What You Need Before You Walk In

Getting a new ID requires you to bring proof of who you are, proof of where you live, and proof of your citizenship or legal residency status. The exact documents depend on which state you live in and which type of ID you want — a driver's license, state ID card, or both. Most states will not issue an ID without at least one document from each category, and some require more.

You will also need to bring the completed process form for your state, which you can usually read from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or pick up in person. Some states let you fill it out online before you arrive. Bring the original documents, not copies — the DMV staff will verify them and hand them back to you.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or similar), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal status to get a new ID in most states.
  • Each state has its own list of acceptable documents, so check your state DMV website before you go to avoid a wasted trip.
  • You must bring original documents, not photocopies, and you will get them back after the DMV verifies them.
  • If you have changed your name, you will need a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree to prove the change.
  • Fees vary by state and type of ID, ranging from roughly $15 to $50 for a standard ID card or driver's license.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your state will accept one or more of these to prove who you are: a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or an existing driver's license or ID card from another state. Some states also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or school ID issued by a public school or college, though rules vary.

If you do not have any of these, some states will accept a combination of documents with your name on them — such as a Social Security card plus a utility bill, or a pay stub plus a bank statement. Check your state DMV website for the full list, because what counts as proof of identity differs from state to state.

If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, you will need to bring the original or a certified copy. A photocopy will not work. If you were born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, bring your Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240) or your Certificate of Citizenship.

Proof of Residency Documents

You need a document showing your current address. Most states accept a recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. The document usually must be dated within the last 30 to 90 days, depending on your state.

If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your name yet, some states will accept a letter from your landlord or a notarized statement saying you live there. A few states accept mail from a government agency addressed to you at your new address. Call your local DMV office to ask what they will take if you do not have a standard utility bill.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them saying you live there, plus the utility bill. Some states require this letter to be notarized; others do not.

Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency

To get a standard driver's license or ID card, you must prove you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Bring your U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Permanent Resident Card) or your I-797 approval notice.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may still be able to get a limited-term ID or driver's license in some states, depending on your immigration status. These IDs are usually marked as temporary and have a shorter expiration date. Contact your state DMV to learn what documents you need and whether you are may be able to access for a limited-term ID.

Name Change Documents

If you have changed your name since your birth certificate was issued, bring proof of the change. This can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for name change, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or a certified copy — a photocopy will not work.

If you were married and took your spouse's last name, bring your marriage certificate. If you were divorced and changed your name back, bring the divorce decree showing your new name. If you changed your name through the court, bring the court order. Some states also accept a religious document, such as a certificate from a church or synagogue, if it shows your name change and is certified by the organization.

Social Security Number and Other Information

You will need to provide your Social Security number on the process form. If you do not have a Social Security number, some states will issue an ID without one, but you should call ahead to confirm. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though most states do not require you to show it — they verify the number through the Social Security Administration.

You will also need to provide your date of birth, height, eye color, and signature. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, bring them with you so the vision test is accurate. Some states require you to bring a recent photo if you cannot have one taken at the DMV office.

Fees and Payment

The cost of a new ID varies by state and type. A standard state ID card typically costs between $15 and $35. A driver's license usually costs between $25 and $50. Some states charge extra for a REAL ID-compliant card, which meets federal standards for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee.

Most DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some accept checks. A few states require exact change or only accept certain payment methods, so call ahead if you want to be sure. If you cannot pay the full fee, ask whether your state offers a fee waiver or reduction based on income.

What Happens If You Are Missing a Document

If you do not have one of the required documents, do not go to the DMV yet. Instead, contact your state DMV office by phone or through their website and explain what you have. They can tell you whether you can substitute a different document or whether you need to get the missing document first.

If you need a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to four weeks and costs $10 to $30. If you need a passport, you can explore at a passport acceptance facility or post office; processing takes several weeks unless you pay for expedited service. Plan ahead so you do not delay your ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a new ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

It depends on your state. Some states will accept a passport, naturalization certificate, or a combination of other documents with your name on them. Call your state DMV to ask what documents they will take instead of a birth certificate. If you do not have any of these, you may need to order a birth certificate first, which takes one to four weeks.

Do I need an original document or can I bring a copy?

You must bring the original document or a certified copy. The DMV staff will verify it and return it to you. A photocopy made at home will not work. If you have a certified copy, bring that instead of waiting for the original.

What if my name on my documents does not match?

Bring all the documents that show your name changes — for example, your birth certificate with your original name, plus your marriage certificate showing your new name. The DMV will use these to create your ID with your current legal name. If the names do not match in a way the DMV can explain, they may ask you to get a court order for a name change.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DMV to get a new ID. You will need to sign the process and pass a vision test. Some states allow a parent or guardian to sign for minors, but the minor must still be present.

How long does it take to get a new ID after I explore?

If you pass all the checks and your documents are in order, you usually get your ID card the same day or within a few days. Some states mail it to you within one to two weeks. If there is a problem with your documents or process, it may take longer. Ask the DMV staff for an estimate when you explore.