Where to get a new driver's license photo taken
You can get a new photo taken at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, or at an authorized third-party location if your state allows it. Most states let you walk in without an appointment, though some require you to book a time slot online or by phone first. A few states now let you upload a digital photo from home, but this is not yet available everywhere.
The photo itself takes about five minutes. You'll stand in front of a plain background, remove glasses or hats (unless required for religious or medical reasons), and look directly at the camera. The DMV staff member will take the photo on the spot. Some offices have you take the photo yourself using a kiosk, which works the same way.
Check your state's DMV website to find the office nearest you and see whether appointments are required. If your state allows third-party photo services, the DMV site will list which retailers (often pharmacies or shipping centers) can take the photo.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you update your driver's license photo at any DMV office, and many allow third-party locations like pharmacies to take the photo instead.
- You'll need to bring your current driver's license and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- The photo update usually costs between $5 and $25, depending on your state and whether you renew your full license at the same time.
- Photo-only updates typically take one to two weeks to arrive by mail, though some states offer a temporary digital license while you wait.
What documents to bring
Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your current address. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government-issued ID with your current address also works.
If you've changed your name since your license was issued, bring a document proving the legal change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you've moved to a new state, you'll need to follow that state's process for a new license rather than updating your photo on an out-of-state license.
The cost and what it covers
A photo-only update typically costs between $5 and $25, depending on your state. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge more if you also renew your license at the same time. A few states offer the photo update for free if your license is still valid and you're not changing any other information.
When you pay for a photo update, you're paying for the new photo to be taken and printed on a replacement card. Your license number, expiration date, and all other information stay the same. If your license is expiring soon, some states will let you renew the full license and update the photo together for a single fee, which may cost less than doing them separately.
How long the new photo takes to arrive
After your photo is taken, the new card is mailed to the address on your license. Standard delivery takes one to two weeks in most states, though some states take up to three weeks. A few states offer expedited mail for an extra fee if you need the card faster.
While you wait for the new card, your current license remains valid. Some states issue a temporary digital license that you can show on your phone when ready after the photo is taken, which you can use while the physical card is in the mail. Check your state's DMV website to see whether this option is available.
Updating your photo without visiting an office
A growing number of states let you upload a digital photo online instead of going to an office. You take a photo of yourself using your phone or computer, upload it to the DMV website, and pay the fee. The DMV reviews the photo to make sure it meets their requirements (good lighting, plain background, both eyes visible, no filters). If it's approved, a new card is mailed to you.
Not all states offer this option yet, and rules vary. Some states only allow online photo updates if your license is not expiring soon. Others require you to have a valid email address on file. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can update your photo online, and what the specific rules are.
What happens if your photo is rejected
If you upload a photo online and the DMV rejects it, they'll send you an email explaining why. Common reasons include poor lighting, a background that isn't plain, glasses that create a glare, or a facial expression that doesn't meet requirements. You can usually upload a new photo right away and resubmit.
If you take a photo at an office and the staff member says it doesn't meet requirements, they'll ask you to take another one on the spot. This happens rarely, but it can occur if the lighting is poor, your eyes are closed, or you're not facing the camera directly. The staff member will help you adjust and take a second photo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my photo if my license is expired?
No, most states require your license to be valid or only recently expired (usually within one to two years). If your license is expired beyond that window, you'll need to renew the full license rather than just update the photo. Check your state's DMV website for the specific expiration window.
Do I need to smile in my driver's license photo?
No. Most states allow a neutral expression or a slight smile, but do not require smiling. The key requirement is that your face is clearly visible, well-lit, and facing the camera directly. Avoid extreme expressions or anything that makes your face hard to recognize.
What if I wear glasses or contacts?
You can wear glasses in your photo, but the DMV prefers that you don't if possible, because glare from the lenses can make your eyes hard to see. If you wear glasses for vision correction and need them to see clearly, you can keep them on. Sunglasses are never allowed. Contacts do not show in a photo, so they're fine to wear.
How often can I update my driver's license photo?
Most states let you update your photo as often as you want, though some charge a fee each time. A few states limit photo updates to once per license term. Check your state's rules, but in general, if you want a new photo, you can get one.
Can someone else pick up my new license card?
No. Driver's licenses are mailed to the address on file and require your signature upon delivery in most states. You cannot have someone else sign for it. If you're moving, update your address with the DMV before you take the new photo so the card is mailed to the right place.