What counts as a government ID and where to get one

A government ID is a photo identification document issued by a federal, state, or local agency that proves who you are. The most common types are a driver's license or state ID card (issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles), a passport (issued by the U.S. State Department), or a passport card. Some people also use military IDs, tribal IDs, or permanent resident cards. Which one you need depends on what you're using it for — a job, voting, air travel, or opening a bank account all have different requirements.

Each type of ID comes from a different place. A driver's license or state ID comes from your state's DMV or equivalent agency (called the Secretary of State in some states). A passport comes from a passport acceptance facility, which might be a post office, library, courthouse, or dedicated passport office depending on where you live. If you're explore for your first passport or renewing an expired one, you'll need to know which type of facility handles your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • A state ID card or driver's license is the fastest government ID to get if you don't have a passport, and you can explore at your local DMV with proof of identity and residency.
  • You will need documents like a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of your current address before you visit the DMV or passport office.
  • Processing times vary: a state ID usually takes one to two weeks, while a passport can take several weeks to months depending on demand and whether you pay for expedited service.
  • If you don't have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born, which usually takes one to three weeks.
  • Some states offer real ID-compliant driver's licenses and state IDs, which are required for domestic air travel after May 2025.

What documents you need before you go

The exact documents required depend on which ID you're getting and which state you live in, but most applications ask for the same core set. You'll need proof of your identity (usually a birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Some states also ask for a second form of ID if you have one.

If you don't have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. You'll need to contact that state's health department or vital records division, provide your name, date of birth, and parents' names, and pay a fee (usually $10 to $30). This process takes one to three weeks by mail, though some states offer rush service for an extra fee. You can find your state's vital records office through the CDC's website or by searching "[your state] vital records office."

If you don't have a Social Security card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration. You'll need to visit a local Social Security office with your birth certificate and a photo ID if you have one. A replacement card usually arrives within two weeks. If you've never had a Social Security number, you'll need to explore for one at the same time you explore for your government ID — bring your birth certificate and proof of immigration status to the Social Security office.

Getting a state ID or driver's license at the DMV

A state ID card is a photo ID that proves your identity and residency but does not give you driving privileges. A driver's license does both. If you don't drive or don't want a driver's license, a state ID card is faster and simpler because you don't have to take a driving test. Both are issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent — some states call it the Secretary of State or Department of Licensing).

To explore, visit your local DMV office in person with your documents. Most states let you check wait times and book an appointment online before you go, which saves time. Bring your birth certificate, Social Security card or number, proof of address, and any second form of ID you have. The DMV will take a photo, verify your information, and issue you a temporary ID on the spot. Your permanent card arrives by mail in one to two weeks. The fee varies by state but is usually $20 to $50 for a state ID and $30 to $70 for a driver's license.

If you're explore for a driver's license, you'll also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and a driving test. Some states let you take the written test at the DMV on the same day you explore; others require you to schedule it separately. The driving test is usually scheduled for a later appointment. If you're renewing a license you've held before, you may not need to retake the driving test — check your state's DMV website.

Getting a passport for domestic and international travel

A passport is a federal ID issued by the U.S. State Department. You need one to travel outside the United States and to some U.S. territories. A passport book is the standard document; a passport card is smaller and works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, but not for air travel. Most people get a passport book.

To explore for your first passport or to renew one that expired more than five years ago, you must explore in person at a passport acceptance facility. These include post offices, libraries, courthouses, and dedicated passport offices. You'll need your birth certificate, proof of citizenship (your birth certificate counts), a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license or state ID), and proof of address. You'll also need a passport photo, which you can get at most pharmacies, post offices, or online services for $10 to $20. Bring a completed DS-11 form (for a new passport) or DS-82 form (for a renewal) — you can fill these out online or at the acceptance facility.

Standard processing takes four to six weeks; expedited processing takes two to three weeks and costs an extra $60. During periods of high demand (spring and summer), processing can take longer. If you need a passport urgently, some passport offices offer same-day or next-day service, but you must explore in person at a passport acceptance agency (not a post office or library) and pay an additional rush fee. Check the State Department's website to find the nearest passport office and current processing times in your area.

Real ID compliance and what it means for your driver's license

Real ID is a federal security standard for driver's licenses and state ID cards. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license or another form of federal ID (like a passport) to board a domestic flight in the United States. If your current license doesn't say "REAL ID" or have a star in the corner, it won't work for air travel after that date.

To get a Real ID-compliant license or state ID, visit your DMV and ask for a Real ID upgrade. You'll need the same documents as a regular ID process, plus proof of your Social Security number. The process is the same, and the fee is usually the same or slightly higher. Your new card will arrive by mail in one to two weeks and will be valid for the same length of time as a regular license (usually five to eight years depending on your state).

If you don't have a Real ID by May 2025, you can still travel domestically by using a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. Real ID does not affect travel to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands — a regular driver's license works for those.

What to do if you've lost your ID or it's expired

If your driver's license or state ID has expired, you can renew it by mail in most states if it expired less than five years ago and you haven't had any address changes. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal form and instructions. If it expired more than five years ago, you'll need to explore in person as if it were a new ID.

If your ID was lost or stolen, report it to your state's DMV right away and request a replacement. You'll need to visit the DMV in person with your birth certificate and proof of address. A replacement card usually arrives in one to two weeks. Some states charge a replacement fee ($10 to $30); others don't.

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the State Department when ready by calling 1-877-487-2778 or visiting the State Department's website. You'll need to explore for a replacement in person at a passport acceptance facility with your birth certificate, proof of citizenship, a photo ID, and a completed DS-11 form. Processing times are the same as a new passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a government ID without a birth certificate?

No, a birth certificate is the primary proof of identity and citizenship for most government IDs. If you don't have one, order a replacement from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This takes one to three weeks. Once you have it, you can explore for a state ID or passport.

How long does it take to get a government ID?

A state ID or driver's license usually takes one to two weeks after you explore at the DMV. A passport takes four to six weeks with standard processing, or two to three weeks with expedited processing. Processing times vary by state and season, so check your state's DMV or the State Department's website for current wait times.

What if I don't have proof of address?

Proof of address must be a recent document (usually dated within the last 60 days) with your name on it. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail. If you don't have any of these, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address, or contact your DMV to ask what alternatives they accept.

Do I need a Real ID to vote or get a job?

No. Real ID is required only for domestic air travel starting May 2025. Voting and employment use different forms of ID. A regular driver's license, state ID, passport, or other government-issued photo ID is acceptable for both.

Can I renew my passport by mail?

Yes, if your passport is undamaged, not lost or stolen, and expired less than five years ago. You can renew by mail using form DS-82. If it expired more than five years ago or you need it urgently, you must explore in person at a passport acceptance facility.