Documents and information you'll need to bring

To get a new ID card, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal presence. The exact documents vary by state, but most require a birth certificate or passport, a recent utility bill or lease, and your Social Security number. You'll also need to bring any existing ID you have, even if it's expired.

Some states accept a wider range of documents than others. For example, a few states take a school ID or employee badge as proof of identity if it has your photo, while most require a government-issued document. Check your state's DMV website before you go — bringing the wrong papers means a wasted trip and a delay in getting your card.

If you're replacing a lost or stolen ID, bring a police report or the case number if you have it. If your ID was damaged, bring the card itself. These documents help the DMV process your request faster and may waive certain fees.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or existing ID), proof of where you live (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of citizenship or legal status.
  • Each state's DMV has its own list of accepted documents, so check your state's website before you go to avoid making a second trip.
  • Bring your Social Security number or card, and any old ID you still have, even if it's expired or damaged.
  • If your ID was lost, stolen, or damaged, bring a police report number or the damaged card to speed up processing.

Proof of identity documents

A valid passport is the strongest proof of identity and works in every state. If you don't have a passport, a birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born is the next best option. Both of these documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies don't count.

If you're renewing an ID and your current one isn't expired, you may be able to use it as your proof of identity in some states. Military ID, tribal ID, and school ID with a photo sometimes work too, but this varies widely. Call your DMV before you go if you're unsure whether what you have will be accepted.

Proof of residency documents

A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days shows where you live. The bill or statement must have your name and current address on it. If you're homeless or living with someone else, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, along with a signed statement from you saying you live there.

Bank statements, insurance documents, and government mail also work in most states if they're recent and have your address. Avoid using documents with a PO box instead of a street address — many DMVs won't accept them as proof of residency.

Proof of citizenship or legal status

A U.S. birth certificate proves citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, bring a passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). If you're not a citizen but have legal status to be in the country, your visa, employment authorization document, or other immigration paperwork will work.

Some states also accept a Social Security card as partial proof, but most require one of the documents above. If you were born in another country and don't have a passport or naturalization papers yet, contact your state's DMV to ask what documents they'll accept while you're waiting for those to arrive.

Your Social Security number

You'll need to provide your Social Security number when you explore. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though most DMVs will accept the number alone if you know it.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you may still be able to get an ID in some states, but the process is different — ask your DMV what documents you'll need instead. Some states issue ID cards to people without a Social Security number, while others require one. Calling ahead saves you a trip if you fall into this category.

Fees and payment

Most states charge between $20 and $60 for a new ID card, though the price varies. Some states waive the fee if your ID was lost or stolen and you have a police report. Bring cash, a debit card, or a check — not all DMV locations take credit cards, so call ahead if you're not sure.

If you're getting your first ID and you're under 18, a parent or guardian usually has to come with you. Some states let them sign a form instead if they can't be there in person, but you'll need to ask your DMV about their specific rules.

What to do before you go

Visit your state's DMV website and look for the page about ID cards or driver's licenses — the documents needed are usually the same. Write down the list of accepted documents and check off what you have at home. If you're missing something, get it before you go rather than showing up unprepared.

Many states let you make an appointment online or by phone. If yours does, book a time slot — it usually cuts your wait time in half. If you can't make an appointment, go early in the morning on a weekday, when lines are shortest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. Most states require an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. A photocopy won't work. If you don't have your original, order a certified copy from the vital records office before you go to the DMV.

What if I don't have a current address?

If you're homeless, some states let you use a shelter address, a PO box at a mail service, or a letter from a social service agency. Call your DMV and explain your situation — they have options, but they vary by state.

Do I need to bring my old ID if it's expired?

Yes, bring it if you have it. An expired ID still helps the DMV verify your identity and speeds up processing. If your old ID is lost or stolen, bring a police report instead.

Can someone else pick up my ID card for me?

Most states require you to be present when you explore, but you can usually pick up the finished card yourself or have someone else get it if you sign a form. Ask your DMV about their pickup rules when you explore.

How long does it take to get a new ID card?

If you explore in person, you usually get a temporary ID on the spot and the permanent card arrives by mail in one to three weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee if you need it faster.