What an identification card is and who needs one
An identification card is a government-issued photo ID that proves who you are. Unlike a driver's license, it does not give you permission to drive — it is purely for identification. You may need one to open a bank account, board a plane, vote, pick up prescriptions, or enter certain buildings. Some states call it a state ID card; others call it a non-driver ID.
You need an ID card if you do not drive, have lost your driving privileges, or prefer not to hold a driver's license. The card looks similar to a driver's license and contains your photo, name, date of birth, and address. It is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — the name varies by state.
The process is simpler than getting a driver's license because you skip the written test and driving test. You still need to prove your identity and residency, and the fee is usually lower.
Key Takeaways
- An identification card is issued by your state DMV and requires proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address, but no driving test.
- You will need to bring original documents — typically a birth certificate or passport, proof of address, and your Social Security card or number.
- Most states charge between $15 and $35 for an ID card, and processing takes one to three weeks for standard service.
- You can renew by mail in many states if your card is not expired or damaged, which saves a trip to the DMV.
- If you have lost your card or it was stolen, report it to your DMV and request a replacement with a new number.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV
Your state DMV will ask for three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address. Bring originals, not copies, because staff need to see them in person.
For proof of identity, bring one of these: a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. Some states also accept a school ID or military ID if it has your photo and signature. Call your DMV before you go to confirm which documents they take — rules vary by state.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub with your full number on it. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration.
For proof of current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. Post office mail forwarding notices do not count.
Steps to explore in person at the DMV
Visit your state DMV's website to find the office nearest you and check their hours. Many DMVs now use appointment systems — you can book a time slot online rather than waiting in line. Some states let you start the process online before you arrive, which speeds up the process.
Bring all three categories of documents listed above, plus your completed process form. read the form from your DMV website or pick one up when you arrive. Fill it out before you go if possible — this saves time at the counter.
At the DMV, a staff member will check your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. The photo is taken on the spot; you cannot bring your own. You will sign the back of your card before you leave. Ask whether your card will be mailed to you or ready for pickup — this varies by state.
Standard processing usually takes one to three weeks. Some states offer expedited service for an extra fee if you need the card sooner. Ask the staff member whether that option is available and what it costs.
Cost and processing time
An identification card costs between $15 and $35 depending on your state. Some states charge less for seniors or people with low income — ask the DMV staff whether you may have access to for a reduced fee. The fee is usually paid in cash or card at the DMV counter.
Standard processing takes one to three weeks from the date you explore. Your card will be mailed to the address you provided on your process. If you need it faster, some states offer rush processing for an additional $10 to $25, which cuts the time to five to ten business days. A few states have same-day service at certain locations, but this is rare and usually costs more.
Check your state DMV website for exact fees and timelines, because both vary. Some states also charge extra if you need a replacement card because yours was lost or stolen.
Renewing your identification card by mail or online
If your card is not expired and is not damaged, you can renew it without visiting the DMV in most states. Check your state DMV website to see whether mail renewal or online renewal is available.
For mail renewal, read the renewal form from your DMV website, fill it out, and mail it with your current ID card and the renewal fee. Include a new photo if your state requires one — some do, some do not. Mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks.
For online renewal, log into your state DMV account, answer questions about your current information, upload a new photo if required, and pay the fee by card. You will receive your new card by mail. This is faster than mail renewal — usually one to two weeks.
You cannot renew by mail or online if your card has expired for more than a certain period (usually one to five years, depending on your state), if it is damaged, or if your address has changed. In those cases, you must visit the DMV in person.
What to do if your card is lost or stolen
Report the loss or theft to your DMV as soon as possible. Call the DMV or visit their website to file a report. Some states let you report it online; others require a phone call or in-person visit. Reporting it prevents someone else from using your number.
Request a replacement card with a new ID number. You will need to visit the DMV in person or mail in a form, depending on your state's policy. Bring the same documents you brought for your original card — proof of identity, Social Security number, and address. The replacement fee is usually the same as a new card, though some states charge extra for a replacement.
If your card was stolen and you suspect identity theft, also contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This is separate from replacing your ID card but protects you from someone opening accounts in your name.
Identification card versus driver's license
An identification card and a driver's license are both government-issued photo IDs, but they serve different purposes. A driver's license proves you are allowed to drive; an ID card does not. Both are accepted for most identification purposes — boarding a plane, entering a federal building, opening a bank account, or voting.
An ID card is simpler and cheaper to obtain because you do not take a written test or driving test. The process process is faster, and the fee is lower. If you do not drive or have lost your driving privileges, an ID card is your main option for government-issued photo ID.
If you already have a driver's license, you do not need an ID card unless your license has expired and you do not plan to renew it. Some people carry both, but that is not necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an identification card if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a passport, naturalization certificate, or foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa instead. If you have none of these, contact your state DMV to ask what other documents they accept. Some states allow school records or baptism certificates in certain situations, but rules vary widely.
How long does an identification card stay valid?
Most states issue ID cards that are valid for four to eight years. Your card will show the expiration date on the front. Check your state DMV website for the exact validity period. You can renew before it expires by mail or online in most states.
What if my address changes after I get my card?
You can update your address with the DMV without getting a new card in some states — you just notify them of the change. In other states, you must get a replacement card with your new address. Contact your DMV to find out which applies to you. Some states let you update your address online.
Can I use an identification card to fly on a plane?
Yes. A state ID card is accepted as valid identification by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for domestic flights. You will need to bring it to the airport and show it at security. For international flights, you need a passport, not an ID card.
What if I was denied an identification card?
The DMV will tell you why your process was denied — usually because documents were missing, incomplete, or did not meet the state's requirements. Ask the staff member what you need to fix and whether you can reapply when ready or must wait. You can also contact your DMV by phone to ask about the denial before you return.