# 🇺🇸US Driver's License Photo

Country: United States

Document: Driver's License

Page language: en

Page: [🇺🇸US Driver's License Photo](https://onedollarpassportphoto.com/us/driving/)

Requirements last verified: 2026-06-25

Applies to: Understanding the DMV photo standard and preparing before you have your photo taken at the counter.

Does not apply to: Supplying your own photo. US DMVs photograph you on site; outside photos (print or upload) are not accepted for a driver's license.

The issuing office takes the photo in person. Applicants cannot supply their own photo for this document.

## Photo specifications

These are document-specific values from the page data. Printed and digital requirements may apply to different application routes; consult the guide and sources below.

| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Photo dimensions | 2 × 2 in |
| Photo paper | Glossy or matte |
| Digital pixel dimensions | 600 × 600 px (see guide/source for applicability and minimum vs exact sizing) |
| Digital file format | JPEG |
| Maximum digital file size | 240 KB |
| Photo age | Taken within 6 months |

## Appearance and composition

- Background: Plain white or light blue background (varies by state)
- Head size: Head should fill 50-70% of frame
- Glasses: Permitted; check the source for restrictions.
- Even lighting; no harsh shadows.
- Filters, beauty modes and retouching are forbidden.
- Color photo.
- Head coverings are permitted for religious reasons; check the source for conditions.
- Uniforms are restricted; check the source for exceptions.
- No earphones or wireless devices.

## What to expect at your appointment

Understanding the DMV photo standard and preparing before you have your photo taken at the counter.

[Read the official requirements](https://www.usa.gov/replace-drivers-license)

## How to prepare

Sort these before your appointment and the photo passes first time.

-   Eyes closed or looking away — Both eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera for facial recognition systems.
-   Head tilted — Face must be straight and forward-facing. Even slight tilts cause rejection.
-   Poor lighting — Photo must have even lighting without harsh shadows. Avoid direct sunlight or single overhead lights.
-   Wearing hat or headwear — No hats, caps, or beanies allowed. Religious head coverings require documentation.
-   Blurry or low resolution — Photo must be sharp and in focus. Hold camera steady or use a tripod.
-   Glasses with glare (in states that allow glasses) — If your state allows glasses, lenses must have no reflections or glare.
-   Too much makeup or face paint — Keep makeup natural. Heavy makeup that alters your appearance may be rejected.
-   Hair covering face — Hair must not cover your eyes, eyebrows, or significant portions of your face.

## Common rejection reasons

- Eyes closed or looking away — Both eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera for facial recognition systems.

- Head tilted — Face must be straight and forward-facing. Even slight tilts cause rejection.

- Poor lighting — Photo must have even lighting without harsh shadows. Avoid direct sunlight or single overhead lights.

- Wearing hat or headwear — No hats, caps, or beanies allowed. Religious head coverings require documentation.

- Blurry or low resolution — Photo must be sharp and in focus. Hold camera steady or use a tripod.

- Glasses with glare (in states that allow glasses) — If your state allows glasses, lenses must have no reflections or glare.

- Too much makeup or face paint — Keep makeup natural. Heavy makeup that alters your appearance may be rejected.

- Hair covering face — Hair must not cover your eyes, eyebrows, or significant portions of your face.

## Source for the document requirements

[Source linked by the document page](https://www.usa.gov/replace-drivers-license)

The complete guide below includes additional sources and application-specific qualifications when available.