Where to go for your driver license photo in Fernandina Beach

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in Fernandina Beach handles driver license photos and renewals. The office is located at 1957 South 14th Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034. This is the only DHSMV location in Fernandina Beach itself, though nearby offices in Amelia Island and Jacksonville are also options if you cannot reach this one.

The Fernandina Beach office takes photos for new licenses, renewals, and replacements. You do not need a separate photo appointment — the photo is taken as part of your license transaction when you arrive. Hours vary by season, so call ahead at the office or check the DHSMV website to confirm current hours before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • The Fernandina Beach DHSMV office at 1957 South 14th Street takes all driver license photos as part of the license transaction itself.
  • You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to have your photo taken.
  • The office does not require you to book a photo appointment in advance — photos are taken when you complete your license process or renewal.
  • Wear clothing without large logos or patterns, remove hats and sunglasses, and avoid heavy makeup or filters for the clearest photo result.
  • If you are unhappy with your photo, you can request a retake at the time it is taken, though the office may charge a small fee for a second attempt.

What documents you need to bring

Before you go to the Fernandina Beach office, gather your identification documents. You will need one primary form of ID (such as a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license) and one secondary form (such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or school ID). You also need proof that you live in Florida — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

Bring your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have your card with you, you can write the number down or have it memorized. The office will verify it against Social Security Administration records. If you are renewing an existing Florida license, bring that card as well.

How the photo process works on the day you visit

When you arrive at the Fernandina Beach office, check in at the front desk and tell staff you need a driver license photo. You will fill out the appropriate form — either a new license process (Form HSMV 82101) or a renewal form (Form HSMV 82104) — depending on whether you are getting your first license or renewing an existing one. Staff will review your documents and ask you to sit for the photo.

The photo is taken against a plain background using a digital camera. You will see the image on a screen before it is finalized. If the photo is blurry, poorly lit, or you are unhappy with how you look, you can request a retake. The office typically allows one retake at no charge, though a second retake may incur a fee. Once you approve the photo, it is embedded in your license record and cannot be changed without renewing your license.

What to wear and how to prepare for a clear photo

Wear solid-colored clothing without large logos, patterns, or busy designs. Avoid white or very light colors if possible, since they can blend with the background. Remove hats, headbands, and sunglasses before the photo is taken. Religious head coverings are permitted if they do not obscure your face.

Keep your face clear and well-lit. Avoid heavy makeup, filters, or dramatic changes to your appearance, since your license photo should match how you look day-to-day. Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. The photo will be used for identification purposes, so clarity and accuracy matter more than appearance.

Timing and what happens after your photo is taken

The photo is taken when ready during your visit — there is no waiting period. Once your photo is approved and your process is processed, you will pay the license fee (which varies depending on whether you are getting a new license, renewal, or replacement). The office will give you a temporary paper license to use while your plastic card is printed and mailed.

Your physical license card is printed at a central facility and mailed to the address you provided on your process. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, you can request expedited shipping for an additional fee at the time of your visit. Your temporary paper license is valid for driving during this waiting period.

If you need a photo retake or replacement

If your license arrives and you are unhappy with the photo, you can return to the Fernandina Beach office to request a new photo. This is treated as a license replacement, and you will pay the replacement fee. Bring your current license and the same identification documents you brought the first time.

If your photo was taken incorrectly (for example, your eyes were closed or the image is blurry), contact the Fernandina Beach office before your card arrives. Staff may be able to flag your record and retake the photo before the card is printed, which saves you a replacement fee. Call the office directly to explain the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear glasses in my driver license photo?

Yes, you can wear glasses if you normally wear them while driving. However, avoid glare on the lenses — tilt your head slightly if needed so the camera does not reflect off the glass. If you wear bifocals, look straight ahead rather than down, so your eyes are clearly visible.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN, such as a tax return or IRS letter. The Fernandina Beach office will verify it the same way they verify a Social Security number.

How long does the photo appointment take?

The entire visit — checking in, filling out forms, having your photo taken, and paying fees — typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Wait times vary depending on how busy the office is. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week usually means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays.

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

No. You must be present to have your photo taken. The photo is part of the identity verification process, so the DHSMV requires you to appear in person. You cannot have someone else take the photo on your behalf.

What if my photo does not match my face after I receive my license?

If your appearance has changed significantly since the photo was taken (for example, you grew a beard or changed your hair color), your license is still valid. However, if you are concerned about how different you look, you can renew your license early to get a new photo. Contact the Fernandina Beach office to discuss your options.