Is it acceptable for the driver's license photo not to show ears?
3 Answers
Ears must be visible. The photo on the driver's license must be a straight-on, bareheaded, color, single-person half-length ID photo taken within 6 months before applying for a motor vehicle driver's license. The background should be white, and red clothing is not allowed. Women cannot wear earrings, and photos with shawls or draped hair are not permitted. Men's hair should not be too long. The headshot must be clear, with rich layers and a natural expression. Below is relevant information about driver's licenses: 1. The meaning of a driver's license: A driver's license is a certificate that must be applied for by motor vehicle drivers under the laws of the People's Republic of China. 2. The content recorded on a driver's license: A motor vehicle driver's license records the holder's ID number, name, gender, date of birth, long-term address, nationality, permitted (learning) vehicle type code, initial license issuance date, validity period, and management records, along with the issuing authority's seal, file number, and the holder's photo.
Driver's license photos require the entire face, including ears, to be visible. As someone who has obtained a driver's license, I know the traffic authorities' standards emphasize clear identification. If the photo does not show the ears, it will be rejected during review, requiring a retake, as ears are a key part of facial contours and help distinguish between people with similar appearances. I usually advise friends not to let hair cover the ear contours when taking photos and to choose a well-lit, front-facing position. This not only saves time but also avoids multiple trips to the DMV. Considering safety comes first while driving, the strictness of ID photos is a small detail that protects everyone's rights. Remember, showing ears in the photo is a basic requirement—don’t let it delay your licensing process.
After driving for over a decade, I've learned some tricks about taking photos. Your driver's license photo must show your ears, otherwise it won't pass inspection and could cause trouble. I've seen friends fail the review because their hair covered their ears, wasting a whole trip. My advice is to style your hair properly to reveal your ears and practice with your phone's front camera a few times to find the right angle. Sometimes the lighting at DMV photo spots isn't great, so bring a small mirror to adjust. Showing your ears isn't just a formality—it's about document security and preventing fraud. I always remind new drivers to prepare their photos in advance to avoid these minor issues affecting their test-taking mood.
