Where to go and what to bring

You replace an ID card at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency — the name varies by state. Some states let you renew or replace by mail or online if your card is not expired by more than a certain number of years; others require you to appear in person. Check your state's DMV website first to see which route is open to you, because showing up without the right documents wastes a trip.

Bring a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or existing driver's license), proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or card. Some states also ask for a birth certificate or certified copy. The exact list is on your state's DMV site under "ID card replacement" or "state ID renewal." If you are replacing a lost or stolen card, bring a police report number if you have one — not all states require it, but it speeds things up.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV or Secretary of State office handles ID card replacement, and the process and fees differ by state.
  • You will need a government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or card before you go.
  • Some states let you replace by mail or online; others require you to appear in person and have your photo taken.
  • Replacement usually takes two to four weeks by mail, or you can get a temporary ID on the spot if you go in person.
  • Fees range from $10 to $30 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or replacing a lost card.

In-person replacement and temporary IDs

If you go to a DMV office in person, bring all documents listed above plus a completed process form — read it from your state's website or fill it out at the office. You will have your photo taken, pay the replacement fee, and receive a receipt. Most states give you a temporary ID on paper that you can use right away while your permanent card is being made.

The temporary ID is valid for 30 to 60 days, depending on your state. It works for most purposes — boarding a domestic flight, opening a bank account, or proving your age — but some businesses or government offices may not accept it. Ask the DMV clerk what the temporary ID covers in your state before you leave.

Mail-in and online replacement

States that allow mail-in replacement usually require your existing ID card to be less than 10 years old and not expired by more than five years. You fill out an process, include a new photo (either a passport-style photo you provide or a digital upload), and mail everything to the address on your state's DMV website. Processing takes two to four weeks.

A few states now offer online replacement through their DMV portal. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, upload a photo, pay the fee by card, and your new ID arrives by mail. This route is fastest if your state offers it, but it is not yet available everywhere. Check your state DMV website to see if online replacement is an option for you.

Fees and processing times

Replacement fees range from $10 to $30 depending on whether you are renewing an expired card or replacing a lost or stolen one. Some states charge more for a lost card because it requires a police report or affidavit. A few states waive the fee if you are replacing a card lost due to theft, provided you bring a police report number.

In-person replacement with a temporary ID takes minutes at the counter. Your permanent card arrives by mail in two to four weeks. Mail-in replacement takes the full two to four weeks. If you need an ID urgently and your state does not offer temporary IDs, ask the DMV clerk if you can get a notarized affidavit stating your identity — some employers and banks accept this as a stopgap.

Lost, stolen, or damaged cards

If your card was stolen, file a police report and bring the report number to the DMV. If it was lost, you do not always need a report, but calling the police non-emergency line and getting a report number can speed up replacement and protects you if someone uses the card fraudulently. Bring the report number with you or include it in your mail-in process.

If your card is damaged but still readable, some states let you exchange it for a replacement at no cost. If it is unreadable or the photo is faded, you will likely pay the standard replacement fee. Ask the DMV clerk whether damage qualifies for a free exchange before you pay.

What to do if you do not have all documents

If you do not have a birth certificate or cannot get proof of address quickly, call your state DMV before you go. Some offices accept alternative documents — a lease, mortgage statement, or letter from a government agency on letterhead can work as proof of address. For a birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from your state's vital records office, which usually takes one to two weeks and costs $15 to $30.

If you do not have a Social Security card, bring your number written down or a tax return or W-2 that shows it. If you do not know your number, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement card — that process takes two to four weeks on its own, so plan ahead if you need both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement ID card without going to the DMV?

Some states allow mail-in or online replacement if your card is not too old or expired. Check your state DMV website to see which methods are available. If your state requires in-person replacement, you must go to a DMV office.

How long does a replacement ID card take?

In-person replacement gives you a temporary ID on the spot, with your permanent card arriving in two to four weeks. Mail-in replacement takes the full two to four weeks. A few states offer expedited processing for an extra fee.

What if I moved and my address on the ID is wrong?

You can update your address at the same time you replace your card. Bring proof of your new address and fill out the address change section of the process. There is usually no extra fee.

Do I need a police report to replace a lost ID card?

Not always, but filing a report protects you if someone uses the card fraudulently. Some states charge a higher fee for lost cards without a report. Call your state DMV to ask whether a report is required in your case.

Can someone else pick up my replacement ID card?

Most states mail replacement cards directly to your address, so no one else needs to pick it up. If you ordered a temporary ID in person, you received it at the office. Check your state DMV website for rules on who can collect a card if you need someone else to do it.