Start with proof of identity and residency

To get a replacement ID, you will need to bring two things to your state's DMV or ID office: a document that proves who you are, and a document that proves where you live. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but the pattern is the same everywhere. Your state's DMV website lists which documents it takes, and you should check that list before you go—showing up with the wrong papers means a wasted trip.

Proof of identity usually means a passport, birth certificate, or a document issued by a government agency that has your photo or signature. Proof of residency usually means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address printed on it. Some states accept a phone bill or insurance document. The residency document typically needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one identity document (passport, birth certificate, or government-issued document with your photo) and one residency document (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
  • Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts, and the list differs between states.
  • Bring the originals or certified copies—photocopies alone are usually not accepted.
  • You will need to pay a replacement fee, which ranges from about $15 to $50 depending on your state and ID type.
  • Processing time is typically one to two weeks for a standard replacement, though expedited options may be available for an extra fee.

Proof of identity documents that work

A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest proof of identity because it is federal and accepted everywhere. If you have one, bring it. A birth certificate works in every state, but it must be an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born—a photocopy or hospital record will not be accepted.

If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, most states accept a driver's license from another state, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a state ID from a different state. Some states also accept a school ID, employee ID, or professional license if it has your photo. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list for your location, because acceptance rules differ.

Proof of residency documents that work

A utility bill in your name is the easiest proof of residency. Electricity, gas, water, internet, or phone bills all work. The bill must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though some allow up to 90 days. If you do not have a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement works just as well.

Bank statements, credit card statements, insurance documents, and government letters (such as tax forms or benefit notices) also count in most states. Some states accept a notarized letter from a landlord or property manager if you rent and do not have a bill in your name. A few states accept a cell phone bill, though not all do. Again, check your state's list before you go.

What to bring and how to bring it

Bring the original documents or certified copies. Photocopies alone are not accepted. If your birth certificate is a certified copy, that is fine—you do not need the original. If your utility bill or lease is a photocopy because that is what your provider sent you, call ahead to ask whether your DMV accepts it, because some do and some do not.

Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get bent or damaged in transit. If any document is worn, faded, or hard to read, bring a certified replacement or a second document to back it up. Some DMVs photograph your documents as part of the process, so legibility matters.

Fees and processing time

Replacement ID fees range from about $15 to $50 depending on your state and the type of ID. Most states charge less for a standard ID than for a driver's license. Some states charge extra if you need a REAL ID-compliant card, which is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee before you go.

Standard processing usually takes one to two weeks. Some DMVs offer expedited processing for an extra fee—typically $10 to $25—that cuts the time to three to five business days. A few states offer same-day replacement at certain locations, but this is rare and usually costs more. Ask at your local DMV office what options are available.

Special situations: name changes and corrections

If your name has changed since your identity document was issued, bring proof of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. If your birth certificate has a misspelling or error, you will need to contact the vital records office in the state where you were born to request a corrected copy before you go to the DMV.

If you are replacing an ID because it was lost or stolen, some states require you to report it to the police first or sign a statement saying it was lost. Check your state's rules. If you are replacing an ID because it was damaged, bring the damaged card with you so the DMV can see the damage and process it as a replacement rather than a new issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You need an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. A hospital record or photocopy will not work. You can order a certified copy online or by mail from your state's vital records office, though it usually takes one to two weeks.

What if I do not have a utility bill in my name?

A lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance document with your current address works just as fine. If you rent and have none of these, some states accept a notarized letter from your landlord confirming your address. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask what documents they will take.

Do I need a REAL ID to get a replacement ID?

Not necessarily. A standard state ID works for most purposes. You only need a REAL ID-compliant card if you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings. Your state's DMV can issue either one. REAL ID costs a bit more and requires one extra document proving your Social Security number, such as a W-2 or Social Security card.

How long does a replacement ID take?

Standard processing takes one to two weeks in most states. Expedited options, if available, cost extra and take three to five business days. A few DMV locations offer same-day service, but this is uncommon. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to see what speed options are available in your area.

What if my address on my identity document is old?

That is fine. Your identity document (passport, birth certificate, or other proof of who you are) does not need to have your current address. That is why you bring a separate residency document. The identity document just needs to prove your name and identity.