What to bring when you explore for a state ID

You need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but most states accept a birth certificate or passport for identity, a recent utility bill or lease for where you live, and your Social Security card or a tax return that shows your number. You'll also need to fill out your state's ID process form, which you can get at your local DMV office or read from your state's DMV website.

Some states let you mail in your process with copies of these documents, but most require you to appear in person at a DMV office so they can verify your identity and take your photo. Bring the originals of your documents — photocopies alone won't work for the initial proof, though some states will accept copies of certain documents if you show the original at your appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring 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).
  • Most states require you to explore in person at a DMV office so they can photograph you and verify your documents are real.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents that office accepts, because requirements differ between states.
  • Processing time ranges from same-day for a temporary ID to two to four weeks for a mailed card, depending on your state and which office you visit.

Proof of identity documents that DMVs accept

A birth certificate is the most common document people bring. It must be an official copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — a photocopy or a hospital-issued certificate won't work. You can order an official copy online through your state's vital records office, by mail, or sometimes in person at your county courthouse.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works as proof of identity and is often faster because you don't have to order it separately. If you already have a passport, bring it. If you don't, getting one takes four to six weeks through the State Department, so a birth certificate is usually quicker for a first ID.

Some states accept a driver's license from another state, a tribal ID, a military ID, or a permanent resident card (green card) as proof of identity. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents your specific office takes.

Proof of residency: what counts and what doesn't

A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the easiest proof that you live where you say you do. It must be recent, usually from the last 30 to 60 days. A lease or rental agreement with your name and current address also works. If you own your home, a property tax bill or mortgage statement serves the same purpose.

Bank statements, insurance bills, and government mail (like a tax return or Social Security statement) can work in some states but not others. A few states accept a letter from a shelter, a school enrollment form, or a court document that shows your address. Your state's DMV website will list which documents that office accepts.

Documents with an old address won't work, and neither will mail addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant." If you've recently moved and don't have a bill in your new name yet, ask the DMV which documents they'll accept — some will take a lease, a move-in inspection, or a notarized letter from your landlord.

Proof of your Social Security number

Your Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you don't have it, a tax return (federal or state) that shows your number, a W-2 form from an employer, or a 1099 form all work. You can also bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number — you can request one by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting ssa.gov.

Some states accept a birth certificate that includes your Social Security number, though most birth certificates don't. If you were born outside the U.S., you may need to bring your green card or visa along with your Social Security card or tax document.

The process form and fees

Your state's DMV office provides the process form — usually called an "process for Identification Card" or similar. You can pick one up at the DMV, read it from your state's website, or fill it out on a computer at the office itself. The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number.

Most states charge between $15 and $30 for a state ID card. Some states offer free or reduced-cost IDs for people over 65 or under 18. A few states waive the fee if you're homeless or in a shelter. Bring cash or a debit card — not all DMV offices accept credit cards.

When you need to appear in person versus by mail

Nearly all states require you to appear at a DMV office in person for your first ID so they can photograph you and check that your documents are genuine. A few states let you mail in your process if you're renewing an ID you already have, but even then, you usually had to appear in person for the original.

If you're unable to visit a DMV office because of a disability or medical condition, some states will send someone to your home or allow a representative to explore on your behalf. Call your local DMV office or check their website to ask about accommodations.

How long it takes and what you get

If you explore in person, most DMV offices issue a temporary paper ID on the spot that you can use right away. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail in two to four weeks, though some states take longer. A few states mail the card within a week if you pay an extra fee for expedited processing.

Keep your temporary ID until the plastic card arrives. Once it does, the temporary one is no longer valid. If your card doesn't arrive within the timeframe your state gave you, contact the DMV office where you applied — they can check the status and reissue it if it was lost in the mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring the official certified copy from your state's vital records office. A hospital birth certificate or photocopy won't work. Order an official copy online or by mail from the vital records office in the state where you were born — it usually arrives in one to two weeks.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You cannot get a state ID without a Social Security number. If you don't have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration first. Visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to start the process. This can take several weeks.

Do I need to bring my original documents or can I bring copies?

Bring the originals. The DMV staff need to see them to verify they're real. Some states will accept a copy of one document if you show the original of another, but policies vary — call your local DMV office to ask what they'll take.

What if I'm homeless and don't have a proof of residency?

Most states waive the residency requirement for people experiencing homelessness. Bring a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a nonprofit that confirms where you're staying. Some states accept a statement from a friend or family member. Call your DMV office to ask what they'll accept in your situation.

Can someone else pick up my ID card if I can't go to the DMV?

Most states require you to appear in person to get your ID. Some allow a family member or authorized representative to pick up your card once it arrives, but you still have to explore yourself at the office. A few states let a representative explore on your behalf if you have a disability — ask your local DMV office what they allow.