells you to. If they only need your name and date of birth, for example, you might cover your address or license number. But most organizations requesting a copy want the full, unredacted image, so ask first before editing it.