Driver's licence and photo card · Western Australia · information
Western Australia driver's licence and photo card photo
In Western Australia the photo on a driver's licence, and on the government photo card used as proof of age, is taken by the Department of Transport (Driver and Vehicle Services) when you apply or when your photo is due for renewal. You do not supply a photo, so there is no file or print to prepare: you turn up with your identity documents and the officer photographs you. This page explains when a new photo is needed, what to expect at the counter and what it costs.
- Photo
- Taken at the counter
- Bring a photo?
- No
- Also covers
- WA Photo Card
Check the official source. The renewal page states the 10-year photo update and the 1- and 5-year fees, as reported by search on 2026-10-29; the page was not re-opened. Photo Card fees not confirmed.
How it works
- Book or visit a Department of Transport Driver and Vehicle Services centre or regional agent (some Australia Post outlets act as agents in regional WA).
- Bring your current licence or evidence of identity documents. New applicants need the full evidence of identity set.
- Have your photo and signature captured at the counter. WA requires an updated photo and signature every 10 years, even when you renew online in between.
- Pay the fee for the licence term you choose; the card is posted to you and you may be given a temporary paper licence.
About the photo
- The photo is digital and taken against the centre's backdrop. Remove hats and sunglasses; neutral expression, eyes open.
- If your photo is less than 10 years old you can usually renew online and the existing photo is reused.
- The WA Photo Card (proof of age for people who do not drive) is applied for at the same counters and uses the same photo process.
Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard licence renewal, 1 year | $49.40 (check) |
| Standard licence renewal, 5 years | $172.00 (check) |
Figures as published on the official fee page and reported by a web search on 2026-10-29; the page itself was not re-opened, so check the current amount before you go.
Current fees on the official site
Why this site has no tool for it
This site only makes photos for documents that accept a photo you supply. Here the photo is taken at the counter, so a file or print you bring is not used, and selling one would be misleading. For documents that do take your own photo, such as passports, many visas and some working with children checks, use the ID photo hub or the photo maker.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my own passport photo instead?
No. The agency photographs you at the counter so the photo on the card is captured under its own lighting and identity checks. A printed or digital photo you bring is not used.
What should I wear for the photo?
Anything you would wear for a passport photo: plain clothing, hair off the face, no hat or sunglasses. Religious head coverings are fine if the whole face is visible.
Can I keep my glasses on?
Usually the counter officer will ask you to remove glasses if there is glare or the frames cover your eyes. If you wear glasses for driving, the licence records that as a condition regardless of the photo.
Why is there no photo tool for this card?
There is nothing to make: the photo is taken by the agency. This page explains the process and costs; use the passport photo tools on this site only for documents that accept a photo you supply.
Sources
Rules on this page last verified against these sources on 29 October 2026. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.