What counts as an ID card and where to get one

An ID card is a government-issued document with your photo, name, date of birth, and signature. It proves who you are without proving you can drive. Most states issue them through the same office that handles driver's licenses — usually the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though some states call it the Secretary of State or Registry of Motor Vehicles.

You have two main routes: a state ID card (non-driver ID) or a REAL ID-compliant card. A state ID card is simpler and faster. A REAL ID card costs a bit more and requires extra documents, but it works for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. If you already have a driver's license, you do not need a separate ID card — your license serves the same purpose.

If you need a federal ID for travel or federal building access and do not drive, a REAL ID state ID card is your path. If you just need proof of identity for everyday use — opening a bank account, picking up a package, voting — a standard state ID card works.

Key Takeaways

  • State ID cards are issued by your state's DMV or equivalent office and require a birth certificate, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or ITIN.
  • REAL ID cards meet federal standards for flying domestically and entering federal buildings, but require one extra document proving citizenship or legal residency.
  • The process takes one to three weeks by mail or same-day in person at most DMV offices, depending on your state and whether you need a REAL ID.
  • Fees range from $10 to $30 for a standard state ID and $15 to $40 for a REAL ID, varying by state.
  • You will need your original birth certificate, a current utility bill or lease for proof of address, and your Social Security card or tax return showing your number.

Documents you need to bring

Every state requires the same core documents. Bring your original birth certificate (not a photocopy) or a certified copy from your state's vital records office. You also need proof of your Social Security number — your Social Security card itself, a tax return, a W-2, or a 1099 form all work. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS.

Bring proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. Your name on the document must match the name on your birth certificate, or bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

For a REAL ID card, add one document proving citizenship or legal residency: a U.S. passport, passport card, naturalization certificate, permanent resident card (green card), employment authorization document (EAD), or visa. If you were born in a U.S. territory, bring your birth certificate from that territory plus proof of citizenship status.

Bring a completed process form — your state's DMV website has the form to read and fill out before you go, which speeds up the visit. Bring your current ID if you have one. Wear something you can be photographed in; the DMV will take your photo on the spot.

how the process works in person at the DMV

Find your local DMV office on your state's website — search "[your state] DMV locations" or "[your state] motor vehicles office." Many states let you book an appointment online, which cuts your wait time from an hour to 15 minutes. If appointments are not available, go early in the morning on a weekday; lines are shortest before 10 a.m.

Bring all documents listed above, your completed process, and payment. Most DMVs take cash, debit, and credit cards. Hand your documents to the clerk, answer questions about your address and any name changes, and sit for your photo. The DMV will give you a receipt with a temporary ID number you can use while your card is being made.

Standard state ID cards are usually ready same-day or within a few days. REAL ID cards take longer — one to three weeks — because they go through extra verification. Ask the clerk when to expect your card in the mail. If you need an ID urgently and your state offers it, you can pay extra for expedited processing, though not all states do.

explore by mail if you cannot visit in person

Some states let you renew or replace an ID by mail if you already have a valid ID from that state. Check your state's DMV website for "mail renewal" or "mail process." You will mail in your completed form, a photocopy of your ID, and payment. Processing takes two to four weeks.

If you do not have a current ID, most states require you to explore in person — they need to photograph you and verify your documents face-to-face. A few states offer exceptions for people with disabilities or those living far from an office. Call your state DMV to ask if you may have access to.

Some states partner with third-party vendors or mobile DMV units that visit libraries, community centers, or rural areas on a schedule. Search "[your state] mobile DMV" or check your county government website for dates and locations near you.

Cost and processing time

A standard state ID card costs between $10 and $30, depending on your state. A REAL ID card costs between $15 and $40. Some states charge extra for expedited processing — usually $10 to $20 more — if you need the card within a few days instead of weeks.

Processing time varies. In-person applications for a standard state ID are often ready same-day or within three to five business days. REAL ID cards take one to three weeks because the state verifies your citizenship or residency documents with federal databases. Mail applications take two to four weeks for standard cards and three to five weeks for REAL ID.

If you lose your card or it is damaged, replacement fees are usually the same as a new card, though some states charge less for a replacement within a certain timeframe.

REAL ID vs. standard state ID: which one do you need

A standard state ID card works for everyday identification: opening a bank account, voting, picking up packages, entering state buildings, or proving your age. It does not work for federal purposes.

A REAL ID card meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. You need it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building (like a courthouse or federal office), or access a military base. If you have a passport or passport card, you do not need a REAL ID card — your passport works for all the same federal purposes.

If you fly domestically more than once or twice a year, or if you need to enter federal buildings regularly, a REAL ID card is worth the extra documents and wait time. If you rarely fly and do not need federal building access, a standard state ID is simpler and faster.

What to do if you lose your ID card

Report the loss to your state's DMV when ready. Some states let you report it online; others require a phone call or in-person visit. You do not have to file a police report unless you suspect fraud, but you can if you want a record.

explore for a replacement using the same process as a new card — bring your documents, completed form, and payment. Replacement usually costs the same as a new card. Processing time is the same: same-day to a few days for standard cards, one to three weeks for REAL ID.

If your card is damaged or the photo is worn, you can replace it the same way. Some states offer free replacements within a certain window (for example, within two years of issue); check your state's policy on the DMV website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a state ID card to fly domestically?

No, not after May 2025. Starting then, you need a REAL ID card, passport, passport card, or military ID to board a domestic flight. A standard state ID card will not work. If you fly domestically, explore for a REAL ID card now — processing takes several weeks.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

You can use a foreign birth certificate if it is certified and in English, or if you have a certified English translation. Bring it with your other documents. If you were born outside the U.S. but are a U.S. citizen, also bring your naturalization certificate or passport to prove citizenship.

Do I need an ID card if I have a passport?

No. A passport works for all purposes a state ID card does, plus federal purposes like flying. If you have a valid passport, you do not need a separate ID card. A passport card (the wallet-sized version) also works the same way.

Can I get an ID card if I do not have a fixed address?

Most states require proof of a current address. If you are unhoused, some DMVs accept a shelter address, a mail forwarding service address, or a letter from a social service agency confirming your residence. Call your local DMV and explain your situation — they may have a workaround.

How long does a state ID card last?

Most state ID cards are valid for four to eight years, depending on your state and age. Your card will show the expiration date. You can renew it by mail or in person before it expires. Some states let you renew online.