State ID and driver's license fees vary by state, but most cost between $20 and $100 for a first-time card

The cost of getting an ID depends on which state you live in and what type of ID you need. A standard state ID card typically costs less than a driver's license. Some states charge one flat fee; others charge separately for the card itself, the background check, and the photo. A few states offer free or reduced-cost IDs to people over 65 or with low income, but this varies widely.

The fastest way to find your state's exact cost is to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website directly — the fee structure is always posted there, and it changes less often than you might think. If you cannot access the website, you can call the DMV or visit in person and ask what the total cost will be for your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states charge between $20 and $100 for a first-time state ID or driver's license, with driver's licenses usually costing more.
  • Some states offer free or reduced-cost IDs for seniors, people with disabilities, or those with very low income — check your state's DMV website to see if you may have access to.
  • The total cost often includes separate fees for the card, processing, and a photo, so ask for the full amount before you go.
  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website lists the exact fee for your situation and any discounts available to you.

How state ID costs break down

Most states charge a single fee that covers the card, processing, and photo in one amount. Others break it into pieces — a card fee, a processing fee, and sometimes a photo fee. A few states charge extra if you need a replacement card or if you are renewing rather than getting your first ID.

Driver's licenses usually cost more than state ID cards because they include a driving test and a more thorough background check. If you only need an ID for voting or opening a bank account and do not drive, a state ID card will be cheaper and faster to get.

Some states charge a small additional fee if you want your ID to be REAL ID compliant — a federal standard that lets you use it for air travel and entry to federal buildings. Ask whether your state charges extra for this, because it affects your total cost.

States with free or reduced-cost IDs

A handful of states offer free state IDs to people who meet certain conditions. Illinois, for example, offers free IDs to people 65 and older and to people receiving certain government benefits. Vermont offers free IDs to all residents. Other states offer reduced fees rather than free cards — Maryland charges $5 instead of the standard $70 for people with low income.

The rules for who qualifies change from state to state and sometimes change within a state. Your best source is your state's DMV website, where you can search for "free ID" or "reduced fee ID" and see whether you meet the criteria. If the website is unclear, call the DMV directly and describe your situation — they can tell you the exact cost you will pay.

What documents you need to bring

The documents required to get an ID do not cost money themselves, but you may need to pay to obtain them if you do not have them already. Most states require proof of your date of birth (a birth certificate or passport), proof of your address (a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return).

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office, which typically costs $10 to $30. If you do not have proof of address, you may be able to use a letter from a shelter, a bank statement, or a government benefit notice instead. Ask your DMV what documents they will accept before you pay for anything.

Fees for replacement and renewal

If your ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, most states charge a replacement fee that is the same as or slightly higher than the original card fee. If your ID has expired and you are renewing it, the renewal fee is usually the same as the original fee, though some states charge less for renewals.

A few states charge extra if you need your replacement or renewal to be expedited — delivered faster than the standard timeline. Standard processing usually takes two to four weeks; expedited can cost $10 to $30 extra and takes one to two weeks. Ask whether your state offers expedited service and what it costs before you decide whether you need it.

How to find your state's exact cost

Go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and search for "ID fees" or "driver's license fees." The page will list the cost for a first-time ID, a replacement, and a renewal, and it will note any discounts or free options you may may have access to for. Most states also list what documents you need to bring and how long processing takes.

If you cannot find the information online, call your state's DMV customer service line — the number is on the website. Tell them what type of ID you need and ask for the total cost, including any fees that are added on. Some states charge differently depending on whether you explore in person or by mail, so ask about both if you are not sure which route you will take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a free ID if I am homeless?

Some states offer free or reduced-cost IDs to people experiencing homelessness, but the rules vary. A few states accept a shelter letter as proof of address instead of a utility bill. Contact your state's DMV or a local homeless services organization to ask whether your state has this option and what you need to bring.

Do I have to pay if I renew my ID online?

Most states that allow online renewal charge the same fee as in-person renewal. A few charge slightly less because they save on processing costs. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online renewal is available and whether the fee is different from the in-person fee.

What if I cannot afford the ID fee right now?

Some states offer payment plans or allow you to pay in installments, though this is not common. A few nonprofits and legal aid organizations help people pay for IDs if they are low-income. Contact your local legal aid office or search "[your state] free ID nonprofit" to see whether this option exists where you live.

Is there a fee to explore for an ID, or only when I pick it up?

Most states charge the fee when you explore, whether you explore in person or by mail. A few charge when you pick up the card. Ask your DMV whether the fee is due at process or at pickup so you know what to bring with you.

Do I have to pay extra for a REAL ID?

Most states include REAL ID compliance in the standard ID fee at no extra cost. A few states charge $5 to $15 extra if you want your ID to be REAL ID compliant. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether your state charges extra for this.