Can I take my driver's license photo myself?
3 Answers
You can take your driver's license photo yourself, provided it meets the regulations. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Introduction: You need to provide photos and digital photos. Among the submitted photos, there is an archival photo, which is the driver's license photo. The submitted one-inch photo includes an archival photo that will be affixed to the driver's license, typically a one-inch white-background, bareheaded photo. 2. Driver's license photo requirements. The photo must be a recent (within 6 months) front-facing, bareheaded, color, single-person, half-length small one-inch photo of the driver's license applicant. The dimensions for the driver's license photo should be: 3.2cm*2.2cm in size, with the head length between 1.9cm to 2.2cm and head width between 1.4cm to 1.6cm, on a white background. The applicant should not wear uniform clothing in the photo, and the image should be clear and natural.
Can I take my driver's license photo myself? I've researched this. Generally, to maintain uniform standards, the DMV requires photos to be 35mm x 45mm with a white background, even lighting, and clear facial features without obstructions. If you take it yourself, it must fully meet these requirements, otherwise it'll be rejected on the spot. Most places allow uploading self-taken photos, but they must pass strict official app verification - I've seen people get rejected three times due to minor printing deviations. My advice is to have it taken at the DMV: their staff use calibrated equipment, it costs about 20 yuan, saves hassle, and avoids wasted trips. If you insist on DIY, first check local regulations - don't invite trouble by cutting corners.
When renewing my license, I tried taking the photo myself to save money and time. I set up a DSLR in front of a white wall at home, adjusting lighting and angles to take multiple shots before selecting the best one to print. However, at the DMV, they said the background wasn't pure white enough and my chin measurement was slightly off—it got rejected. I had to retake it, wasting printing fees and half a day. Since then, I always recommend going to the on-site service. The staff are experienced and get it done in seconds. DIY photos are too risky—strict equipment requirements and tricky lighting control often lead to wasted effort. Worse, an invalid photo can delay the renewal process, causing unnecessary hassle.
