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7 Tips for Taking a Great Driver’s License Picture

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Let’s be honest — who really likes their driver’s license picture? It turns out that there are some practical ways to minimize the chance that your picture looks more like a mug shot than a semi-decent ID photo. Keep these seven tips in mind the next time you head to the Department of Motor Vehicles to renew your license.


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Photo: Pixabay

1. Avoid smiling too much and keep your eyes wide open

It’s likely that the DMV representative taking your picture will ask you not to smile if the photo will be used on a driver’s license or passport. Wear a friendly expression, so you don’t look grumpy but you avoid having a huge smile in the picture. You’ll also want to make sure your eyes are wide open right before and during the time the picture is being taken.

2. Don’t wear white or black

If you have a pale complexion, avoid wearing white. If you have a dark one, steer clear of black. Wearing any color close to your natural skin tone can result in a washed-out appearance in the picture.

3. Wear minimal makeup

While looking nice in your license picture is of some importance, there’s no need to go over-the-top with cosmetics. In short, keep the makeup minimal if you choose to wear some for the photo.

Photo: Pixabay

4. Be smart about eyewear

Wear glasses in your picture, if you’re legally required to wear them when you’re driving. Though, you can also wear contacts; just make sure they’re transparent ones instead of colored ones, so your eye color in the picture will match what’s written on the driver’s license.

5. Choose muted clothing colors over bold ones

For many people, the most flattering shades of attire will be soft colors like green, pink, or blue. If you gravitate toward wearing vibrant neon shades or bold patterns, leave those clothes in your closet the day you go to the DMV.

6. Bring along a helpful tool when you’re sick

If you have allergies or a cold, bring some eyedrops with you to the DMV. This will help minimize the likelihood of having bloodshot eyes in the photo.

7. Keep your hairstyle neat

Opt for one of your go-to hairstyles that you’d likely be wearing if you ever get pulled over by a cop. And make sure to brush any fringe or bangs away from your eyes so they’re visible in the picture.


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News Source: DrivingTests.org