Can I bring my own photo for driver's license renewal?

[StDaniela]

For license renewal, you can bring your own photo and medical examination report. If you're concerned about the photo not meeting requirements, you can have it taken directly at the traffic police department's service hall to avoid delays. The photo must be a recent one-inch color photo with a white background and no hat. If the photo doesn't meet standards, you'll need to retake a qualified one. Motor vehicle driver's license renewal can be processed through the mobile app "Traffic Management 12123" or through the vehicle management department or public security authorities. About license renewal: Processing location: Driver's license renewal can be processed at the vehicle management office where the license was originally issued or at other vehicle management offices. Article 57 of "Traffic Regulations Penalty Rules": Motor vehicle drivers should apply for license renewal at the vehicle management office where the license was issued or at other vehicle management offices within 90 days before the expiration of their current driver's license. When applying, they must fill out an application form and submit the following documents: 1. The driver's identity proof 2. The current driver's license 3. A medical condition certificate issued by a county-level or military regimental-level medical institution For applications involving specially modified vehicles for disabled persons, a medical condition certificate issued by a specialized medical institution designated by provincial health authorities must be submitted. Relevant matters for license renewal upon expiration: You can apply for license renewal within 90 days before your license expires. Applications can be made at local vehicle management offices or online. When renewing, after completing the application form as needed, you must bring your ID card, driver's license, medical examination report, and other relevant materials. All traffic violation records must be cleared before renewal, otherwise the application won't be accepted. After renewal, the original license becomes invalid and cannot be used. You must properly keep the driver's information on the license and not discard it carelessly to avoid information leakage, which could cause issues in using the driver's license. License renewal can be processed up to 90 days in advance. If your license has expired, traffic police may impose fines (without deducting points) if they find out. There's also a latest deadline for renewal: if expired for less than one year, you can renew normally; if expired between one to three years, the license will be canceled but can be regained by passing the subject one exam; if expired over three years, the license will be canceled.

[David]

I remember when I last renewed my driver's license, I planned to bring a photo I took myself to the DMV, thinking it would save time and money. However, the staff informed me that personal photos weren’t allowed—I had to take the photo on-site or at a designated photo booth. The reason was to ensure the photo met standard requirements, such as a white background, front-facing, and bareheaded, to prevent fraud or unclear images that could affect driving safety. They had self-service equipment there, so I stood in front of it, took the photo, and got it done in just a few minutes for 20 yuan. If you bring a non-compliant photo, you’ll have to redo the process, which only causes delays. So, I recommend checking local policies in advance or just taking the photo on-site to ensure it’s done right the first time. Nowadays, DMV services have improved, making the license renewal process more efficient and eliminating long queues. In short, bringing your own photo doesn’t work—it’s best to follow the rules for a hassle-free experience.