Georgia DDS Permit Photo Rules: Expression, Head Coverings and REAL ID

Yes, you take a photo for your learner's permit in Georgia. The photo is captured digitally at the DDS center during your permit application visit.

When does Georgia DDS take your permit photo and what are the rules?

DDS captures your photo at the Customer Service Center during your visit.

• You may not submit your own photo.
• DDS issues an Interim (temporary) document at the center for immediate use - it includes your photo and signature and is printed on secure paper.
• The permanent card is mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within the Interim's 45-day validity window.
• Destroy the Interim once the plastic card arrives.

Official Photo Guidelines and Restrictions

Georgia issues photos for permits and licenses that meet REAL ID standards when the applicant applies for a REAL ID credential; failing photo standards can delay issuance.

• Facial Expression: Maintain a neutral expression. No smiling, frowning, or squinting.
• Glasses: Prescription glasses are usually allowed, but the clerk may ask you to remove them if there is glare. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are prohibited.
• Head Coverings: Hats, caps, and non-religious headwear are not allowed. Religious head coverings are permitted only with proper documentation submitted in advance.
• Clothing: Do not wear white tops, as they blend with the light background. Avoid uniforms or costumes.

Can you ask Georgia DDS to take your permit photo in private?

Yes. Georgia DDS says it can arrange for a photograph to be taken in private at DDS Headquarters when a customer refuses to be photographed by an employee in the normal setting. Contact DDS before the visit if you need this arrangement.

What form is needed for a religious head covering in a Georgia DDS photo?

Georgia DDS requires a sworn statement on Form DDS-352 confirming that the religious covering is worn daily. DDS must approve the form, and the face still needs to remain identifiable in the photograph.

What proof is needed for a medical face or head covering in a Georgia permit photo?

Other than eyewear, DDS requires a signed doctor's statement confirming that the covering or item is needed daily for medical reasons.

Can You Retake the Permit Photo?

DDS may retake a photo when the image does not meet identification or photo-quality standards, including problems such as blur, closed eyes, obstruction, or a face shadow. A retake is different from asking for another photo only because you dislike your appearance.

If the image is compliant and you simply want a different photo later, a replacement transaction may be required.

How the Photo Appears on Your Permit

Your Georgia DDS permit photo appears on the temporary paper permit issued the same day. The permanent plastic card with a higher-resolution photo arrives by mail within 30 days.

1. Temporary Permit: A black-and-white or lower-resolution version is printed on the paper document you receive at the DDS.
2. Permanent Card: A high-resolution, color version is printed on the secure, plastic REAL ID card mailed to your address.

The same digital photo is often carried over to your Class D provisional license when you upgrade, unless you visit a DDS center in person to have a new one taken.

Common Photo Issues and Rejections

• Glare or obscured eyes: DDS may ask you to adjust or remove eyewear if it prevents a usable image.
• Head coverings: Follow DDS rules for religious or medical coverings so the face remains identifiable.
• Expression or shadow problems: A compliant photo must clearly show the face for identification.

Permit fees, knowledge-test retakes, testing cutoffs, and document checklists are covered on their dedicated Georgia permit pages.

Eyewear, Head Coverings and Georgia Permit Photo Standards

Georgia DDS requires a clear identification photo with the full face visible. Prescription eyewear is not subject to a blanket ban, although DDS may ask you to adjust or remove it when glare or obstruction prevents a usable image. Head-covering rules allow qualifying religious or medical coverings while keeping the face identifiable.

• It is your primary ID for Joshua's Law driving courses.
• It verifies your identity for the behind-the-wheel road skills test.
• It is typically used as the photo for your next driver's license unless you specifically request a new one during an in-person upgrade.

Before the photo is taken, follow the examiner's instructions so glare, shadows, coverings, or expression do not interfere with identification.