What to bring when you explore for a state ID

A state ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but most accept a birth certificate or passport for identity, a utility bill or lease for where you live, and your Social Security card or a tax document. You will also need to fill out an process form at your local DMV or ID office and pay a fee, which ranges from around $10 to $30 depending on your state.

The fastest way to find out what your state accepts is to visit your state's DMV website directly — search "[your state] DMV ID requirements" — because some states accept different documents than others. For example, some states take a bank statement for residency while others do not. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an ID in most states by bringing a letter from the Social Security Administration saying you applied, or by using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You need three types of documents: proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of where you live (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return).
  • Each state's DMV sets its own rules about which documents it accepts, so check your state's website before you go to avoid a wasted trip.
  • The process form is free, but the ID itself costs money — usually between $10 and $30 depending on your state.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or use an ITIN instead.
  • You can explore in person at your local DMV, and most states now let you renew by mail or online if you already have an ID.

Proof of identity documents that work

A birth certificate is the most common document people bring because most states accept it and it is hard to fake. It must be an official copy with a raised seal or security features — a photocopy does not count. You can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works in every state and proves both identity and citizenship. If you already have one, bring it. A foreign passport works for identity but not citizenship, so some states accept it and some do not — check first.

Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (if you were born to a U.S. citizen outside the country), a Certificate of Naturalization (if you became a citizen), or a Permanent Resident Card (green card). A few states take a military ID or tribal ID as identity proof. Driver's licenses from other states do not count as proof of identity for a first-time ID — they are what you are trying to get.

Proof of residency: what your state will accept

Most states want to see a document with your name and current address on it, dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the easiest because it has both and is hard to forge. A lease or rental agreement works if it is signed and shows your name and address. A mortgage statement or property tax bill also works if you own a home.

Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, a government benefits letter (from Social Security, unemployment, or SNAP), or a phone bill. A few states take a insurance policy (auto, home, or renters) or a letter from your employer on company letterhead with your name and address. Do not assume — check your state's list, because some states reject phone bills or bank statements.

If you do not have any document in your name, some states let you bring two documents together (like a lease in someone else's name plus a bank statement in yours) or a notarized letter from someone who lives with you confirming your address. A few states accept a letter from a homeless shelter or social services agency if you do not have a fixed address.

Proof of your Social Security number

Your Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you have lost it, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration website or by calling 1-800-772-1213. It takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

If you do not have your card, bring a tax return (Form 1040 or 1040-SR), a W-2 form from your employer, or a 1099 form if you are self-employed. These documents show your Social Security number and are hard to fake. A paystub from your current job also works in most states.

If you have never worked and do not have a tax return, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number. You can request one by visiting your local Social Security office or calling the number above. If you do not have a Social Security number at all, you can still get an ID — bring a letter saying you applied for one, or use an ITIN instead.

The process form and fees

When you arrive at your DMV or ID office, you will fill out an process form — usually called a Driver License or ID Card process or Form DL 44 (the name varies by state). The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, and other basic information. You do not need to fill it out ahead of time in most states, but some DMVs let you read and complete it before you go, which can speed things up.

The fee for a state ID card ranges from about $10 to $30 depending on your state and how long the ID is valid (usually 4 to 8 years). Some states charge less for seniors or people with low income — ask at the counter. You can usually pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. If you are renewing an ID you already have, the fee is often lower than getting one for the first time.

What happens after you submit your documents

The DMV will take your documents, take a photo of you, and give you a receipt with a number. Your ID will be mailed to the address on your process, usually within 1 to 3 weeks. Some states let you pick it up in person instead if you prefer. The receipt counts as proof of identity in the meantime if you need it for something urgent.

If the DMV rejects any of your documents, they will tell you what is missing and you can bring the correct document back. If you submitted a copy instead of an original, they may ask you to come back with the original. If your name has changed (through marriage, divorce, or legal change), bring a court order or marriage certificate showing the change.

Getting an ID without a birth certificate

If you do not have a birth certificate and cannot get one quickly, some states let you use other identity documents instead. A passport, Permanent Resident Card, Certificate of Naturalization, or military ID can work as your main identity proof in most states. A few states accept a school record or hospital record with your name and date of birth, though these are less common.

If you were born outside the United States and do not have a U.S. birth certificate, bring your foreign birth certificate (translated into English if needed) plus a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certificate of Naturalization if you have one. If you were adopted and your original birth certificate is sealed, bring your adoption decree or amended birth certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. The DMV needs an official copy with a raised seal or security features. You can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. It usually costs $10 to $25 and takes 1 to 2 weeks by mail.

What if my name on my documents does not match?

Bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If your name changed through marriage, a marriage certificate is enough. If it changed another way, you may need a legal name change document from the court.

Do I need to make an appointment at the DMV?

Many states now require appointments, while others work on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state's DMV website to see if you need to book ahead. Even if appointments are not required, going early in the morning usually means a shorter wait.

Can someone else pick up my ID for me?

Most states mail the ID to the address on your process, so you do not have to pick it up. If you want to pick it up in person instead, ask the DMV when you explore. Some states let a family member pick it up with a signed letter from you, but rules vary.

What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have a tax return?

Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office to request a replacement card or a letter confirming your number. You can also order a replacement online at ssa.gov. Bring whichever document you get to the DMV along with your other proof of identity and residency.