Can I change the photo on the day I get my driver's license?
4 Answers
You can change the photo on your driver's license, but the place to change the motor vehicle photo and the place to receive the motor vehicle driver's license are not the same. To change the motor vehicle driver's license photo, you need to go to the vehicle management office or the traffic management department of the public security organ. When changing, you should report that the motor vehicle driver's license is lost. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Introduction: Within one year, it is the probation period of the motor vehicle driver's license. During the probation period, you are not allowed to drive alone on the highway. If you need to drive on the highway, there must be a driver with more than three years of driving experience accompanying you in the co-pilot seat. 2. Note: During the probation period. You cannot be deducted 92 points at one time, otherwise the probation period will be extended.
My friend wanted to change the photo on their driver's license right after getting it, thinking the previously submitted one wasn't flattering. They asked the DMV, but the staff directly said it wasn't possible because the photo had already been bound to the system during the license production process and couldn't be changed temporarily. It's recommended to first check the local replacement process online. Generally, you need to bring a new photo, ID card, and the old license, fill out an application form for the replacement procedure, and might have to wait a few days for processing. I tried it once, and the photo specifications are very strict—it must be a two-inch bareheaded photo with a white background. Don't just get it taken at any photo studio. Changing a photo might seem like a small matter, but it actually affects identity verification. If it doesn't comply with the rules, you could run into trouble if stopped while driving.
Just got my driver's license and super excited to collect it, but the photo was taken too casually and I wanted to replace it with a handsome one immediately. The uncle at the counter smiled and shook his head, saying it couldn't be done today and I'd need to make another appointment to go to the licensing center. A bit disappointed but understandable—the system had already locked the original information, and making last-minute changes would be too risky. My advice is to prepare several qualified photos in advance next time to save the hassle. On second thought, the photo isn't a big deal; safe driving is what really matters. I later focused on improving my driving skills—no one's going to stare at that tiny photo anyway.
As an ordinary person who frequently deals with automotive-related matters, I understand that there is a standard procedure for replacing driver's license photos. Typically, you can't change the photo immediately after receiving the license on the same day because the photo is fixed during the pre-approval stage. To prevent fraud, you need to follow the formal application process. My suggestion is to first enjoy the excitement of getting your driver's license and not get distracted by the photo. If you need to change it later, just follow the official website's steps, prepare the required documents and fees, and you'll get it done. There's no need to rush.
