What you need to bring to the DMV

To get a state ID card, you will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person. Bring a proof of identity — a birth certificate, passport, or consular document — plus a proof of residency showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. You will also need your Social Security number or a document showing it.

Some states require a completed process form that you can fill out at home or at the DMV office. Check your state's DMV website before you go to see which form applies to you and whether you can read it in advance. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work for proof of identity.

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 between $10 and $30. Some DMVs will accept a passport or consular ID as a substitute if you cannot get a birth certificate quickly.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or consular document) and proof of your current address to the DMV in person.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents required and whether your state accepts documents from other countries.
  • The fee for a state ID card ranges from $15 to $50 depending on your state and how long you want the card to be valid.
  • Processing time is usually one to two weeks, though some states offer same-day service if you pay an extra fee.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the process and may need to be present at the appointment.

How much it costs and how long it takes

The cost of a state ID card varies by state. Most states charge between $15 and $50 for a card valid for four to eight years. Some states offer a lower-cost option if you want a card valid for only two years. Check your state's DMV website or call the local office to find out the exact fee and whether they accept cash, card, or check.

Standard processing usually takes one to two weeks. If you need the card sooner, many states offer expedited service for an additional $10 to $25, which can bring the card to you in three to five business days. A few states offer same-day ID cards at certain DMV locations, but you may have to pay extra and arrive early in the morning.

Making an appointment at the DMV

Most states now require you to book a DMV appointment online or by phone rather than walk in. Go to your state's DMV website and look for the appointment scheduling tool. You will choose your nearest office, the type of ID you need, and your preferred date and time. Some states let you book weeks in advance; others open appointments only a few days ahead.

If the online system is full, call the DMV directly. The phone number is on your state's DMV website. Have your documents ready when you call so you can answer questions about your identity and address. If you cannot reach anyone by phone, visit the DMV office in person during walk-in hours, though wait times are usually longer.

What to do if you lost your birth certificate

Order a replacement from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. You can usually do this online, by mail, or in person. The office will ask for your full name, date of birth, and your parents' names. Processing takes one to three weeks, and the cost is typically $10 to $30 plus shipping.

While you wait for the birth certificate, ask the DMV whether you can use a passport, consular ID, or other document as proof of identity instead. Some states will accept these alternatives, which can save you time. If you have a passport, bring it to your DMV appointment — it counts as both identity and citizenship proof.

Getting a state ID if you are under 18

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign your process. Some states require the parent to be present at the DMV appointment; others allow you to bring a signed form. Check your state's rules before you book your appointment. Bring the same documents you would as an adult — birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security number — plus a document showing your parent's or guardian's identity.

The cost and processing time are the same as for adults. Your state ID will be valid until you turn 18 or 21, depending on your state's rules. When it expires, you can renew it in person or by mail without needing your parent's signature again.

State ID versus driver's license

A state ID card is an identity document that proves who you are and where you live. It is not a driver's license and does not give you permission to drive. You get a state ID at the DMV using the same process as a driver's license, but it costs less and does not require a driving test or eye exam.

Use a state ID to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, open a bank account, or prove your age. If you do not drive or do not want a driver's license, a state ID is a simpler and cheaper option. Some states call it a "Real ID" if it meets federal standards for air travel and federal building access; check whether your state's ID meets these standards before you travel.

Renewing or replacing your state ID

When your state ID is about to expire, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person, depending on your state. Mail renewal is the cheapest and slowest option — it usually takes two to four weeks. Online renewal is faster if your state offers it, typically taking one to two weeks. In-person renewal at the DMV is the quickest but requires an appointment.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to replace it in person at the DMV. Bring your documents as if you were getting a new ID. Some states charge a replacement fee of $5 to $15 in addition to the regular renewal cost. Ask the DMV whether you can file a police report for a stolen card, which may help if someone uses it fraudulently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most states require a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, contact your state's DMV to ask what documents you can use instead. Some states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number.

What if my address on my proof of residency does not match my name?

Bring a document that shows both your current name and your current address, such as a utility bill or lease in your name. If you recently changed your name or moved, bring both an old document showing your previous address and a new one showing your current address to explain the gap.

Can I get a state ID without going to the DMV in person?

No. You must appear in person at the DMV so they can verify your identity and take your photo. You cannot get a state ID by mail or online, though you can renew an existing card by mail in some states.

How long is a state ID card valid?

Most states issue ID cards valid for four to eight years. Some states offer shorter validity periods of two years at a lower cost. Check your state's DMV website to see how long your card will be valid and when you will need to renew it.

What if I moved to a new state — do I need a new ID?

Yes. Your state ID is only valid in the state that issued it. When you move, you will need to get an ID from your new state. Most states require you to get a new ID within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the important date varies.