State DMV Bans Smiling in Photos
Image via Wikipedia
Three cheers for Virginia! The commonwealth has taken decisive action in the war against terror terrible drivers’ license photos. From now on, there will be no more looking at the camera and saying of “cheese.” No more will drivers have to explain away the forced smiles that adorn their license mugshots. Yes, smiling is now, officially verboten.
You think I’m making this up? Check out today’s Washington Post:
As part of the DMV’s effort to develop super-secure driver’s licenses and foolproof identification cards, the agency has issued a smile ban, directing customers to adopt a “neutral expression” in their portraits…
You see, America? The terrorists have already won.
Comments
2 T/S Member Comments Called Out, 7 Total Comments
I always scowl when having my picture taken at the DMV, it’s my best look!
Well, Virginia is calling you!
What is she calling me?
In response to another comment. See in context »Virginia is for lovers (not smilers).
Michael,
I guess they’ll have to keep all that love to themselves.
David,
God, no problem on this end. I wish they would do it in California. I am one of those people that can’t fake a smile to save my life. I have one good picture from the DMV, it is my last expired driver’s license, and I kept it. It’s before I started shaving my head and looked like a thug. I like the thug look, it works for me. My picture on here, I am wearing a stocking cap.
I wonder about people that may have overdone Botox or plastic surgery and will not be able to even force a neutral expression. What does the DMV do with them? Have a composite drawn?
Sandy
Sandy,
Yes, something of a mixed blessing. Invariably the DL photo is one to forget. This new restriction will certainly put everybody in the same boat, I guess.