Texas ID card fees in 2024

A Texas identification card costs $16 for a standard card that is valid for six years. If you need a Real ID-compliant card — one that meets federal standards for air travel and federal building access — the cost is $27 for the same six-year validity period. Both prices are the same whether you are getting your first card or renewing an expired one.

The Texas Department of Public Safety sets these fees. You pay at the time you submit your process at a DPS office or an authorized county tax assessor-collector's office. Most locations accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card, though payment methods can vary by location.

If you need your card faster than the standard processing time, Texas offers expedited service. An expedited standard ID costs $32, and an expedited Real ID costs $42. Expedited cards are typically ready within five to seven business days instead of the standard two to three weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard Texas ID card costs $16 and is valid for six years; a Real ID-compliant card costs $27 for the same period.
  • Expedited processing costs an additional $16 for a standard card or $15 for a Real ID and takes five to seven business days.
  • You pay the fee in person at a DPS office or county tax assessor-collector's office when you submit your process.
  • Replacement cards for lost, stolen, or damaged IDs cost the same as a new card and follow the same processing timelines.

When you need a Real ID versus a standard card

A standard Texas ID card works for most everyday purposes: proving your identity to a bank, showing age at a store, or opening a utility account. A Real ID card is required only if you plan to fly domestically within the United States or enter a federal building that requires it. If you rarely fly or do not need federal building access, a standard card is sufficient and costs $11 less.

Real ID cards have a gold star in the upper right corner. They require additional documentation during the process process — typically a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency — but the card itself looks similar to a standard ID. The extra cost covers the background check and verification that Real ID requires.

What happens if you lose or damage your card

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas ID card costs the same as getting a new one: $16 for standard or $27 for Real ID. You do not pay an extra replacement fee. When you explore for a replacement, bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and a form of identification if you have one. If your card was stolen, you can report it to DPS at the time you explore for the replacement.

If you need the replacement quickly, expedited processing is available at the same additional cost ($16 or $15 depending on card type). Processing time for a replacement is the same as for a new card.

Where to pay and what payment methods are accepted

You pay for your Texas ID card in person at one of two types of locations: a DPS Driver License office or a county tax assessor-collector's office. DPS offices are located in most major cities and handle all ID services. County tax assessor-collector offices in your county also issue ID cards and may be closer to your home.

Most offices accept cash, debit card, and credit card. Some smaller county offices may accept check or money order as well. Call ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific location, especially if you plan to pay by check. You cannot pay online or by mail — payment must happen in person at the time you submit your process.

How long processing takes and what it costs

Standard processing for a Texas ID card takes two to three weeks from the date you submit your process. During that time, DPS verifies your information and produces your card. You will receive it by mail at the address you provided on your process.

If you need your card sooner, expedited processing shortens the timeline to five to seven business days and costs an extra $16 for a standard card or $15 for a Real ID. Expedited cards are also mailed to you; they do not get picked up in person. The expedited fee is in addition to the base card fee, so an expedited standard ID costs $32 total and an expedited Real ID costs $42 total.

Renewal fees and how often you pay

A Texas ID card is valid for six years. When it expires, you renew it by explore for a new card and paying the same fee: $16 for standard or $27 for Real ID. There is no separate renewal fee or discount for renewing an existing card. You can renew your card up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the expiration date to explore.

If your card is still valid and you want to change your address, photograph, or other information, you can request a replacement card instead of waiting for expiration. A replacement for a change of information costs the same as renewal: $16 or $27 depending on the card type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay extra if I need my card for a specific reason?

No. The fee is the same regardless of why you need the card. The only way to pay more is to choose expedited processing, which costs an extra $16 for standard or $15 for Real ID and takes five to seven business days instead of two to three weeks.

Can I pay online or by mail?

No. You must pay in person at a DPS office or county tax assessor-collector's office when you submit your process. Payment methods accepted vary by location but typically include cash, debit card, and credit card.

What if I cannot afford the $16 or $27 fee right now?

Texas does not offer fee waivers or payment plans for ID cards. If cost is a barrier, contact your local DPS office or county tax assessor-collector to ask whether they know of any community resources or information programs in your area.

Is the fee the same if I am renewing versus getting my first card?

Yes. Renewal, replacement, and new cards all cost the same: $16 for standard or $27 for Real ID. There is no discount for renewing an existing card.