MavCARD Photo Guidelines

To ensure a photo is accepted, please read and follow all instructions and guidelines carefully.

Find More Information About:

Uploading Your MavCARD Photo

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Claim Identity on TrueYou

Start by visiting the TrueYou website to claim your NetID and password. This step is required to access your MavCARD account.

Step 2: Access MavCARD GET Online or MavCARD GET Mobile Application

Visit MavCARD GET Online or download the MavCARD GET Mobile Application, available for Apple or Android devices.

Step 3: Log In

Step 4: Upload the Photo

After logging in, navigate to the "Upload Photo" section in the menu. Follow the prompts to submit the photo for the MavCARD.

Step 5: Check Your Confirmation Email

You will be notified if your photo has been approved or rejected by email. Photos that are rejected will need to be resubmitted to better align with photo guidelines (below).

Please Note: Submitting a photo does not automatically print the ID. Photos submitted are manually reviewed by our staff and may take up to one full business day to be reviewed.

Your MavCARD photo should look similar to a U.S. passport or driver’s license photo. Photos that do not meet these requirements will be rejected and a new photo will need to be submitted.

Photo Requirements

Recent Photo: Taken within the last six months
Color Photo: Photos must be in color (no black-and-white or heavily filtered/tinted images)
Background: Use a plain white, gray, or other solid light-colored background
Framing: Show a full front view of your face and shoulders. Face the camera directly — no side profiles, angled shots, or head tilts
Positioning: Keep your head centered with both eyes open and clearly visible
Expression: A neutral expression is preferred. A natural smile is okay as long as your facial features remain clearly visible
Lighting & Quality: Photo must be well-lit, in focus, and free of shadows on your face or background

Photos That Will Be Rejected

Edited or AI Generated Images: Photos with filters, digital edits, beauty enhancements, or suspected AI-generated content
Outdoor Backgrounds: Photos taken outside or with outdoor scenery/backgrounds
Selfies: Selfie-style photos are not accepted
Angled or Tilted Heads: Your head must face forward and remain level with the camera
Obstructions: Hands, gestures, phones, or other objects covering any part of the face
Poor Source Images: Photos taken in vehicles or photos of existing photos, IDs, passports, or documents
Headwear: Hats or head coverings that block the hairline or face
- Exception: Religious or medical head coverings are allowed if the full face remains visible
Eyewear Issues: Sunglasses, tinted lenses, or glasses glare that prevents your eyes from being clearly visible
Accessories: Headphones, earbuds, masks, or face-covering accessories
Non-Everyday Attire: Costumes or clothing/accessories that make it difficult to confirm identity
Additional Subjects: Other people or pets visible in the photo

MavCARD Photo Infographic

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