U.S. STATE · STATE ID CARD
District of Columbia State Identification Card Photo Requirements
Find out whether you need to make a photo for a state ID card, where the photo is taken, and what is known about renewing or replacing the card remotely.
Sources reviewed: October 18, 2026
Should you make a photo?
Do not prepare your own photo unless the agency or your transaction instructions specifically ask for one.
This page covers a state identification card. It does not automatically apply to driver licenses, learner permits, or every exception.
Issuing agency: DC Department of Motor Vehicles
Where the photo is taken
DC DMV lists a photograph as a step when you bring your completed application to a DC DMV service center, and says you must take a new photograph after every driver license, knowledge test, or identification card transaction.
Online or mail renewal and replacement
Eligible REAL ID or Limited Purpose ID card holders may renew online, but not twice in a row, and some holders receive a notice allowing mail renewal. DC DMV's renewal page does not say how the photo is handled for online or mail renewal; it does not ask for an applicant-supplied photo.
Photo law and rules
A photo-specific statute or rule for this credential has not yet been summarized on this page.
Official sources
Use the interactive checker
Check this credentialView the District of Columbia driver-license requirement page