The Documents Required for a State ID

To get a state identification card, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your address, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but most states follow the same basic pattern. You cannot complete the process without at least one document from each category.

You will also need to appear in person at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office — you cannot get a state ID by mail or online. Bring the originals of your documents, not copies. The staff will verify them and return them to you after your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving who you are, one proving where you live, and one proving your Social Security number — originals only, not copies.
  • A birth certificate or passport counts as proof of identity in all states; a driver's license from another state also works in most places.
  • A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days proves your current address in nearly every state.
  • Your Social Security card itself is the easiest proof, but a W-2 form, tax return, or bank statement with your SSN also works.
  • You must visit the DMV in person with original documents; the whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your proof of identity must show your full name and date of birth. A U.S. birth certificate is accepted in every state and is the most common choice. A U.S. passport or passport card works everywhere. If you have a driver's license from another state, that also counts as proof of identity in most states.

If you were born outside the United States, a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) serves as proof of identity. Some states also accept a Tribal ID card or a military ID. Check your state's DMV website to confirm which documents they accept, since a few states have different rules.

Do not bring a photocopy of your birth certificate. The DMV staff must see the original. If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office before your DMV visit — this usually takes one to two weeks.

Proof of Address Documents

Your proof of address must show your current street address and be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the easiest option and is accepted everywhere. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's insurance policy.

The document must have your name and full street address printed on it. A P.O. box does not count as a street address. If you recently moved and do not have a bill in your new name yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address, or bring two documents that together show your move — such as an old bill and a lease signed at your new address.

Bring the original document. The DMV will not accept a screenshot or photocopy of a utility bill or bank statement, though some states now allow you to show the document on your phone if it displays your full name and address clearly.

Proof of Social Security Number

The simplest proof of your Social Security number is your Social Security card itself. If you have it, bring it. If you do not have your card, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return from the past two years shows your full SSN and is accepted in all states.

A bank statement or credit card statement that displays your full Social Security number also works. Some states accept a paystub or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you have never worked and do not have a Social Security card, you will need to explore for one at your local Social Security office before you can get a state ID.

Bring the original document. If you are worried about carrying your Social Security card, you can leave it at home and bring a tax return or bank statement instead — the DMV only needs to verify that you have a valid number.

Additional Items to Bring

Bring your completed process form, which you can read from your state's DMV website or fill out at the office. Most states also require you to bring proof of your legal name if it differs from your birth certificate — such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have changed your name, bring the original document showing the change.

Bring cash or a debit card to pay the ID fee. State ID fees range from about $15 to $50 depending on your state and how long you want the card to be valid. Some states charge less for seniors or people with low incomes — ask at the DMV window.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They will need to show their own ID and sign your process. If you are explore on behalf of someone else, bring a power of attorney document or guardianship papers.

What Happens at the DMV

Arrive at your local DMV office during business hours. Take a number or check in at the front desk. The staff will call you to a window, where they will ask you to show your documents. They will verify each one and may ask you questions to confirm your identity.

You will be asked to sign your process and sit for a photo. The photo will appear on your ID card. You will also be asked to provide your signature, which will be scanned onto the card. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Your state ID card will be mailed to your address within one to three weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee. Ask the DMV staff how long it will take in your state and whether you need a temporary ID while you wait.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not bring photocopies or screenshots instead of originals. The DMV must see the actual documents. Do not assume your documents are current — check the dates on your utility bills and other address proofs. A bill from four months ago will not work.

Do not go to the DMV without all three types of documents. If you are missing one, the staff will turn you away and you will have wasted a trip. Check your state's DMV website before you go to confirm which specific documents they accept, since rules vary slightly.

Do not bring a P.O. box as your address. The DMV requires a street address where mail can be delivered. If you live in a shelter or do not have a permanent address, ask the DMV staff what documents they will accept — many states have options for people in this situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport as proof of identity and address at the same time?

No. A passport shows your identity and date of birth, but it does not show your current street address. You still need a separate document like a utility bill or lease to prove where you live now.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You cannot get a state ID without a Social Security number. You will need to explore for one at your local Social Security Administration office first. Bring your birth certificate and proof of identity. The process takes about two weeks.

Can someone else pick up my ID card for me?

Most states mail the ID card directly to your address, so you do not need to pick it up. If your state allows in-person pickup, you can authorize someone else to collect it by signing a form at the DMV. Call your local DMV to ask about their pickup policy.

Do I need an original birth certificate or will a certified copy work?

A certified copy of your birth certificate works just as well as the original. A certified copy has an official seal from the vital records office and is considered an original document by the DMV. A photocopy of either one will not work.

What if my address on my lease does not match my utility bill?

Bring both documents. The DMV will see that you recently moved and will accept whichever one shows your current address. If both show different addresses, ask your utility company or landlord for a letter on their letterhead confirming your current address.