Let's face it, nobody loves their driver's license photo. But unlike those old passport pictures you can hide away, your driver's license is an everyday essential. The key to a decent DMV photo? Preparation. Forget winging it and embrace these tips to ensure your next ID picture is one you can actually live with.
Dress to Impress (Yourself!)
The good news is, there's no strict dress code for your driver's license photo. Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable, keeping in mind the light-colored backdrop. Colors that complement your skin tone are ideal. However, a few guidelines can help you avoid common pitfalls:
- Avoid white: It will blend seamlessly into the background, leaving you looking like a floating head.
- Steer clear of black (if you're pale): It can wash you out and accentuate any shadows.
- Say no to high necklines: Turtlenecks or buttoned-up collars can make your neck appear shorter or thicker.
- Opt for solid colors: Avoid busy patterns, logos, or distracting graphics.
Ultimately, the best color is the one that makes you feel good! Darker shades of blue, green, or burgundy are generally safe and flattering choices.
Makeup: Enhance, Don't Transform
Makeup can be a powerful tool, but the goal for your driver's license photo is enhancement, not a complete makeover. DMV lighting isn't exactly studio-quality, so a natural look is best:
- Foundation is key: Match your foundation perfectly to your skin tone, or go one shade darker to avoid looking washed out.
- Matte is your friend: Shimmers, glosses, and highlighters can reflect the harsh camera flash, leading to unflattering results. Stick to matte or satin-finish products.
- Conceal strategically: Use a slightly darker concealer to effectively cover dark circles. Sheer formulas may not provide enough coverage under bright lights.
- Add a touch of blush: A little blush on the cheeks will bring life and color to your face.
- Go easy on the drama: Avoid heavy contouring, smokey eyes, false eyelashes, and overdrawn lip liner. These can alter your appearance significantly and may cause issues later on.
The aim is a polished, “no-makeup makeup” look that highlights your best features without drastically changing them. Keep it simple, keep it natural, and skip the sparkles.
Hair Today, Great Photo Tomorrow
Bad hair days happen, but a little pre-photo prep can make a world of difference. Tame your tresses with these simple tips:
- Style it down: If wearing your hair down, part it evenly on both sides to frame your face. Consider braiding it beforehand to create soft waves.
- Bring a brush: Keep a hairbrush handy for last-minute touch-ups before the photo is taken.
- Updos for control: If frizz is a concern, opt for a sleek bun or ponytail.
- Smooth and shine: Use a small amount of hair oil to tame flyaways and add a healthy-looking sheen.
- Bangs be gone: Make sure your bangs aren't obscuring your eyes. Use a hairpin to keep them in place if necessary.
Smile! (But Know Your State's Rules)
You don't want to look like you've just been pulled over! Smiling is generally allowed, but the degree of smile varies by state. Some states, like Colorado, are perfectly fine with a toothy grin, while others prefer a closed-mouth smile.
Since you'll likely only get one shot at the DMV, practice your smile beforehand! Take some selfies or have a friend snap photos of you with different expressions to see what looks most natural and flattering. Rehearse your winning smile in the mirror so you can confidently recreate it on picture day.
If your state allows you to submit a photo taken at home, you're in luck! You can use AiPassportPhoto's online editor to get it just right. Simply upload your photo and let our experts ensure it meets all the requirements. For mobile users, AiPassportPhoto is available for iOS and Android. Select the "Photo 2x2 inches" option and add a note indicating it's for a driver's license.
FAQ
Can you take your own driver's license photo?
It depends on your state! Some allow you to submit a photo taken at home, while others require you to have it taken at the DMV. Check your local regulations before taking a photo yourself. If allowed, use AiPassportPhoto's photo editor to ensure it meets all the requirements. AiPassportPhoto is available for iOS and Android. Be sure to read articles like this one for tips on taking a good license photo.
Can you wear earrings in driver's license photos?
Yes, earrings and other jewelry are generally allowed, as long as they aren't too large or distracting. Avoid oversized hoops or overly sparkly pieces.
Can you wear glasses in your driver's license picture?
If you need prescription glasses to drive, you should wear them in your license photo. Otherwise, it's your choice. Just make sure the frames don't cover your eyes or cast shadows, the lenses aren't tinted, and there's no glare.
Can you show teeth in driver's license photos?
Smiling is typically allowed, but whether you can show your teeth depends on your state's regulations. Some states are fine with a toothy smile, while others prefer a closed-mouth smile.
What color to wear for a driver's license photo?
Choose a color that complements your skin tone and doesn't blend in with the background. Avoid white and opt for a solid, darker color.
Can I wear a headband in my driver's license photo?
Head coverings, including headbands, are generally not allowed, unless they are worn for medical or religious reasons.