Can I wear colored contact lenses for my driver's license photo?
2 Answers
Wearing colored contact lenses is not allowed for driver's license photos, nor during the medical examination. Below are the relevant requirements: 1. Driver's license photo specifications: Colored lenses are prohibited as they may cause glare or obstruct the eyes, rendering the photo invalid and requiring a retake. The photo must be taken within the last 6 months, with clear facial features and high recognizability. Heavy makeup or exaggerated accessories that significantly alter one's appearance are not permitted. 2. Hair requirements: Hair must be of natural colors like black or brown—no vibrant colors or eccentric hairstyles. Facial features must remain unobstructed by hair; otherwise, a retake will be necessary.
When taking a driver's license photo, I personally think it's best not to wear colored contact lenses. Since a driver's license is an official document, it needs to accurately reflect your facial features for identification and anti-counterfeiting purposes. Official regulations require the photo to be bareheaded with ears exposed, and glasses or colored contacts may be considered as altering your natural appearance. For example, colored contacts can make your eye color appear brighter or darker, deviating from your true look. I've seen a friend get rejected for wearing colored contacts in their photo, forcing them to queue up again for a retake, wasting time and money. Even worse, if your license is found to not match your appearance during use, it could raise suspicions or lead to fines. So, to save hassle and ensure safety, I recommend removing colored contacts before the photo shoot and keeping your appearance simple and natural. This not only avoids minor issues but also ensures your document passes in one go, preventing any impact on your daily travels.
