Driver's License Photo Requirements
US DMV rules for all 50 states, international DL photo specs, and the one case where you DO submit your own photo: the International Driving Permit (IDP).
International Driving Permit
AAA requires two 2×2 inch photos with a white background. Same spec as a US passport photo.
Exports at 600×600 px — exactly what AAA needs
US Driver's License Photo Requirements (All 50 States)
All US states follow the AAMVA Driver's License and Identification Card Design Standard. These rules apply regardless of which state you're in.
Required by All States
Not Allowed (All States)
Note
Driver's License Photo Rules by State
All US states use a blue background applied digitally by the DMV. Background color is not something you control. Notable differences are in glasses policy and expression rules.
| State | Background | Glasses |
|---|---|---|
| California | Blue | ✗ No |
| Texas | Blue | ✗ No |
| Florida | Blue | ✗ No |
| New York | Blue | ✗ No |
| Pennsylvania | Blue | ✗ No |
| Illinois | Blue/grey | ✗ No |
| Ohio | Blue | ✗ No |
| Georgia | Blue | ✗ No |
| Michigan | Blue | ✗ No |
| North Carolina | Blue | ✗ No |
| New Jersey | Blue | ✗ No |
| Virginia | Blue | ✗ No |
| Washington | Blue/grey | ✗ No |
| Arizona | Blue | ✗ No |
| Massachusetts | Blue | ✗ No |
| Tennessee | Blue | ✗ No |
| Indiana | Blue | ✗ No |
| Missouri | Blue | ✗ No |
| Maryland | Blue | ✗ No |
| Wisconsin | Blue | ✗ No |
Background colors and rules verified against state DMV websites. Always confirm current requirements at your local DMV before your appointment.
International Driving Permit (IDP) Photo Requirements
This is the one driving-related document where you submit your own photo. An IDP lets you drive in 150+ countries using your US license as the primary document.
IDP Photo Specifications (AAA)
How to Get an IDP
1. Apply through AAA (American Automobile Association) or AATA
2. Submit your completed application form
3. Attach two 2×2 inch passport-style photos
4. Pay the fee (~$20) and provide a copy of your driver's license
5. Valid for 1 year from issuance
Create IDP-compliant photos instantly:
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2×2 in · White background · 600×600 px · Exactly what AAA needs
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Tip
International Driver's License Photo Requirements by Country
Most countries photograph you at their licensing office, similar to the US. The ones that require a submitted photo generally use the same 35×45mm biometric standard as European passports.
| Country | Photo Size | Background | Submit Photo? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇩🇪 Germany | 35×45mm | White or light grey | ✓ Yes |
| 🇫🇷 France | 35×45mm | White or light grey | ✓ Yes |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | 35×45mm | Light grey | ✓ Yes |
| 🇨🇦 Canada (ON/BC) | 35×45mm | White | ✗ At office |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 35×45mm | White or off-white | ✗ At office |
| 🇳🇿 New Zealand | 40×50mm | White | ✗ At office |
| 🇮🇳 India | 35×45mm | White | ✓ Yes |
| 🇿🇦 South Africa | 35×45mm | White | ✓ Yes |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | 30×40mm | White | ✓ Yes |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | 35×45mm | White | ✗ At office |
Driver's License Photo vs. Passport Photo
The rules look similar but there are important differences — especially on background color and smiling.
| Feature | Driver's License (US) | US Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Who takes the photo | DMV photographer | You (self-taken) |
| Background color | Blue (set by DMV) | White only |
| Photo size | Set by DMV system | 2×2 in (51×51mm) |
| Glasses allowed | No (most states) | No |
| Expression | Neutral or slight smile | Neutral only |
| Smiling allowed | Slight smile OK | No smiling |
| Head covering | Religious exceptions only | Religious exceptions only |
| Photo age limit | New photo each renewal | Within 6 months |
How to Get a Great Driver's License Photo at the DMV
You can't retake a bad DMV photo on the spot in most states. Prepare before your appointment.
Best Clothing Colors
Avoid Wearing
Day-Of Checklist
Warning
REAL ID Photo Requirements
REAL ID is a federal security standard for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards, required for domestic flights and federal building access. The photo requirements are identical to a standard driver's license — the DMV takes the photo at the office.
What's Different About REAL ID
REAL ID Documents Checklist
Driver's License Photo FAQ
Can I submit my own photo for a US driver's license?
No. All 50 US states take your driver's license photo at the DMV office when you apply or renew. You cannot submit your own photo for a standard US state driver's license. The DMV will photograph you using their digital camera system.
What are the driver's license photo requirements in the US?
All US states follow AAMVA (American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators) guidelines: neutral facial expression, eyes fully open, looking directly at the camera, no glasses (most states), no hats or head coverings (religious exceptions apply), no visible headphones, and a blue or grey background applied by the DMV.
What background color is used for US driver's license photos?
Most US state DMVs use a blue background for driver's license photos. Some states use blue-grey or a gradient blue. The DMV sets the background automatically — you do not need to worry about background color for your US license photo.
Can I wear glasses in my driver's license photo?
Most US states no longer allow glasses in driver's license photos as of 2016 updates. Even prescription glasses may be prohibited to reduce glare and reflection. Internationally, the same rule generally applies — glasses are not permitted for biometric documents in Germany, France, Schengen countries, and the UK.
What size is an International Driving Permit (IDP) photo?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) requires a 2×2 inch (51×51mm) photo with a white background — the same size as a US passport photo. AAA (which issues IDPs in the US) requires two recent 2×2 inch photos with a plain white background, neutral expression, and no glasses.
What is REAL ID and what are the photo requirements?
REAL ID is a federal standard for state-issued IDs used to board flights and access federal facilities. REAL ID driver's licenses have the same photo requirements as standard licenses — photo taken at the DMV, blue background, neutral expression, no glasses. You don't need a special photo; you just need to bring the required identity documents when you visit the DMV.
What should I wear for my DMV driver's license photo?
Wear solid dark or medium-toned clothing that contrasts with the blue DMV background. Avoid white or very light blue (blends with background). Avoid busy patterns. Avoid high necklines or turtlenecks that obscure your neck. Smart casual works well — a collared shirt or blouse photographs clearly.
Can I smile in my driver's license photo?
A natural, slight smile is allowed at most US DMVs — unlike passport photos where a neutral expression is strictly required. However, exaggerated smiling (teeth showing widely) may be rejected because it changes facial geometry used in biometric matching. A relaxed, natural expression with a slight smile is fine.
What countries require you to submit your own driver's license photo?
Countries where you submit your own photo include Germany, France, India, South Africa, Brazil, and the UK (for postal renewal of provisional licences). Most require a 35×45mm biometric photo. Countries that photograph you at the office include the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico.
What is the difference between a driver's license photo and a passport photo?
Key differences: (1) Background — passport photos use white; DL photos use blue (US) or country-specific. (2) Submission — US DL photos are taken at the DMV; passport photos you take yourself. (3) Size — US passport photos are 2×2 inches; DL photos are set by the agency. (4) Expression — DL photos often allow a slight smile; passport photos require neutral expression.
Related Photo Guides
Requirements sourced from AAMVA Driver's License and Identification Card Design Standard, AAA IDP guidelines, and individual state DMV websites. Verified May 2026.