Where to order your ID online
Most states let you order a state ID card online through their Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, but the process and what you can order varies by state. Some states offer the full ID card by mail after you complete an online form and pay a fee. Others let you renew an existing ID online but require you to visit a DMV office in person for a first-time ID. A few states do not offer online ordering at all and require an in-person visit for any ID transaction.
The fastest way to find out what your state offers is to go directly to your state's DMV website. Search "[your state] DMV" plus "order ID online" or "ID card by mail". The DMV site will tell you whether online ordering is available, what documents you need to upload, and how long delivery takes. Most states that offer this service deliver within two to four weeks.
If your state does not have an online option, you will need to visit a DMV office in person. You can usually schedule an appointment on the same DMV website to avoid waiting in line.
Key Takeaways
- Online ID ordering is available in most states but not all; you must check your specific state's DMV website to see what options exist.
- States that offer online ID ordering typically require you to upload a photo, proof of residency, and proof of identity before paying the fee.
- Delivery times range from two to four weeks in most states that mail IDs, so plan ahead if you need the card by a specific date.
- Some states only allow online renewal of an existing ID and require a first-time ID to be obtained in person at a DMV office.
- If your state does not offer online ordering, you can usually schedule a DMV appointment on their website to reduce wait time.
What documents you need to upload
States that allow online ID ordering require you to upload digital copies of specific documents before you pay. The exact list depends on your state, but most ask for a photo, proof of identity, and proof of residency.
For the photo, you typically upload a recent color photo of your face taken against a plain background. Some states accept a photo you take yourself on a phone or computer; others require a professional photo. Check your state's DMV website for the exact photo requirements before you take or upload one, because photos that do not meet the standard will be rejected and delay your order.
Proof of identity usually means a birth certificate, passport, or previous ID card. Proof of residency means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address. A few states accept a government letter (such as a tax notice or voter registration card) instead. Upload clear, readable images of both sides of any document if it has two sides.
The online ordering process step by step
Once you have confirmed your state offers online ID ordering and gathered your documents, the process is straightforward. Go to your state's DMV website and look for a link labeled "Order ID Online", "explore for ID by Mail", or "Renew ID Online" — the exact wording varies by state.
Click that link and you will be asked to create an account or log in if you already have one. You will then fill out a form with your name, date of birth, address, and other personal information. The form will ask you to upload your photo and copies of your identity and residency documents. Review everything for accuracy before you submit, because errors can delay processing.
After you submit the form, the DMV will show you the fee amount. Pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check — the payment methods accepted vary by state. You will receive a confirmation number and an estimated delivery date. Save this confirmation number in case you need to track your order or contact the DMV about it.
How long delivery takes and what to expect
Most states that mail IDs deliver within two to four weeks of payment. A few states are faster and deliver in one to two weeks; others take up to six weeks during busy periods. Your confirmation email will include an estimated delivery date specific to your order.
The ID will arrive by regular mail at the address you provided on the form. If you do not receive it by the estimated date, check your state's DMV website for a tracking option, or call the DMV customer service number listed on the site. Some states allow you to check the status of your order online using your confirmation number.
If your ID arrives damaged or does not arrive at all, contact your state's DMV. Most states will reissue the card at no additional charge if there was an error on their end. If the card was lost in the mail, the DMV may ask you to file a claim with the postal service before they reissue.
States that require an in-person visit for first-time IDs
Even if your state offers online ID ordering, you may still need to visit a DMV office in person if you are ordering an ID for the first time. States that have this requirement typically allow online renewal of an existing ID but require new applicants to appear in person so the DMV can verify your identity and take an official photo.
If your state has this rule, you can usually complete part of the process online to speed up your in-person visit. You will fill out the form, upload documents, and pay the fee online, then bring a confirmation number to the DMV office. The staff will verify your documents, take your photo, and process the rest of your process on the spot. This hybrid approach usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at the office instead of an hour or more if you start from scratch in person.
What to do if your state does not offer online ordering
If your state's DMV website does not have an online ordering option, you must visit a DMV office in person. The good news is that most states let you schedule an appointment online even if you cannot order the ID online. Go to your state's DMV website and look for "Schedule an Appointment" or "Book an Appointment".
Scheduling ahead usually means a much shorter wait than walking in without an appointment. Bring all required documents — your state's DMV website will list what you need — and arrive a few minutes early. The DMV staff will take your photo, verify your documents, and process your process on the spot. You will usually receive your ID in the mail within two to four weeks, or you may be able to pick it up at the office if your state offers that option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order an ID online if I do not have a birth certificate?
It depends on your state. Some states accept alternative documents such as a passport, naturalization certificate, or previous ID card as proof of identity. Check your state's DMV website for the full list of documents they accept. If you do not have any of the accepted documents, you will likely need to visit a DMV office in person, where staff can help you figure out what you can use.
What if I move before my ID arrives?
Contact your state's DMV as soon as possible with your new address. Some states will redirect your ID to your new address at no charge if you notify them before it ships. Others may require you to cancel the order and place a new one with your updated address. Call the DMV customer service number on your state's website to find out what to do.
Can I order an ID online if I am not a U.S. citizen?
State ID cards are available to non-citizens in most states, but the documents you need to upload are different. You will typically need to upload a passport, visa, or other immigration document instead of a birth certificate. Check your state's DMV website for the specific requirements for non-citizens, or call the DMV to ask.
How much does it cost to order an ID online?
The fee varies by state and ranges from about $15 to $50 for a standard state ID card. Your state's DMV website will show the exact fee before you pay. Some states charge extra if you want a Real ID-compliant card, which is required for federal purposes like boarding a plane.
What if I make a mistake on the online form?
If you catch the error before you submit, go back and fix it. If you submit the form with an error, contact your state's DMV right away. Some states will correct minor errors like a misspelled name at no charge. Others may require you to cancel the order and start over. Call the DMV customer service number on your state's website to ask what they can do.