How to Get an Identification Card: State ID and Real ID Options

What You Need to Know About Getting an ID Card

An identification card is a government-issued document that proves who you are. Most states offer two main types: a standard state ID card and a Real ID card, which meets federal requirements for air travel and federal buildings. You get both from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency—the same place that issues driver's licenses. The process is similar whether you want a standard ID or Real ID, though Real ID requires extra documents and costs a bit more.

You do not need a driver's license to get an ID card. If you do not drive or your license has expired, an ID card serves the same purpose for identification. The main difference is that a Real ID card lets you board a domestic flight or enter a federal building without a passport, while a standard state ID does not.

Key Takeaways

You get an ID card from your state's DMV or equivalent agency, either in person or by mail depending on your state's rules.
A standard state ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number; a Real ID requires those plus additional documents like a birth certificate.
Real ID cards cost more than standard IDs and take longer to process, but they work for domestic air travel and federal building access.
Processing times vary by state—some take one to two weeks, others take several weeks—so check your state's DMV website for current wait times.
You will need to renew your ID card every few years; the renewal period depends on your state and your age.

Documents You Need for a Standard State ID

Bring three types of documents to your DMV appointment: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, a naturalization certificate, or a previous driver's license or ID card. If your name has changed since that document was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state. If you do not have a document in your name, some states accept a letter from a government agency, a school enrollment letter, or a statement from a shelter or social services agency.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be prepared to state the number at your appointment. If you do not have a Social Security number, ask your DMV whether you can get an ID without one—rules vary by state.

Extra Documents Required for Real ID

A Real ID card requires everything listed above, plus two additional documents. First, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or a valid passport. Second, bring a document showing your current legal name and date of birth—this can be a valid passport, a naturalization certificate, or a consular report of birth abroad.

If your name has changed, bring the document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your birth certificate. Some states also require a second proof of residency for Real ID, so check your state's DMV website before you go. The extra documents and processing add one to two weeks to the timeline compared to a standard ID.

how the process works at Your DMV

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and finding the office nearest you. Many states let you schedule an appointment online; some still operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Scheduling ahead usually cuts your wait time from hours to 15 or 20 minutes. Bring all required documents in originals or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, and bring a pen to fill out forms.

At your appointment, a DMV staff member will check your documents, ask you to sign a form, and take your photograph and fingerprints. You will pay the fee at this point—standard IDs usually cost $15 to $30, while Real IDs cost $5 to $15 more. Ask whether your state offers mail-in renewal once your first card arrives, because many do.

After you leave, your card will be mailed to the address you provided. Processing times range from one to two weeks in fast states to four to six weeks in slower ones. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times, because they change with demand.

What to Do If You Have Lost Documents

If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually takes one to three weeks and costs $10 to $30. If you were born outside the United States, contact the embassy or consulate of your birth country to request a birth certificate or equivalent document.

If you have changed your name and cannot find your marriage certificate or divorce decree, contact the courthouse in the county where the marriage or divorce took place. Court records are public, and staff can provide a certified copy for a small fee. If you do not have a Social Security card, visit your nearest Social Security office with your birth certificate and photo ID to request a replacement.

Some states allow you to explore for an ID without all documents if you explain the situation in writing. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask whether you can proceed with what you have, or whether you must wait until you have gathered everything.

Renewing Your ID Card

ID cards expire every four to eight years depending on your state and your age. You will receive a notice in the mail before your card expires. Most states let you renew by mail if your address has not changed and you do not need to update your photograph. Mail-in renewal is faster and cheaper than in-person renewal—usually $10 to $20 and one to two weeks.

If you need to update your photograph, change your address, or correct your name, you must renew in person at your DMV. Bring the same documents you brought for your first ID, plus your expiring ID card. If your ID has been lost or stolen, report it to your DMV and explore for a replacement in person.

Real ID important date and Travel Requirements

As of May 2025, a Real ID card is required to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. If you have a valid passport, you can use that instead of a Real ID card for air travel. If you have a standard state ID, you will need to bring a passport or other federal document to the airport.

Real ID is not required for driving, voting, or entering most state buildings. It is only required for federal purposes. If you fly domestically once a year or less, a standard ID with a passport may be simpler than upgrading to Real ID. If you fly often or work in a federal building, Real ID saves you from carrying a passport every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can order a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This takes one to three weeks. Some states may let you explore with other documents while you wait for your birth certificate—call your DMV to ask. If you were born outside the United States, contact your birth country's embassy or consulate.

How long does it take to get an ID card?

Processing times vary by state. Most states take one to two weeks for a standard ID and two to four weeks for a Real ID. Some states are slower during peak times like summer. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times before you explore.

What if my address changes after I get my ID card?

You can update your address by mail in most states without renewing your card. Visit your state's DMV website to see whether you can change your address online or by mail. If you cannot, you will need to renew your card in person at your DMV.

Do I need a Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A valid passport works for domestic air travel and federal building access. You only need a Real ID if you want to use your ID card instead of a passport for these purposes. A standard state ID is fine for driving and everyday identification.

Can I get an ID card by mail?

You must explore in person at your DMV for your first ID card because they need to photograph you and take your fingerprints. Renewal by mail is available in most states if your information has not changed. Check your state's DMV website to see whether mail renewal is an option for you.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.