Where to start: your state's motor vehicles office

The fastest way to get a government-issued ID is through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State, or equivalent agency — the name varies by state. Most states issue a standard ID card separate from a driver's license, and you do not need to drive to get one. You can walk in, bring the documents listed below, and leave with a card in hand or receive it by mail within two to four weeks.

Some states now let you start the process online or by mail, which cuts down on waiting room time. Check your state's official website directly — search "[your state] DMV ID card" — because the process and fees differ. A standard ID card typically costs between $15 and $35.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV or Secretary of State office issues government ID cards and driver's licenses; you can get an ID card without a license.
  • You will need proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of residence (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • Some states let you explore online or by mail, while others require an in-person visit; check your state's official website to see which applies to you.
  • If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office, which usually takes one to three weeks.
  • If cost is a barrier, some states waive or reduce ID fees for people with low income; ask at your DMV office or check your state's website.

What documents you need to bring

Every state requires proof of identity and proof of residence. For identity, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers — whichever you have. If you were born outside the United States, a passport works for both identity and citizenship proof. 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; this usually takes one to three weeks and costs $10 to $30.

For proof of residence, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you are homeless or do not have mail in your name, some states accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or trusted person vouching for your address; call your DMV ahead of time to ask what they will accept.

You will also need your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS; this takes four to six weeks. Bring the process form and proof of identity to an IRS office or authorized agent.

If you do not have a birth certificate

Order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. Search "[your state] vital records" or "[your state] birth certificate" on the official state website. Most states let you order by mail or online. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and parents' names. The cost is usually $10 to $30, and processing takes one to three weeks.

If you were born outside the United States, contact the vital records office in that country. If you do not know where you were born or cannot reach that office, bring whatever identity documents you do have to your DMV office and ask what alternatives they accept. Some states will work with you if you bring a combination of documents — a school record, medical record, or affidavit from someone who knew you at birth.

explore in person at the DMV

Go to your local DMV office during business hours with your documents. Bring the originals, not copies — the staff will make copies if needed. Some offices use a ticket system; take a number when you arrive. Wait times vary widely; some offices are faster early in the morning or on weekday afternoons.

When you reach the window, tell the staff you want a standard ID card. They will check your documents, take your photo, and collect the fee. You will either receive the card on the spot (some states issue them when ready) or by mail within two to four weeks. Ask for a receipt showing your process was submitted; keep it until your card arrives.

explore by mail or online

Some states let you explore for an ID card by mail or through an online portal. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available. If it is, you will typically fill out a form, upload photos of your documents, pay the fee online, and mail in the originals or certified copies. Processing takes longer this way — usually four to six weeks — because staff have to verify your documents by hand.

If you explore online, print the confirmation and keep it with your receipt. If you explore by mail, use certified mail with tracking so you know when the office receives your documents. Include a copy of your ID or another document showing your name and address so the office can match your process to your documents.

Cost and fee waivers

A standard ID card costs between $15 and $35 depending on your state. Some states charge extra for expedited processing (five to seven business days instead of two to four weeks). If you cannot afford the fee, ask your DMV office whether they waive or reduce it for people with low income. Many states do, though the income threshold varies.

If your DMV does not offer a waiver, look for community organizations in your area that help with ID costs — local nonprofits, legal aid offices, and social services agencies sometimes have small funds for this. Call 211 (a free referral line) or search "[your city] free ID information" to find local programs.

What to do if you lost your ID or it expired

If your ID expired, you can renew it by mail in most states. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal form. You will need to send in your expired card, a new photo (some states let you use the old one), and the renewal fee. Processing takes two to four weeks.

If your ID was lost or stolen, go to your DMV office in person with your other documents (birth certificate, proof of residence, Social Security number). Tell them you need a replacement. The fee is usually the same as a new card, though some states charge a small replacement fee on top. You will receive a new card with a different number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID card if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. You can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. explore for an ITIN through the IRS using Form W-7; bring proof of identity and the form to an IRS office or authorized agent. Processing takes four to six weeks. Some states also accept other documents like a passport or consular ID in place of a Social Security number — call your DMV to ask.

What if I do not have a permanent address?

If you are homeless or living in temporary housing, bring a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or trusted person stating your current location and that you stay there. Some states also accept a PO box or the address of a social services agency. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask what proof of residence they will accept in your situation.

How long does it take to get an ID card?

If you explore in person and the office issues cards on-site, you may leave with your card the same day. Otherwise, expect two to four weeks by mail. Online and mail applications take four to six weeks because staff verify documents by hand. Expedited processing (five to seven business days) is available in some states for an extra fee.

Can I use a passport instead of an ID card?

A passport works as government-issued ID for most purposes — travel, banking, voting. It costs more ($130 to $165 for a new one) and takes longer to get (four to six weeks standard, or one to two weeks expedited). If you need ID quickly and cheaply, a state ID card is faster and less expensive. If you travel internationally, a passport is worth the cost.

What if my documents are from another country?

Bring them to your DMV office along with proof of residence in your state. If your documents are not in English, bring the originals and certified English translations. A passport from any country works as proof of identity. If you have a consular ID from your country's embassy, that also works. Staff will tell you if anything else is needed.