What You Need to Do to Get a State ID
A state ID is a government-issued photo identification card that proves who you are. Unlike a driver's license, it does not give you permission to drive—it is purely for identification. You get one by visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, bringing required documents, and paying a fee. The whole process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes in person, though some states now offer online pre-process or mail-in renewal for people who already have an ID.
The exact documents you need, the fee amount, and how long it takes vary by state. This guide walks you through the general steps and what to expect at each one.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your state's DMV office in person for your first state ID, bringing proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
- Acceptable identity documents include a birth certificate, passport, or previous driver's license—the DMV website for your state lists exactly which ones they accept.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address; it must be dated within the last 60 days in most states.
- State ID fees range from $10 to $30 depending on where you live, and most states offer a reduced or free ID for seniors and people with disabilities.
- Bring your Social Security card or a document with your full Social Security number, as the DMV will verify it before issuing your ID.
Gather Your Documents Before You Go
The DMV will not issue an ID without specific paperwork. You need three categories: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Showing up without these means a wasted trip.
Proof of identity means an official document with your name and date of birth. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, or previous driver's license all work. Some states also accept a tribal ID, military discharge papers, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list—it differs by state.
Proof of residency must show your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works in most states. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. If you live with someone else, a letter from the homeowner or landlord confirming you live there can work, though some states require the bill to be in your name.
Proof of your Social Security number is usually your Social Security card itself. If you do not have the card, bring a document that shows the number—a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form. The DMV will verify the number with the Social Security Administration before printing your ID.
Find Your Local DMV Office and Check Hours
Go to your state's DMV website and search for the office nearest you. Most states let you find locations, hours, and phone numbers online. Some DMVs are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. A few states now let you book an appointment online, which can cut your wait time from an hour to 15 minutes.
Call ahead if you are unsure whether you have the right documents. Many DMVs have a phone line where you can ask what you need to bring. If your state offers online appointment booking, use it—walk-in lines can be very long, especially on Fridays and at the start of the month.
If you live in a rural area far from a DMV office, some states send mobile DMV units to smaller towns on a rotating schedule. Check your state's website to see if one comes near you.
Complete the process Form
Most states let you fill out the state ID process online before you go, or you can fill it out at the DMV. The form asks for your full legal name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and whether you want to register to vote or donate organs. Some states also ask about your height, eye color, and distinguishing marks.
If you fill it out online ahead of time, print it and bring it with you. If you fill it out at the DMV, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to have time to complete it. Bring a pen—the DMV usually has them, but it is faster if you bring your own.
Make sure your name on the form matches your birth certificate or passport exactly. If your legal name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, bring the document that proves the change. The DMV will not issue an ID if the name does not match your identity documents.
Pay the Fee and Get Your Photo Taken
State ID fees range from about $10 to $30, depending on your state and how long you want the ID to be valid. Most state IDs are valid for 4 to 8 years. Some states charge less for a shorter validity period. Bring cash or a debit card—not all DMVs accept credit cards, though most do now.
After you pay, a DMV employee will take your photo. Wear something you do not mind seeing on an ID for the next several years. You can usually wear glasses if you wear them regularly, but not sunglasses. Avoid hats unless you wear them for religious reasons. The photo will be taken against a plain background, and you will not be able to retake it if you do not like how it looks.
If you are over 65 or have a disability that makes standing difficult, tell the DMV staff when you arrive. Many offices have accommodations like chairs or a shorter line.
Receive Your ID and Know When It Arrives
Some states print your ID on the spot and hand it to you before you leave. Others mail it to your address within 7 to 14 business days. Check with the DMV employee after you pay—they will tell you which applies in your state.
If your state mails the ID, you will get a receipt that shows your ID number. Keep this receipt until the ID arrives. If the ID does not arrive within the timeframe the DMV gave you, call the DMV with your receipt number and they can check the status.
Once your ID arrives, check that all the information is correct—your name, date of birth, address, and ID number. If something is wrong, go back to the DMV with the ID and your receipt. Corrections are usually free.
What to Do If You Lost Your ID or It Was Stolen
If your state ID is lost or stolen, go to the DMV and ask for a replacement. You will need to show your identity documents again, just as you did for your first ID. The fee for a replacement is usually the same as a new ID, though some states charge slightly less. The DMV will cancel your old ID number so it cannot be used.
If your ID was stolen and you are worried about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This is free and makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name. You can do this online on each bureau's website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a state ID if I do not have a birth certificate?
Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, previous driver's license, or other government-issued ID as proof of identity. Some states also accept a tribal ID or military discharge papers. Check your state's DMV website for the complete list of documents they will accept.
How much does a state ID cost?
State ID fees range from about $10 to $30, depending on your state and how long the ID is valid. Most states offer reduced or free IDs for people over 65 and people with disabilities. Call your local DMV or check the website to find out the exact fee in your state.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You will need a Social Security number to get a state ID in most states. If you do not have one, you can explore for one through the Social Security Administration. Visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to learn how the process works. The process takes a few weeks, so plan ahead.
Can I renew my state ID by mail or online?
Some states let you renew by mail or online if your ID is not expired and your information has not changed. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available. If you need to update your address or other information, you will usually have to visit the DMV in person.
How long does it take to get a state ID?
If your state prints IDs on the spot, you will have it before you leave the DMV. If your state mails IDs, it usually takes 7 to 14 business days. Some states take longer during busy times. The DMV employee will tell you the timeframe when you explore.