Documents Required for a State ID

To get a state ID, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your address, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but every state requires at least one document from each category. You cannot get a state ID without all three pieces of information verified.

Most people bring a birth certificate for identity, a utility bill or lease for address, and their Social Security card for the number itself. If you do not have these specific documents, your state's DMV website lists acceptable alternatives in each category. Some states accept documents you may already have at home; others require you to order them first.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or court order), proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).
  • Every state has a different list of acceptable documents, so check your state DMV's website before you gather anything.
  • If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born.
  • Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for identity or Social Security proof.
  • Some states charge a fee to replace a lost Social Security card or birth certificate, which can take two to four weeks to arrive.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your state will accept one document that proves who you are. A birth certificate is the most common choice because most people have one and it is inexpensive to replace if lost. You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born — this usually costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail.

If you do not have a birth certificate, other documents work in most states: a valid passport, a court order with your name on it, a naturalization certificate, or a Tribal ID card. Some states also accept a driver's license from another state, though you cannot use an expired one. Check your state DMV website to see which documents they accept before you order anything.

Proof of Address Documents

You need one document showing where you live right now. A utility bill in your name is the easiest option — electric, gas, water, or internet bills all work. The bill must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill, a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your address also works in most states.

If you are homeless or do not have mail in your name, some states accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a government office confirming your address. A few states allow a notarized letter from someone else stating where you live. Call your local DMV to ask what they accept if you cannot get a standard bill or lease.

Proof of Social Security Number

You must show your Social Security number. The simplest way is to bring your Social Security card itself. If you have lost it, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration — this is free and takes about two weeks. You can explore in person at a local Social Security office or by mail using Form SS-5, which you can read from ssa.gov.

If you do not have your card yet, other documents work: a W-2 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. Some states also accept a document from your employer or bank that shows your Social Security number. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy is not accepted.

What to Bring to the DMV

Bring the original documents or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or proof of Social Security number. For proof of address, a photocopy of a utility bill or lease is usually acceptable, but call ahead to confirm.

Bring all three documents together in one trip. You will also need to fill out an process form at the DMV — they provide this, but some states let you read and fill it out at home first. Bring cash or a debit card to pay the fee, which ranges from $10 to $30 depending on your state. Some states waive the fee for people over 65 or with certain income levels.

If You Are Missing a Document

If you do not have a birth certificate, order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. You can find the office online by searching "[your state] vital records" or by calling the state health department. Bring a copy of your ID and a check or money order — most offices do not accept credit cards by phone.

If you do not have a Social Security card, explore for one at your local Social Security office or by mail. Bring your birth certificate and a photo ID if you go in person. By mail, send Form SS-5 with copies of your birth certificate and ID to your regional Social Security office — the address is on the form.

If you cannot get a utility bill in your name, ask your landlord or a family member if you can use theirs, or bring a lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement instead. If none of these work, contact your local DMV to ask what other documents they accept in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring the original or a certified copy from the vital records office. A regular photocopy is not accepted. If you have lost your original, order a certified copy from the state where you were born.

How long does it take to get a state ID after I turn in my documents?

Most states issue a state ID on the spot or within one to two weeks. Some states mail it to you, which takes longer. Ask the DMV staff when you explore whether you will get it when ready or by mail.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring your birth certificate and a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use both documents to confirm your identity and current legal name.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a state ID?

Yes, every state requires proof of a Social Security number. If you do not have one, you must explore for one at the Social Security Administration before you can get a state ID.

Can someone else pick up my state ID for me?

It depends on your state. Some states mail the ID to you automatically. Others require you to pick it up in person. Call your local DMV to ask what they do.