How Texas handles your driver license photo
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) takes your photo when you explore for or renew your driver license. You cannot bring your own photo — DPS takes it on the spot at the office where you explore. The photo becomes part of your official license and is used to verify your identity.
Texas has specific rules about what you can and cannot wear or do in your photo. Understanding these rules before you go in saves time and means you will not have to retake the photo or come back another day.
Key Takeaways
- DPS takes your photo at the driver license office; you cannot submit your own photo or use one from a previous license.
- You must remove hats, sunglasses, and most head coverings unless you have a religious or medical reason, which you will need to document.
- Your photo must show your natural eye color and face clearly, with no filters, heavy makeup, or objects blocking your features.
- If you are unhappy with your photo, you can request a new one at your next renewal or visit, though DPS may charge a fee for a replacement photo taken before your renewal date.
What you can and cannot wear in your photo
You must remove hats, baseball caps, and headbands. You must also remove sunglasses and tinted eyeglasses. If you wear prescription glasses, you can keep them on, but the lenses cannot be tinted and must not create a glare that hides your eyes.
Head coverings for religious reasons are permitted — for example, a hijab, turban, or head wrap. You will need to sign a statement at the DPS office confirming the covering is worn for religious purposes. Medical head coverings, such as a head scarf worn because of hair loss from chemotherapy, are also allowed with documentation from a doctor or medical provider.
Avoid heavy makeup, false eyelashes, or anything that significantly changes your appearance from day to day. Your photo should look like you on an ordinary day, because it will be used to identify you if you are stopped by law enforcement or need to verify your identity.
Rules about your face and expression
Your eyes must be open and visible. You cannot wear colored contact lenses that change your eye color from your natural color — the photo must show your actual eye color. Do not use filters, digital effects, or any kind of photo editing.
You should face the camera directly and have a neutral expression. You can have a slight smile, but exaggerated expressions or unusual poses will not be accepted. Your entire face must be visible and in focus — no part of your face can be hidden by your hand, hair, or an object.
What happens if your photo does not meet the rules
If the DPS photographer sees that your appearance does not meet the photo requirements, they will ask you to adjust — remove a hat, reposition your hair, or take off sunglasses. You will retake the photo at that moment, at no extra charge, as part of your process or renewal visit.
If you are unhappy with how your photo turned out after it has been taken, you have options. At your next license renewal, you will receive a new photo as part of the renewal process. If you want a new photo before your renewal date, you can visit a DPS office and request a replacement photo. DPS may charge a fee for this service; the amount varies, so call your local DPS office to ask what they charge.
How your photo is stored and used
Your driver license photo is stored in the DPS database and is linked to your license number. Law enforcement can access your photo when they run your license during a traffic stop or investigation. Your photo is also used if you need to verify your identity at a bank, airport, or other location that accepts a driver license as ID.
DPS does not sell your photo to third parties. Your photo is a public record under Texas law, meaning anyone can request to see it through a public records request, though DPS may charge a fee to process the request.
Renewing your license and getting a new photo
When you renew your driver license in Texas, you will get a new photo taken as part of the renewal process. You cannot keep your old photo on your new license. This happens whether you renew in person at a DPS office or through the mail (if you are renewing by mail, you will still need to visit an office for your photo at some point during the renewal cycle).
If you have changed your appearance significantly since your last photo — for example, you have gained or lost a lot of weight, changed your hair color, or had surgery — your new photo will reflect that. This is normal and expected. If you are concerned about how different you look, remember that your photo should match your current appearance so that it can be used to identify you.
Special situations and exceptions
If you have a medical condition that prevents you from looking directly at the camera or holding your head in a certain position, bring documentation from your doctor. DPS will work with you to take a photo that meets safety and identification standards while accommodating your condition.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, DPS offices have interpreters available. Let the staff know when you arrive, and they will arrange an interpreter to help you understand the photo requirements and any other instructions.
If you are transgender and your photo no longer matches your current appearance or gender identity, you can update your license. You will need to provide documentation of your name change (if applicable) and can request a new photo at that time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup or nail polish in my driver license photo?
Yes, you can wear makeup and nail polish. The rule is that your makeup should not be so heavy or unusual that it significantly changes your appearance or hides your face. Everyday makeup is fine. Avoid theatrical makeup, heavy glitter, or anything that makes you look very different from how you appear on a normal day.
What if I do not like my photo after it is printed on my license?
You cannot change the photo that is already on your license. You can request a replacement photo at a DPS office before your renewal date, though there may be a fee. At your next renewal, you will automatically receive a new photo. If your photo is damaged or unclear, contact DPS to see if they will replace it at no charge.
Do I have to show my teeth in my photo?
No. A neutral expression with your mouth closed is fine. You can have a slight smile if you want, but you do not have to. The photo just needs to show your face clearly so you can be identified.
Can I wear a wig or hairpiece in my driver license photo?
Yes, as long as it looks natural and does not hide your face or eyes. If you normally wear a wig or hairpiece, you can wear it in your photo. Just make sure your face is fully visible and your eyes are clear and open.
What if I was wearing glasses when my photo was taken but I do not usually wear them?
Your photo will show you wearing glasses. If you do not normally wear glasses, you can request a new photo at your next renewal or visit a DPS office for a replacement photo. For future renewals, wear whatever you normally wear so your photo matches your everyday appearance.