Photo centers that take driver's license pictures are usually run by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, but some private businesses also offer the service
You do not have to go to the DMV itself to get your photo taken. Many states contract with photo centers — sometimes called "photo vendors" or "approved photo locations" — that handle the picture part of the license process separately. These centers take the photo, print it to the state's specifications, and either give it to you to bring to the DMV or send it directly to the DMV on your behalf.
The fastest way to find a photo center near you is to visit your state's DMV website and search for "photo center locations" or "approved photo vendors." Some states list them by county or city. A few states also let you upload a photo you took yourself at home, though this is less common and the photo must meet strict rules about background, lighting, and head position.
Photo centers typically charge between $10 and $25 for a driver's license photo, depending on your state and whether you need prints or digital copies. The DMV fee itself — which covers the license — is separate.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV website lists approved photo centers by location, and many are open on evenings and weekends when the DMV is not.
- Photo centers send your image directly to the DMV or give you a print to bring in, so you do not have to wait in line twice.
- The photo must meet state rules for background color, head size, and expression — the photo center staff know these rules and will reject photos that do not fit.
- Some states allow you to submit a photo taken at home, but the rules are strict and rejection is common; a photo center is usually faster and safer.
How to find a photo center in your state
Start by going to your state's DMV website. Look for a link labeled "photo center," "photo vendor," "approved locations," or "where to get your photo taken." Most state DMV sites have a search tool or a map where you can enter your zip code and see which centers are closest to you.
If your state's website does not have a photo center locator, call the DMV directly and ask for a list of approved vendors in your area. Some smaller states do not use photo centers at all — they require you to have your photo taken at the DMV office itself — so the phone call will tell you whether photo centers exist in your state.
When you find a center, check its hours before you go. Many photo centers stay open later than DMV offices and are open on Saturdays, which can save you time off work.
What happens when you go to a photo center
Bring your current ID or passport, even though you are only getting a photo taken. The photo center staff will verify your identity before they take the picture. You will sit in front of a plain background — usually white, blue, or beige depending on your state — and the photographer will position your head and take one or more shots.
The photo center will show you the image on a screen and ask if you want to approve it or retake it. Once you approve it, they will either print it on the special paper your state requires, or they will send it electronically to the DMV. Ask which method they use before you leave, because it affects your next step.
If the center prints the photo and gives it to you, you will bring that print to the DMV when you explore for your license. If the center sends it to the DMV electronically, the DMV will have your photo on file already, and you may not need to visit the DMV office at all — some states let you mail in your process or complete it online.
Photo rules your state requires
Every state has specific rules about how your photo must look. The background is almost always a solid, neutral color — white, light gray, or light blue. Your head must take up a certain percentage of the frame, usually between 50 and 70 percent. Your face must be straight-on, not tilted or turned, and your eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera.
You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a hat in most states, though religious head coverings are usually permitted. Your expression should be neutral — no big smile, no frown. Some states allow a natural smile; others do not. The photo center staff will know your state's exact rules and will tell you if your photo does not meet them before you pay.
If you wear glasses, the photo center will check that the lenses do not have a glare or reflection that hides your eyes. If they do, they may ask you to remove the glasses or reposition them.
Taking a photo at home instead of a photo center
Some states let you take your own photo at home and upload it when you explore for your license online. This is usually cheaper — you pay nothing for the photo itself — but the rules are very strict, and the DMV will reject your photo if it does not meet every requirement.
Your background must be a solid color with no shadows or objects behind you. Your lighting must be even across your face with no harsh shadows. Your head must be centered and straight-on. Your phone camera must be at eye level, not tilted up or down. The file size and resolution must match your state's specifications exactly.
Because the rules are so specific and rejection is common, most people find it faster and less stressful to go to a photo center. The photo center staff will get it right the first time, and you will not have to resubmit or wait for a rejection email.
What to bring to a photo center
Bring a current form of ID — a passport, an old driver's license, a state ID card, or a military ID. The photo center needs to verify your identity before taking your picture. Bring your Social Security number or a document that has it, because the photo center may need to match it to your DMV record.
Wear clothing that contrasts with the background color. If the background is white or light gray, avoid wearing white or very light colors. If you wear glasses, bring them if you plan to wear them in your photo, so the photographer can check for glare.
Bring payment — cash, debit card, or credit card, depending on what the photo center accepts. Check the center's website or call ahead to confirm the payment methods they take.
Photo center vs. DMV office: when to choose each
Go to a photo center if you want to avoid waiting in line at the DMV, if the center has hours that work better for your schedule, or if you want to get your photo taken and approved before you fill out your license process. Photo centers are also useful if you are renewing your license and your state lets you mail in the process — you can get your photo done weeks in advance.
Go to the DMV office directly if your state does not have photo centers, if you need your photo taken and your license issued on the same day, or if you have questions about your process that require talking to a DMV staff member. Some DMV offices now let you book a photo appointment online, which can reduce your wait time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup or contact lenses in my driver's license photo?
Yes to both. Makeup is fine as long as it looks natural and does not obscure your face. Contact lenses are fine too — the photo center just needs to see your eyes clearly. If you normally wear glasses, you can wear them in the photo, but the lenses cannot have a glare that hides your eyes.
What if the photo center rejects my photo?
The photo center will tell you why — usually because your head is too small, the background is wrong, or there is a shadow on your face. They will retake the photo at no extra charge. If they reject it a second time, ask the photographer to explain exactly what needs to change, or call your state's DMV to confirm the rules.
How long does it take to get a photo at a photo center?
Usually 10 to 20 minutes from the time you walk in. If the center is busy, it may take longer. If the photo center sends your image to the DMV electronically, the DMV will have it within one to three business days.
Do I have to use an approved photo center, or can I go anywhere?
You must use a photo center that your state has approved. Using an unapproved photographer means the DMV will reject your photo, and you will have to pay to get it taken again at an approved location. Stick to the list on your state's DMV website.
Can I get my photo taken at a photo center if I do not have an appointment?
Most photo centers take walk-ins, but some require appointments, especially during busy times. Call or check the center's website before you go. If you book an appointment online, you can usually choose a time that works for you and skip the wait.