Wear something solid-colored and straightforward
Your driver's license photo will be printed on a document you carry for years, so the goal is to look like yourself on an ordinary day—not dressed for a special event or in something you'll never wear again. A solid-colored shirt or top works best. Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or anything with writing across the chest, because those distract from your face and can blur in the photo.
The background of your license photo is usually plain white or light gray, so colors that contrast with that background photograph better. Dark colors like navy, black, dark green, or burgundy show up clearly. Pastels and lighter colors work too, but very pale shades can wash you out under the bright photo lights. If you wear white or off-white, you may blend into the background.
Avoid anything shiny or reflective—metallic fabrics, sequins, or glossy materials can create glare and reflections that interfere with the camera. A plain cotton or matte-finish shirt is ideal.
Key Takeaways
- Wear a solid-colored top in a shade that contrasts with the background—dark colors photograph better than very light ones.
- Skip patterns, logos, writing, and shiny fabrics, because they distract from your face and can blur in the final image.
- Dress the way you normally do on a regular day, not for a special occasion, so the photo matches how people will recognize you.
- Avoid necklines that are too low or clothing that looks costume-like, because DMV standards require photos that look professional and neutral.
Necklines and fit matter more than you think
A crew neck, V-neck, or straightforward collar works well. Avoid very low necklines or anything that exposes a lot of skin, because DMV photo standards require a certain level of formality—your photo needs to look like an ID, not a social media picture. The photo is typically cropped to show your head, neck, and shoulders, so what you wear above the waist is what shows.
Make sure the shirt fits you properly. Something too loose can look sloppy in the photo; something too tight can look uncomfortable or unflattering. You want to look like yourself, not like you're wearing a costume or someone else's clothes.
What to avoid: Hats, hoods, and head coverings
Most DMV offices do not allow hats, baseball caps, hoods, or sunglasses in license photos. Religious head coverings are usually an exception—check your state's DMV website or call ahead if you wear one regularly. The rule exists because your face needs to be fully visible and unobstructed for identification purposes.
Avoid anything that shadows your face or hides your hairline. If you wear your hair in a way that covers part of your forehead or eyes, consider styling it differently for the photo, or ask the photographer if they can adjust the lighting to show your face clearly.
Glasses, contacts, and eye appearance
You can wear glasses in your license photo, but there are rules. Many states require that your eyes be clearly visible and that there be no glare or reflection off the lenses. If your glasses have thick frames or dark tinted lenses, the photographer may ask you to remove them. If you normally wear glasses, wearing them in your photo is actually a good idea—it makes the photo match how people see you day to day.
If you wear contacts, wear them on photo day. If you wear glasses at home but contacts when you go out, wear the contacts. The goal is for the photo to look like the real you that people interact with.
Avoid heavy eye makeup or anything that dramatically changes how your eyes look. A natural amount of makeup is fine, but smoky eyes, false lashes, or dramatic colors can make you look different in person than in the photo.
Hair, makeup, and grooming
Wear your hair the way you normally do. If you always wear it down, wear it down. If you always wear it pulled back, pull it back. The point is for the photo to match your everyday appearance. Avoid a brand-new haircut or color right before your appointment—give yourself a few days so you're used to how it looks.
Makeup should be minimal and natural-looking. The photo booth lights are bright and can wash you out, so a little foundation and a neutral lip color can help you look awake and healthy. Avoid heavy contouring, dramatic colors, or anything that looks like costume makeup. The photo needs to look like you, not like a different version of you.
Make sure you're well-rested and hydrated before your appointment. You'll photograph better if you don't look exhausted or puffy. If you have a big pimple or blemish, a small amount of concealer is fine—the goal is not to hide who you are, but to look like your best self on a normal day.
Timing: When to get your photo taken
Schedule your license photo appointment when you're not rushed or stressed. You'll look more relaxed and natural in the photo if you're not worried about being late or dealing with a long wait. If possible, go in the morning or early afternoon, when the lighting is usually best and you're less likely to be tired.
Avoid scheduling a photo appointment right after a long day at work, after exercise, or when you're sick or upset. You want to look like yourself on a good day, not on your worst day.
What happens at the photo booth
When you arrive at the DMV, the photographer will position you in front of the camera and give you instructions. They'll tell you to look straight ahead, keep a neutral expression, and not smile (most states require a neutral face for ID photos). The photo is usually taken from the shoulders up.
You'll typically get to see the photo before it's finalized. If you look terrible—your eyes are closed, you're making a weird face, or the lighting is really bad—ask if you can retake it. Many DMV offices allow one retake at no extra charge. If you're unhappy with the result, ask what the policy is before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smile in my driver's license photo?
Most states require a neutral expression—no smile, no frown. A few states allow a slight smile. Check your state's DMV website or ask the photographer when you arrive. Even if smiling is allowed, a neutral expression photographs better on an ID because it's easier to match to your face in person over time.
What if I wear religious clothing or a head covering?
Most states allow religious head coverings in license photos. Your face must still be fully visible and unobstructed. Call your local DMV office ahead of time to confirm their specific rules, or check your state's DMV website—the policy is usually listed under photo requirements.
Should I wear the same clothes I wore to my appointment?
No. Your license photo is a permanent ID, so wear something you'll wear regularly. If you show up to a police stop or airport in completely different clothes than your photo, it can cause confusion. Wear something neutral and straightforward that you actually own and wear on normal days.
Can I retake my license photo if I don't like how it looks?
Many DMV offices allow one free retake on the spot. If you're unhappy with the photo before you leave, ask the photographer about their retake policy. If you've already left and really hate the photo, some states allow you to request a new photo after a certain amount of time—usually one to five years—but you may have to pay a fee.
What if I've changed my appearance since my last license?
A significant change—a new haircut, glasses, facial hair, or weight loss—is normal and expected. Your new photo should reflect how you look now. The DMV doesn't require you to look exactly like your old photo; the point is for the current photo to match your current appearance so people can identify you.