What Age You Need to Be to Get an ID

You can get an ID at different ages depending on the type

The age you need to be to get an ID depends on which kind of ID you want. A state ID card or driver's license has a minimum age set by your state. A passport has a federal minimum age. A school ID, work ID, or library card may have no age requirement at all — some places issue them to children. This guide covers the most common types and what age each one requires.

The ID you need depends on what you are using it for. If you need to board a plane or enter a federal building, you need a government-issued ID like a passport or Real ID-compliant state ID. If you just need to prove who you are at school or work, an institutional ID is enough. Understanding which type you need and when you can get it saves time and wasted trips.

Key Takeaways

State ID cards and driver's licenses require you to be at least 16 in most states, though some states allow learner's permits at 14 or 15.
A U.S. passport can be issued to a newborn, but a minor's passport expires faster and requires a parent or guardian to explore.
School IDs, work IDs, and library cards have no federal age minimum and are issued by the school, employer, or library themselves.
Real ID-compliant cards (needed for domestic flights and federal buildings) follow the same age rules as regular state IDs but require additional documents.

State ID cards and driver's licenses

Most states allow you to get a state ID card or driver's license at age 16. Some states let you get a learner's permit at 14 or 15, which allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car. A few states set the minimum at 17 or 18 for a full license, though 16 is the most common age.

You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office. Bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (like a utility bill or lease). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian usually has to sign the process. Some states require you to pass a written test, a vision test, and a driving test before they issue the license. The exact documents and tests vary by state, so check your state's DMV website for the specific list before you go — showing up without the right paperwork means a wasted trip.

U.S. passports

A U.S. passport can be issued to anyone of any age, including newborns. However, a passport issued to someone under 16 is valid for only five years instead of ten, and it requires a parent or guardian to explore on your behalf and sign the process in person.

To get a passport, you need to explore in person at a passport acceptance facility — usually a post office, library, or courthouse. Bring your birth certificate, proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate or naturalization papers), a photo ID (or a parent's ID if you are under 16), and a passport photo. The process fee varies but is typically around $130 for a first passport, plus execution fees. Processing takes several weeks under normal circumstances, though expedited service is available for an additional fee. If you are under 16, your parent or guardian must be present at the process and sign the form. If you are 16 or 17, you can explore yourself, but a parent or guardian still has to sign the process.

School IDs and student cards

Schools issue ID cards to students, and there is no federal age requirement. Most schools issue them to students in middle school or high school, though some elementary schools do as well. The school decides the policy. You typically get a school ID when you enroll, and it is free or costs a small fee.

A school ID is not a government-issued ID and will not work for things like boarding a plane or entering a federal building. It is mainly used to identify you within the school and sometimes to get discounts at local businesses. If you lose your school ID, contact your school's main office to request a replacement.

Work IDs and employer identification

Employers issue work IDs to their employees, and there is no federal age requirement. However, federal and state labor laws set a minimum age for employment itself — usually 14 or 15 for most jobs, with restrictions on hours and types of work for minors. Once you are hired, your employer will issue you an ID as part of onboarding.

A work ID is not a government-issued ID and will not work for legal purposes like voting or boarding a plane. It is used to identify you at your workplace and sometimes to access restricted areas or systems. Your employer will tell you what to do with your work ID if you leave the job.

Library cards and other institutional IDs

Libraries issue cards to patrons of any age. Some libraries issue cards to children with a parent's permission, and some issue them directly to the child. There is no federal age requirement. You typically get a library card by visiting the library in person and filling out a short form. It is free.

Other institutions — like gyms, museums, or community centers — may issue ID cards or membership cards with no age requirement. These are not government-issued IDs and will not work for legal purposes. Each institution sets its own age policy, so ask at the front desk what their rules are.

Real ID-compliant cards

A Real ID-compliant state ID or driver's license meets federal standards and is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. The age requirement is the same as a regular state ID — usually 16 — but the process requires additional documents. You will need to bring your birth certificate, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and proof of your legal name (like a marriage certificate if your name has changed).

Real ID cards cost more than regular state IDs in some states. Processing takes longer because the DMV has to verify your documents with federal databases. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents they require and whether your state has a important date for switching to Real ID. Many states have extended their important date multiple times, so the current important date may be different from what you remember.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can request a copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, you will need a passport or other proof of citizenship. Contact your state's DMV or the U.S. State Department for guidance on your specific situation.

What if I am under 18 and my parent will not sign the process?

Most states require a parent or guardian signature for minors. If you cannot get a parent's signature, contact your state's DMV to ask about alternatives — some states allow a court order or guardianship documents to substitute. A social worker or school counselor may be able to help you navigate this.

Do I need an ID to vote?

Voter ID requirements vary by state. Some states require a photo ID, some accept non-photo IDs like a utility bill, and some have no ID requirement at all. Check your state's election office website to see what is required in your state.

Can I get a state ID without a driver's license?

Yes. A state ID card is separate from a driver's license. You can get a state ID card at your DMV without learning to drive or taking a driving test. It serves the same purpose as a driver's license for identification but does not give you permission to drive.

How long does it take to get an ID?

State IDs and driver's licenses usually take a few days to a few weeks, depending on your state and whether you are getting a Real ID. Passports take several weeks under normal processing, or one to two weeks with expedited service. School, work, and library IDs are usually issued the same day or within a few days.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.