Where to Get Your Driver's License Photo Taken

Photo centers for driver's licenses are usually run by your state's DMV or Department of Motor Vehicles, but you can also use private photo studios and some retail locations that offer the service

When you need a new driver's license photo, you have three main routes: go directly to a DMV office, use a private photo studio that specializes in state ID photos, or visit a retail chain that offers photo services. Each route has different costs, wait times, and rules about what makes a photo acceptable. Your state's DMV website lists the exact requirements for your photo — background color, head position, glasses rules, and file format — and these rules are strict enough that a photo rejected by one state may not work for another.

The fastest option is often a private photo studio, because they know the state rules and can retake the photo on the spot if it does not meet requirements. DMV offices can take your photo when you renew or replace your license, but you may wait in line for hours. Retail chains like Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens offer photo services at lower cost than studios, but not all locations do driver's license photos, and staff at these places are less likely to know your state's specific rules.

Key Takeaways

Your state's DMV website publishes the exact photo requirements — background color, lighting, head size, and whether glasses are allowed — and photos that do not meet these rules will be rejected.
Private photo studios that advertise state ID photos usually cost between $10 and $25 and can retake your photo when ready if it does not pass the first time.
DMV offices will take your photo when you renew your license, but you cannot get a photo-only service at most locations — you have to renew or replace the license itself.
Retail photo services at chains like Walmart and CVS are cheaper but may not know your state's rules, so confirm the location offers driver's license photos before you go.

What your state requires in a driver's license photo

Every state has a written standard for driver's license photos, and the DMV will reject your photo if it does not meet that standard. The rules cover background color (usually white or off-white), head position (straight-on, eyes open, natural expression), head size (your face should fill a certain percentage of the frame), and whether you can wear glasses. Some states allow glasses if there is no glare on the lenses; others ban them entirely. A few states have rules about facial hair, head coverings for religious reasons, or whether you can smile.

Find your state's exact photo requirements on your DMV's website — search "[your state] DMV driver's license photo requirements" and look for a page that shows sample photos and measurements. Print this page or take a screenshot before you go to a photo studio, because the studio staff can use it to make sure your photo will pass. If you use a retail location, bring the requirements with you, because the staff may not have them on hand.

DMV offices and when they take photos

Your state's DMV office will take your photo when you renew your driver's license, replace a lost or damaged license, or change your address. You cannot walk in and request a photo-only service at most DMV locations — the photo is part of the license transaction. If your current license photo is outdated or unflattering, you can request a new photo when you renew, but you will have to pay the renewal fee (usually $20 to $50) even if your license is not expiring soon. Some states allow you to renew early specifically to get a new photo, but the cost is the same.

Wait times at DMV offices vary widely by location and time of day. Urban offices often have waits of one to three hours during business hours, while rural offices may be faster. Many states now offer online renewal for licenses that do not require a new photo, so check whether your situation qualifies before you go in person. If you do go to the DMV, arrive early in the morning or on a weekday, because evenings and Saturdays are busier.

Private photo studios and what they charge

Private photo studios that advertise "state ID photos" or "driver's license photos" know your state's requirements and can take your photo, review it against the rules, and retake it when ready if it does not pass. These studios typically charge between $10 and $25 per photo, depending on location and whether they offer digital copies or prints. Some studios offer a may provide that your photo will meet your state's requirements or they will retake it for free.

To find a studio near you, search "[your city] driver's license photo" or "[your city] state ID photo studio" in a search engine or map app. Call before you go and confirm that the location offers driver's license photos for your state — some studios specialize in passport photos or other types of ID and may not be set up for driver's licenses. Ask whether they can print the photo on the spot or if you need to pick it up later, and whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment.

Retail photo services at chains like Walmart and CVS

Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and some Target locations offer photo printing and passport photo services, and some locations also offer driver's license photos. The cost is usually lower than a private studio — often $5 to $15 — but not all locations offer this service, and staff may not be trained on your state's specific rules. Before you go, call the location and ask whether they do driver's license photos and whether they know your state's requirements.

If you use a retail location, bring a printed copy of your state's photo requirements with you. The staff can use it as a reference while taking your photo. Be prepared for the possibility that your photo may not meet requirements — retail locations do not always have the informed to catch problems before you leave, so you may need to go back or try a private studio instead.

Digital photos you provide yourself

Some states allow you to submit a digital photo when you renew your license online or by mail, rather than having a photo taken in person. If your state offers this option, the DMV will provide specific rules about file format, resolution, background, and lighting. You can take this photo yourself at home using a smartphone camera, or you can have a friend take it, as long as it meets the state's requirements.

If you choose to take your own photo, use natural light (near a window), wear plain clothing that contrasts with the background, and use a plain white or light-colored wall as your background. Take multiple shots from slightly different angles and distances, then compare them against your state's requirements before you submit. If your state rejects your photo, you will have to try again or visit a photo studio or DMV office in person.

What happens if your photo is rejected

If the DMV rejects your photo because it does not meet requirements, you will be notified by mail or email, depending on how you submitted it. The notice will explain what was wrong — for example, "background is not white" or "head size is too small" — and will tell you how to resubmit. You usually have 30 to 60 days to provide a new photo, though this varies by state.

If you rejected at a DMV office or photo studio, ask the staff what the problem was and whether they can retake the photo when ready. If you submitted a digital photo online, go to a photo studio or DMV office and have a new photo taken, then submit it according to the instructions in the rejection notice. Do not ignore a rejection notice — your license will not be issued or renewed until you provide an acceptable photo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear glasses in my driver's license photo?

It depends on your state. Some states allow glasses if there is no glare on the lenses and your eyes are clearly visible. Others ban glasses entirely. Check your state's DMV website for the exact rule, or ask the photo studio staff before they take your photo.

Can I smile in my driver's license photo?

Most states allow a natural smile, but a few require a neutral expression. Your state's DMV website will show sample photos that meet the requirement. When in doubt, use a neutral expression — it is safer than smiling if you are unsure of the rule.

How long does it take to get a driver's license photo taken?

At a private photo studio, the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. At a DMV office, you may wait 30 minutes to several hours depending on how busy the location is. At a retail chain, the wait is usually 10 to 20 minutes, but not all locations offer this service.

What if I do not like how my photo looks?

You can request a new photo when you renew your license, but you will have to pay the renewal fee. Some states allow early renewal specifically to get a new photo. If your current photo is less than a few years old, the DMV may not let you change it without renewing.

Can I use a photo from a professional photographer or my phone?

Only if your state allows you to submit a digital photo online and the photo meets the state's requirements for background, lighting, head size, and file format. Most states require the photo to be taken at a DMV office, photo studio, or retail location that follows state rules.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.