ID costs vary by state, but most people pay between $20 and $100

The price of a state ID or driver's license 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 in the same state. Some states charge one flat fee; others charge different amounts based on how long the ID is valid (usually 4, 5, or 8 years). A few states offer reduced fees for seniors or people with low income, though these discounts are not universal.

You will also need to pay for documents that prove your identity and residency before you can get an ID. These documents—like a birth certificate, passport, or utility bill—may cost money to obtain if you do not already have them. The total out-of-pocket cost can be significantly higher than the ID fee alone if you have to order copies of records.

Key Takeaways

  • State ID cards usually cost between $20 and $60, while driver's licenses typically range from $30 to $100, depending on your state and the length of validity.
  • You will need to provide documents like a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address, and obtaining copies of these can add $10 to $50 or more to your total cost.
  • Some states offer reduced fees for people over 65 or those receiving certain benefits, but you must ask at your local DMV office to learn about you may have access to.
  • Expedited or rush processing, if available in your state, usually costs extra and can add $15 to $50 to the standard fee.

Standard ID and driver's license fees by type

A state ID card (also called a non-driver ID) is the cheapest option in most states. These typically cost between $20 and $60 and are valid for 4 to 8 years depending on your state. You do not need to pass a driving test or vision test to get one.

A driver's license costs more because it requires testing. Most states charge between $30 and $100 for a standard driver's license, again depending on how many years it is valid. A few states charge more for REAL ID-compliant licenses (which meet federal standards for air travel and federal buildings), sometimes adding $10 to $20 to the base fee.

If you are renewing an ID rather than getting one for the first time, the fee is usually the same as a new ID in most states. A handful of states charge slightly less for renewals, but this is uncommon.

Documents you need to provide and what they cost

Before the DMV will issue an ID, you must show documents that prove who you are and where you live. The standard package includes a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of current address (like a utility bill or lease). If you already have these documents at home, there is no additional cost. If you need to order them, expect to pay.

A birth certificate copy costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state and how fast you need it. You order it from the vital records office in the state where you were born, not your current state. A Social Security card replacement is free if you order it from the Social Security Administration, but it takes 1 to 2 weeks by mail. A proof of address (utility bill, lease, bank statement) is usually free if you have one already; if not, you may need to wait for a bill or ask your landlord for a letter.

If you do not have a birth certificate or cannot locate it, you will need to order a certified copy from the vital records office. This is the single biggest cost for many people getting an ID for the first time.

Reduced fees and fee waivers

Some states offer lower fees for seniors (usually age 65 or older) or for people receiving certain government benefits. These discounts are not automatic—you have to ask at the DMV and show proof of your age or benefit status. The discount is usually $5 to $15 off the standard fee.

A very small number of states have fee waiver programs for people with extremely low income, but these are rare and have strict income limits. Your best source of information is your state's DMV website or a call to your local DMV office. They can tell you whether your state offers any reduced fees and what documents you need to show.

Rush and expedited processing fees

If you need an ID faster than the standard processing time (usually 2 to 4 weeks), most states offer expedited or rush options for an extra fee. Expedited processing typically costs $15 to $30 extra and cuts the wait time in half. Rush processing, where available, costs $30 to $50 extra and may get your ID to you in a few days.

Not all states offer these options, and some only offer them at certain DMV locations. Check your state's DMV website to see what is available and whether you can pay the extra fee online or only in person.

What happens if you cannot afford the fee

If the cost of an ID is a real barrier for you, start by calling your local DMV office and asking whether your state has any fee reduction or waiver programs. Some states have emergency ID programs or hardship waivers, though these are uncommon and have strict requirements.

Another option is to check whether a local nonprofit or community organization in your area helps people get IDs. Some cities and counties fund programs that cover ID costs for people experiencing homelessness or extreme financial hardship. A 211 call (dial 2-1-1) can connect you to local resources in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a state ID cost compared to a driver's license?

A state ID card is usually $10 to $30 cheaper than a driver's license in the same state. For example, if your state charges $50 for a driver's license, a state ID might cost $25 to $35. The exact difference depends on your state.

Do I have to pay for a birth certificate if I do not have one?

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you must order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This costs $10 to $30 depending on the state. You cannot get an ID without one.

Can I get an ID for free if I am low income?

Most states do not offer free IDs, but a few have hardship waivers or reduced fees for people with very low income. Call your local DMV office and ask whether your state has a fee waiver program and what income limit applies.

What is the difference between a regular ID and a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID that meets federal security standards. It costs $10 to $20 more than a regular ID in most states. You need a REAL ID to fly domestically or enter federal buildings, but a regular ID is fine for other purposes.

How much extra does rush processing cost?

Expedited processing usually costs $15 to $30 extra and takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Rush processing, where available, costs $30 to $50 extra and may arrive in a few days. Not all states offer these options.