Is the driver's license photo taken on the spot?
3 Answers
Due to differences in procedures among driving schools in various regions, the photos used for driver's licenses may also vary. In some places, the driver's license photo will use the 1-inch photo submitted during registration, while in others, applicants bring their own photos to make the driver's license after passing the subject four exam, or the photo is taken on the spot during production. Requirements for driver's license photos: must be a recent (within the last six months) color frontal photo with a white background, no hat, no white clothing or uniforms, sized one inch, those with corrected vision must wear glasses, the head portion should occupy about two-thirds of the photo length, and the photo must be clear and recognizable.
I remember when I took my driver's license test last year, the DMV took the photo directly in the service hall. The staff asked me to sit straight and remove my glasses, then with a click, the photo was printed on the license—the whole process was super fast, taking just a few minutes. Some places allow you to bring your own photo, but it must be a 35×45 mm blue-background ID photo, so you'd need to get it taken at a photo studio in advance. Personally, I think taking the photo on-site is more convenient, as you don't have to worry about the photo being non-compliant or the wrong size. There was a mirror next to the photo area for grooming, and although I waited in line for about ten minutes, the efficiency was good. The photo requirements include neat hair and no hats, and old photos can't be used to prevent fraud. Overall, most DMVs now take photos on-site, saving time and effort. The photo on the license is important and lasts for years, so it's best not to take it lightly.
I've been driving for nearly 30 years. In the early days, you had to go to a photo studio to get your driver's license photo printed and bring it to the DMV yourself. Sometimes, waiting for the photos to be developed would waste time. Nowadays, after the DMV upgrades, they mostly take digital photos on-site with a unified pure blue or white background. The flash goes off, and the photo is taken and printed directly onto the document. Last time, I helped a neighbor with their license, and their on-site photo turned out well with a proper sitting posture. Some smaller cities might still allow you to bring your own photo, but it must be a recent, unedited standard size of 35×45 mm. On-site photography is much more convenient, with advanced equipment ensuring clear photos. If you bring your own and it turns out blurry, you might have to make an extra trip. Since the photo is used for identity verification and security is crucial, it's recommended to follow the on-site arrangements rather than trying to save time with a self-taken photo.
