RICHMOND, Va. — Do you hate your photo on your driver’s license or state ID? Is it because strict state rules would not let you smile while taking the picture? If so, here is some good news that should make you happy. You can now get your photo retaken with a smile on your face.
“We heard loud and clear from customers that they prefer posing with smiles,” DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb said.
Six years ago, the DMV adopted a neutral expression policy in preparation for the potential future use of image verification software. Fortunately now for Virginians, technology has advanced to allow you to now smile in the photos.
“At the time, this type of identity theft deterrent software worked best when comparing similar images,” an agency spokesperson explained. “When getting their photos taken for licenses or ID cards, customers were given the opportunity to smile slightly without showing teeth. Since then, the technology has advanced so that neutral expressions are no longer necessary.”
If you’d like a new driver’s license photo, take your unexpired driver’s license or ID card to any DMV customer service center or DMV 2 Go mobile office, and submit a completed application. A replacement driver’s license will cost you $20 and a replacement ID card will cost $10. Click here for more information.
