Can I use my own photo for a driver's license?
2 Answers
You can use your own photo, but it is not recommended. Here is relevant information: After passing the test: First, after passing the driver's license test, when applying for the license, the licensing office will usually take your photo. There is a somewhat cumbersome process where the photo needs to be reviewed and approved through an official platform to generate a photo receipt. If you need to take your own photo, the staff or driving school instructor will inform you. If they don't mention it, just follow the standard procedure. Receiving the license: When collecting your driver's license, you do not need to bring a passport photo because the photo for the license was already submitted when you registered at the driving school. There is no need to submit another photo for the license; you only need to participate in the license collection oath ceremony. For the photo submitted during driving school registration, you can bring your own, but it must have an electronic version since the photo needs to be uploaded online. Normally, the photo is taken on-site when registering at the driving school, but specific requirements may vary depending on the driving school.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have plenty of experience renewing my driver's license. Every time I go to the DMV, I can't take my own photo—it has to be taken at a designated spot. Official requirements specify that the photo must be uniform in size, with a pure white background, facing forward without a hat or glasses, to prevent identity fraud or misuse. If you take it yourself with a phone, poor lighting can make it blurry, and incorrect dimensions might cause the system to fail recognition. Last year, my neighbor tried using a travel selfie for a new license and got rejected—it took two tries to get it right. Nowadays, DMVs have professional machines that upload and verify photos instantly, making it convenient and secure. Don't skip this step—just book an appointment and get it done on-site to save time and avoid disputes.