What a state ID card is and who needs one

A state ID card is a government-issued photo identification document that proves who you are. Unlike a driver's license, it does not give you permission to drive—it is straightforward an ID. You need one if you do not have a driver's license but still need to show your identity to banks, employers, airlines, or police. Some states call it a "non-driver ID" or "identification card."

You can get a state ID at any age. Children, teenagers, and adults without a driver's license can all hold one. The card looks similar to a driver's license and contains your photo, name, date of birth, and address.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore for a state ID at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency—the name varies by state.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of address (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number.
  • The cost ranges from free to around $30 depending on your state and whether you are a senior or low-income resident.
  • Processing takes one to four weeks by mail, or you can walk out the same day if you visit in person and bring all required documents.
  • If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office before explore for the ID.

Where to explore for a state ID in your state

The agency that issues state IDs varies by state. Most states handle it through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Some states call it the Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or Department of Public Safety. Search "[your state] state ID" or "[your state] non-driver ID" to find the exact office and website.

Once you find the right office, you can usually explore in one of three ways: in person at a local office, by mail, or online. In-person is fastest if you have all your documents ready—you can often leave with your ID the same day or within a few days. By mail takes one to four weeks. Some states now let you start the process online and finish it in person, which saves time.

Check your state's website for the nearest office location, hours, and whether you need to book an appointment. Many states now require appointments to reduce wait times.

Documents you will need to bring

Every state requires proof of three things: your identity, your address, and your Social Security number. The exact documents accepted vary, but here is what most states take:

Proof of identity: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or naturalization papers. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate from that country. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office (usually run by the health department) before you explore for the ID.

Proof of address: A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. The document must be recent—usually from the last 30 to 90 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask the DMV what they accept; some states allow a shelter letter or a statement from a social worker.

Proof of Social Security number: Your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration.

Bring the originals or certified copies, not photocopies. Some states also ask for a completed process form, which you can read from their website or fill out at the office.

Cost and fees

State ID fees range from free to around $30, depending on your state and your age or income. Many states offer free or reduced-cost IDs for seniors (usually age 65 and older) and low-income residents. A few states charge nothing at all. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and whether you may have access to for a discount.

If you explore by mail, you may need to pay by check or money order. If you explore in person, most offices take cash, card, or both. Ask ahead if you are unsure.

What to do if you do not have a birth certificate

If you were born in the United States, you can order a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This is usually part of the state health department. Search "[your birth state] vital records" to find the office and process process. You can usually order online, by mail, or in person. It costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks.

If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate from that country. If you do not have either, contact the embassy or consulate of your birth country for help getting a certified copy.

Once you have your birth certificate, you can explore for the state ID using the steps above.

How long it takes and what happens next

If you explore in person with all your documents, you usually leave with a temporary ID the same day or within a few days. The permanent card arrives by mail in one to four weeks. If you explore by mail, the whole process takes two to six weeks.

After you submit your process, the DMV will verify your documents and run a background check. If everything checks out, they will issue your ID. If something is missing or unclear, they will contact you—usually by phone or mail—and ask you to send more information or come back in person.

Once your ID arrives, check it for errors. If your name, date of birth, or address is wrong, contact the DMV right away to request a correction. Most states correct errors for free if you catch them within a certain time frame.

Renewing or replacing your state ID

State IDs are usually valid for four to eight years, depending on your state and age. When it is about to expire, your state will mail you a renewal notice. You can renew by mail, in person, or online—the process is simpler than the first process because the DMV already has your information on file.

If your ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at the DMV. Bring your process form and proof of identity. Replacement usually costs less than a new ID and takes one to three weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a state ID to fly on an airplane?

Yes. A state ID is an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights in the United States. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) recognizes it as valid ID. For international travel, you will need a passport instead.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You will need to explore for a Social Security number first through the Social Security Administration. You can do this online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Bring proof of identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. Once you have a number, you can explore for the state ID.

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

It depends on your state and immigration status. Some states issue IDs to permanent residents and certain visa holders. Others require U.S. citizenship. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask what documents you need. Bring your passport and any immigration documents you have.

Do I need an appointment to explore in person?

Many states now require appointments to reduce wait times. Check your state's DMV website to see if appointments are required in your area. If they are, you can usually book online or by phone. If appointments are not required, you can walk in, but expect to wait longer during busy hours.

What if I moved and my address changed?

You can update your address at the DMV without getting a new ID. Bring your current ID and proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease). The DMV will update your record, and you may receive a corrected ID by mail. Some states do this for free; others charge a small fee.