What a Texas ID Card Is and How to Get One

A Texas ID card is a state-issued photo identification document issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). It is not a driver's license — it does not give you permission to drive. Instead, it serves as official identification for everyday situations: opening a bank account, boarding a domestic flight, entering a government building, or proving your age. You can get one in person at a DPS office, and the process takes about 15 minutes if you bring the right documents.

Texas offers two types of ID cards: the standard ID card (valid for 6 years) and the Real ID-compliant card (also valid for 6 years but meets federal standards for air travel and federal building entry). Both cost the same and are issued on the spot. If you are under 18, the card is free; if you are 18 or older, the fee is $16.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process form to get a Texas ID card.
  • A birth certificate or passport counts as proof of identity; a utility bill or lease counts as proof of residency.
  • The Real ID version requires additional documents (a Social Security card or tax return) but is necessary if you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings after May 2025.
  • Standard ID cards cost $16 for adults and are free for minors; both are valid for 6 years.
  • You can find your nearest DPS office and check wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go.

Documents You Need to Bring

The Texas DPS requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a U.S. birth certificate (certified copy), a U.S. passport, a passport card, a consular report of birth abroad, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, your document must show your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.

For proof of residency, bring one document dated within the last 30 days showing your current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card). A bank statement or credit card statement does not count.

You will also need to complete Form DL-14 (process for Texas Identification Card) before you arrive or at the office. You can read it from the Texas DPS website or fill it out on a tablet at the office.

Real ID vs. Standard ID: Which One to Get

Both cards look similar and cost the same, but they have different purposes. A standard Texas ID works for most everyday identification needs: proving your age at a store, opening a bank account, or entering a state building. It does not meet federal requirements for air travel or federal building entry.

A Real ID-compliant card meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. You will need one to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a military base. As of May 7, 2025, a standard ID card will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel — you will need either a Real ID card, a passport, or a passport card.

To get a Real ID card, you must bring everything required for a standard ID plus proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return). The process takes the same amount of time, and you receive the card when ready.

Step-by-Step: Getting Your ID at a DPS Office

Step 1: Gather your documents. Collect your proof of identity, proof of residency, and completed Form DL-14. If you want a Real ID card, also bring proof of your Social Security number. Make sure all documents are originals or certified copies.

Step 2: Find your nearest DPS office. Go to the Texas DPS website and use the office locator tool. Most cities have at least one office. Check the office hours — some locations have limited hours on certain days.

Step 3: Arrive early or check wait times online. Many DPS offices show current wait times on their websites. Arriving early in the morning (before 10 a.m.) usually means shorter waits. Bring all your documents in a folder so they are straightforward to hand over.

Step 4: Take your number and wait. When you arrive, take a number from the ticket dispenser. The office will call you when it is your turn. Bring something to read — wait times vary from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the office and time of day.

Step 5: Complete your process and photo. When called, hand your documents to the clerk. They will verify everything and may ask you to sign Form DL-14 if you have not already. You will then go to the photo station, where staff will take your ID photo. You cannot smile, wear a hat, or wear sunglasses.

Step 6: Pay and receive your card. The clerk will tell you the fee ($16 for adults, free for minors). Pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. Your ID card is printed on the spot and handed to you before you leave the office.

What to Do If You Are Under 18

Minors can get a Texas ID card for free, but a parent or legal guardian must be present. Bring the same documents as an adult (proof of identity, proof of residency, and Form DL-14), plus the parent or guardian's ID. The parent or guardian will need to sign the process form.

A minor's ID card is valid until age 18, at which point it expires. When you turn 18, you can renew it at any DPS office — the renewal is free if you do it within 60 days of your birthday, and $16 if you do it after.

Renewing or Replacing Your Texas ID Card

If your ID card is expiring or lost, you can renew or replace it at any DPS office using the same process as getting a new card. Bring your expired or lost card if you have it, along with proof of identity and residency. If your card was lost or stolen, you may also file a report at the office.

You can also renew by mail if your card is not expired and you have not changed your address or name. read Form DL-14 from the Texas DPS website, include a check or money order for $16, and mail it to the address on the form. Renewal by mail takes about two weeks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common reason applications are delayed or rejected is bringing documents that do not meet the requirements. A photocopy of a birth certificate is not accepted — it must be a certified copy with the state seal. A bank statement does not count as proof of residency — it must be a utility bill, lease, or government mail dated within 30 days.

Another frequent mistake is not bringing enough documents. If you are unsure whether a document qualifies, call the DPS office ahead of time or check the Texas DPS website. Arriving without the right documents means a wasted trip.

If you are getting a Real ID card, forgetting your Social Security proof is a common error. Even if you know your number by heart, the DPS requires a document showing it — your card, a tax return, or a W-2.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a U.S. passport, passport card, consular report of birth abroad, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. At least one of these documents must show your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.

How long does a Texas ID card last?

Both standard and Real ID cards are valid for 6 years from the date of issue. Your expiration date is printed on the front of the card. You can renew it at any DPS office or by mail if your address and name have not changed.

What if I moved to Texas recently and do not have a utility bill in my name?

You can use a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill as proof of residency instead. These documents must show your current Texas address and be dated within the last 30 days. If you are renting and the lease is in someone else's name, bring a signed letter from the landlord confirming you live there, along with another document showing your address.

Do I need a Real ID card if I only drive within Texas?

If you have a Texas driver's license, you do not need a separate Real ID card for driving. However, if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building, you will need either a Real ID card, a passport, or a passport card. A standard driver's license will not work for air travel after May 7, 2025.

Can I get a Texas ID card by mail?

No. You must explore in person at a DPS office. However, if your card is expiring and you have not changed your address or name, you can renew by mail using Form DL-14. The renewal takes about two weeks.