Where to get your ID card and what to bring

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency issues ID cards. You do not need a driver's license to get one — an ID card is a separate document that proves your identity and age. You can walk into your local DMV office, explore by mail in some states, or use an online portal to start the process before you visit in person.

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax document with your number on it, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works). You will also need to bring a completed process form — your DMV website has the form you need for your state, and staff can help you fill it out if you arrive without one.

If you have changed your name since your birth certificate was issued, bring the legal document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you do not have a birth certificate, ask your DMV what alternative documents they accept — some states take a passport, naturalization papers, or a consular report of birth abroad.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV issues ID cards, and you can visit in person, explore by mail, or start online depending on your state's process.
  • Bring your birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of address, and a completed process form to your appointment.
  • The fee varies by state but typically ranges from $15 to $50 for a standard ID card valid for four to eight years.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks if you explore in person; mail applications take longer and vary by state.
  • If you lost your ID card, you can replace it at the DMV with proof of your identity and a replacement fee, which is usually lower than the original fee.

What the process form asks for

The form your DMV provides asks for your full legal name, date of birth, current address, and Social Security number. You will also answer questions about your height, eye color, and any distinguishing marks — the DMV uses these details to prevent fraud and help identify you if your card is lost.

Some states ask whether you want to register to vote at the same time. This is optional and does not affect your ID card. A few states also ask about organ donation; again, this is your choice and does not hold up your card if you decline.

Fees and how long it takes

ID card fees vary by state. Most states charge between $15 and $50 for a standard card. Some states offer a reduced fee for seniors or people with disabilities — ask at your DMV office or check your state's DMV website to see if you may have access to for a discount.

If you explore in person at a DMV office, you usually receive your card within one to two weeks by mail. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee if you need the card sooner. If you explore by mail, add one to two weeks to the processing time, depending on how long mail takes in your area and how busy your DMV is.

Bringing a minor or explore on someone else's behalf

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you to the DMV. Bring the same documents you would bring for yourself, plus a document showing the guardian's relationship to you — a birth certificate, custody order, or adoption papers.

If you are explore on behalf of someone else who cannot go to the DMV — for example, an elderly parent or someone with a disability — ask your DMV whether they allow a representative to explore. Some states do; others require the person to appear in person. Call your local DMV office to ask what documents you will need to bring and whether a power of attorney or guardianship papers are required.

What to do if you do not have a birth certificate

If you were born in the United States but do not have your birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. That office is usually part of the state health department. Search "[your state] vital records" online to find the office's website and mailing address.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport, a consular report of birth abroad, or naturalization papers. If you do not have any of these, ask your DMV what documents they will accept — some states have a process for people without standard identity documents, though it may take longer.

Replacing a lost or damaged ID card

If your ID card is lost, stolen, or damaged, go to your DMV office with proof of your identity — your passport, a recent utility bill with your name and address, or another government-issued ID if you have one. You will fill out a replacement form, pay a replacement fee (usually $10 to $25, less than the original fee), and receive a new card by mail within one to two weeks.

If your card was stolen, some states ask you to report it to the police first, though this is not always required. Call your DMV office to ask whether a police report is needed before you visit.

Using your ID card for travel and other purposes

A state ID card is accepted as proof of identity for domestic air travel, entering federal buildings, and opening a bank account. It is not accepted for international travel — you need a passport for that. Some employers and schools accept it as proof of identity when you start a job or enroll; others ask for a passport or other document. Ask your employer or school what they need before you explore.

If you need your ID card for a specific purpose — travel, employment, housing — check with that organization first to make sure a state ID card is what they want. Some ask for a passport, a Real ID-compliant driver's license, or another form of identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID card without a Social Security number?

This varies by state. Some states issue ID cards to people without a Social Security number if they bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other proof of identity. Call your local DMV office to ask what documents they accept if you do not have a Social Security number.

How long is an ID card valid?

Most states issue ID cards valid for four to eight years, depending on your age. Your DMV will tell you the expiration date when you receive your card. You can renew it by mail or in person before it expires; some states let you renew online.

What if I have changed my address since I got my ID card?

You can update your address at the DMV without getting a new card — bring your current ID card and proof of your new address. Some states let you update your address online or by mail. Check your state's DMV website to see which method is fastest for you.

Do I need an ID card if I have a driver's license?

No. A driver's license serves the same purpose as an ID card for most situations. You only need a separate ID card if you do not drive or if your driver's license has expired and you need a current form of identification.

Can I get an ID card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

This depends on your state and immigration status. Some states issue ID cards to people with a valid visa or work permit; others require proof of legal residency. Call your DMV office to ask what documents you need to bring if you are not a U.S. citizen.