How to Get a State ID in Texas

What You Need to Know Before You Go

A Texas state ID is issued by the Department of Public Safety and works as a photo identification card when you do not have a driver's license. You can get one in person at any DPS office across the state. The process takes about 15 minutes, costs $16 for a standard card (or $32 for a Real ID-compliant card), and you walk out with your ID the same day.

You will need to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Texas accepts a range of documents for each category, so you likely have what you need already. The main difference between a standard state ID and a Real ID is that the Real ID version meets federal requirements for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights — but a standard state ID still works for most everyday purposes like banking, voting, and buying age-restricted items.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity, Texas residency, and your Social Security number to get a state ID.
A standard state ID costs $16 and a Real ID-compliant card costs $32; both are issued the same day.
Acceptable identity documents include a passport, birth certificate, or previous driver's license; acceptable residency documents include utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements dated within 90 days.
You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, but checking your local office's website first can save you a trip if they are temporarily closed.
If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and provide their own ID.

Documents You Must Bring

Texas requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You need at least one document from each category. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid or expired U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate (with a raised seal), a previous Texas driver's license or ID card, a military ID, a consular report of birth abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. If your name has changed since the document was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

For proof of residency, bring one document dated within the last 90 days showing your current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a government check. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you live with someone else and do not have a bill in your name, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus their ID, can substitute.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a state ID, but you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

Standard ID Versus Real ID

Both cards look similar and work for most identification needs. The main difference is what they are accepted for under federal law. A standard state ID works for voting, banking, buying alcohol or tobacco, entering state buildings, and proving your identity to police. It does not meet federal requirements for boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings like courthouses or military bases.

A Real ID-compliant card meets federal standards and works for all of the above plus boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities. It has a small gold star in the upper right corner. The Real ID costs $16 more ($32 instead of $16) and requires the same documents, plus you must bring your original Social Security card or a certified copy of your birth certificate — the proof of residency and identity documents alone are not enough for Real ID.

If you are not sure which one you need, a standard state ID is fine for most people. You can always upgrade to a Real ID later by returning to a DPS office with the additional documents.

Where to Go and What to Expect

You must explore in person at a DPS Driver License office. Texas has offices in most cities and counties. To find the one nearest you, go to the DPS website, select your county, and you will see the address, hours, and phone number. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. A few offices are temporarily closed, so checking the website before you go saves a wasted trip.

You do not need an appointment at most offices — you walk in, take a number, and wait. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning and mid-week visits are usually faster than afternoons or Saturdays. Bring all your documents in a folder so you do not lose anything while waiting.

When you reach the window, the clerk will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. The photo is taken on the spot, so wear something you are comfortable being photographed in. You will be asked to sign the back of your card before you leave. Your ID is ready to use when ready — you do not have to wait for it to arrive in the mail.

If You Are Under 18

A parent or legal guardian must be present when you explore. They must bring their own photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID). The parent or guardian does not need to bring additional documents — their ID alone is enough to verify their identity. You still need to bring your own proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number as listed above.

If only one parent has custody, bring the custody papers. If both parents have custody but only one can attend, bring a notarized letter from the absent parent giving permission. The DPS office can tell you exactly what form they need if you call ahead.

Name Changes and Corrections

If your name on your documents does not match, bring proof of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is acceptable. If your name is misspelled on your birth certificate or another document, bring the original document plus a corrected certified copy from the issuing agency — the DPS office cannot correct errors on documents you bring in.

If you need to correct information on a state ID you already have (such as a wrong address or misspelled name), you can return to any DPS office with your current ID and the correct documents. There is usually no fee for corrections made within a certain time frame, but call your local office to confirm.

Cost and Payment

A standard state ID costs $16. A Real ID-compliant card costs $32. These are the only fees — there is no process fee or processing fee on top. DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may have ATMs on site if you need cash, but do not count on it — bring your payment method with you.

If you are a Texas resident over 60, the state ID is free. If you are homeless, you may be able to use a shelter address as your residency address — call your local DPS office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Texas state ID last?

A standard state ID is valid for 6 years. A Real ID-compliant card is valid for 8 years. You can renew by mail or in person before it expires. The DPS will mail you a renewal notice about 45 days before your card expires.

Can I get a state ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. You can use a passport, military ID, or previous driver's license instead. If you do not have any of those, you can request a certified birth certificate from the Texas Vital Statistics office or the state where you were born. That process takes a few weeks and costs money, so it is worth checking what other documents you have first.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them?

You can request certified copies. A birth certificate comes from the Vital Statistics office in the state where you were born. A Social Security card can be replaced by visiting your local Social Security office or explore online at ssa.gov. A utility bill or bank statement can be requested from the company. These replacements take time and sometimes cost money, so start early if you know you will need them.

Can I renew my state ID by mail?

Yes, if your card is not expired and you have not changed your name or address. The DPS will send you a renewal form in the mail about 45 days before your card expires. You can also renew online at the DPS website if you have a Real ID card. If anything has changed, you must renew in person at a DPS office.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You can get a state ID if you are a lawful permanent resident or have a valid visa. Bring your passport and immigration documents (such as a green card or visa) along with your other proof of identity and residency. Call your local DPS office first to confirm they have seen your type of immigration document before, so you do not make a wasted trip.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.