Can You Wear Jewelry In Driver’s License

FAQs

Q: Can I wear jewelry when taking a driver’s license photo?

A: Most U.S. states require that you remove jewelry before taking a driver’s license photo. Items such as necklaces and piercings need to be removed so that they are not visible in the photo or they may obscure your facial features. Additionally, extremely large or bulky jewelry might distract the viewer from seeing your likeness clearly. Only small, everyday pieces of jewelry like stud earrings will be allowed. Contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for specific regulations in regards to wearing jewelry on driver’s licenses photos.

Examples

No, you cannot wear jewelry in a driver’s license photo. Even small and subtle pieces of jewelry such as stud earrings or a tiny necklace should not be worn when taking your driver’s license photo. Anything that could be considered distracting should not be worn, as the purpose of the photo is to accurately identify you.

Examples of Unacceptable Jewelry:

• Bright/large necklaces
• Statement/costume-style earrings
• Hoop earrings
• Bracelets
• Rings (other than wedding rings)
• Facial jewelry including nose rings and facial piercings
• Visible tattoos



All hairpieces must also be removed before taking the picture for your license. Hair accessories such as clips or headbands should also not be worn. It is best to come with natural makeup and a clean, fresh face for your driver’s license photo.

Styling Tips

When selecting jewelry for a driver’s license photo, your best bet is to pick pieces that won’t distract from your face. You want all eyes to be on you and not on an awkward or overpowering accessory. Go with classic shapes such as pearls, round stones, and simple gold or silver studs. These timeless basics won’t date your picture if it’s in circulation for many years. Colors also make a difference—limit yourself to a clear/white stone or go with no color at all. Stick with just one statement piece of jewelry; the more restrained you are in this area, the better results you’ll get!

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Also, keep in mind that delicate chains should not be worn as they could appear distorted in a picture. Most importantly, your makeup should be kept to a minimum and no accessories should hang down over your face—headbands, necklaces or even earrings hanging too low create an unflattering image when photographed. As long as you keep these things in mind when styling for the camera and feel comfortable with what you are wearing, then perfect head shot pictures will follow!

Expert Advice

No, according to the law of most countries, you are not allowed to wear jewelry in your driver’s license photo. Most states have strict guidelines for their identification photos, and wearing jewelry could ultimately distort the photo or make it hard to distinguish different facial features. It’s best to stick to minimal makeup and hairstyle and make sure that your face is fully visible in the photo. Additionally, all piercings must be removed before taking a driver’s license photo since they can obscure important details of the face.

Case Studies

Case 1: Ryan was excited to take his driver’s license photo but realized that he had forgotten to take off the necklace he was wearing. He tried to cover it as best he could and hoped that it wouldn’t be a problem. Unfortunately, when the photo came back from the DMV, it contained a note stating that face coverings of any kind were not allowed in the photos and that Ryan would have to retake the photo without any jewelry on.

Case 2: Kristin had her ears pierced but wanted to make sure she still looked professional for her driver’s license photo. She chose simple stud earrings that blended in with her hairstyle and opted for softer colors like gold or silver so they wouldn’t be too noticeable in her photo. Luckily, when she got her updated driver’s license, there were no notes or issues regarding the jewelry she decided to wear.

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Discussion

Have you ever worn jewelry when having your driver’s license photo taken? Perhaps a favorite necklace or pair of earrings? Do you find that wearing jewelry in your driver’s license photo helps to make the picture more personal and true-to-life, or do you prefer to go without any adornments for your ID? Share your thoughts on whether or not it is appropriate to wear jewelry when taking a driver’s license photo, and let us know how it has worked out for you. We’d love to hear your experiences.