What You Need to Know Before You Start

Getting a government-issued ID means visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency in person. You will need to bring specific documents that prove who you are, where you live, and your age — the exact list depends on which state you live in and which type of ID you want. Most states issue a standard ID card (different from a driver's license) if you do not drive, and the process takes between 15 minutes and an hour at the office, though some states mail the card to you afterward.

The cost varies by state, from free to around $30 for a standard ID card. Some states waive the fee if you are over 65, receiving certain benefits, or have a documented disability. If you have lost your ID or it has expired, the process is the same as getting one for the first time, though you may need to bring your old card if you still have it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your state's DMV or equivalent office in person with original documents proving your identity, date of birth, and current address.
  • Acceptable documents usually include a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bill, lease, or bank statement — but the exact list varies by state.
  • Standard ID cards cost between free and $30 depending on your state and age, and take one to four weeks to arrive by mail after your visit.
  • You can find your state's DMV office location and required documents list on your state government website or by calling 211 for a local referral.

Finding Your State's ID Requirements

Each state sets its own rules for what documents you need to bring. The fastest way to find the exact list is to search "[your state] DMV ID requirements" or visit your state's official DMV website directly. Most state DMV websites have a page titled "Getting an ID Card" or "Non-Driver ID" that lists every document you can use.

If you cannot find your state's website or prefer to call, dial 211 and tell them you need to find your local DMV office and ID requirements. They will give you the phone number and address of the nearest office, plus tell you which documents that office accepts. Some states also have walk-in hours where you do not need an appointment, while others require you to book a time slot online or by phone.

Documents You Will Likely Need

Most states require you to bring at least one document from each of these categories: proof of identity, proof of date of birth, and proof of current address. A birth certificate or passport covers both identity and date of birth. A Social Security card or tax return can serve as identity. For your current address, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

Some states accept fewer documents than others. For example, a few states will issue an ID with only a birth certificate and a utility bill, while others want three separate documents. If you do not have a birth certificate, some states accept a passport, naturalization papers, or a court order showing your legal name and date of birth. Bring originals, not copies — the DMV staff will check them in person.

What to Do If You Are Missing Documents

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail. Search "[your state] vital records birth certificate" to find the office and process form. Some states let you order online; others require you to mail in a form or call.

If you do not have a Social Security card, visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement. You will need to bring your ID to a Social Security office in person, or mail in a form with a copy of your ID. If you do not have any ID yet, ask the Social Security office which documents they accept instead — they may take a birth certificate and utility bill.

If you have no address because you are unhoused, some states accept a letter from a shelter, food bank, or social services agency on their letterhead stating your name and that you receive services there. Call your local DMV to ask what they accept in your situation.

The Day of Your Visit

Arrive at your DMV office with all your original documents, your Social Security number written down, and a pen. You will fill out a form (usually called an "process for ID Card" or similar) with your name, address, date of birth, and signature. The staff will check your documents, take a photo of you, and collect the fee if there is one. Some states charge extra if you want your ID to arrive faster.

Ask the staff how long it will take to receive your card by mail — most states mail it within two to four weeks. Some offices hand you a temporary paper ID on the spot that you can use until the card arrives. If you need your ID urgently, ask whether your state offers expedited processing and what it costs.

Getting an ID Without a Fixed Address or Legal Name

If your legal name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). If you have never had a legal name change but go by a different name, you will need to use your legal name on the ID — the DMV cannot issue an ID under a name that is not on your birth certificate or other legal document.

If you are unhoused or living in a shelter, you can use the shelter's address on your ID, or ask the DMV whether you can list a social services agency's address instead. Some states allow you to use a P.O. box, though this is less common. Call your local DMV ahead of time to ask what they accept in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a standard ID card cost?

Most states charge between $10 and $30 for a standard ID card. Some states offer it free if you are 65 or older, receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or have a documented disability. Call your state DMV to ask whether you may have access to for a fee waiver.

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

Yes. You can order a birth certificate from your state's vital records office, which usually takes one to three weeks and costs $10 to $30. In the meantime, some states accept a passport, naturalization papers, or court order instead. Call your DMV to ask which documents they will take.

What if I lost my ID or it expired?

The process is the same as getting a new one — bring your documents to the DMV. If you still have your old ID, bring it along, though most states do not require it. You will pay the same fee as a first-time ID.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on your state. Some DMV offices take walk-ins during certain hours; others require you to book a time slot online or by phone. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to find out whether your local office takes appointments.

How long does it take to get my ID after my visit?

Most states mail your ID card within two to four weeks of your visit. Some offices give you a temporary paper ID on the spot that you can use until the card arrives. Ask the staff on the day of your visit how long yours will take.