When you can get your first ID

You can get a state ID card at different ages depending on what kind of ID you need and which state you live in. Most states let you get a standard ID card at age 16, though some allow it as early as age 13 or 14. A few states require you to be 18. The age rules also depend on whether a parent or guardian needs to sign off, and whether you're getting a regular ID or a REAL ID-compliant card (which has stricter federal requirements).

If you're under 18, you'll almost always need a parent or legal guardian to come with you to the DMV and sign consent forms. Some states let minors explore online or by mail with a parent's signature, but most require an in-person visit. The documents you'll need are similar at any age — a birth certificate, proof of residency, and a Social Security number — but the process moves faster if you know what your state specifically asks for before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states issue ID cards to people age 16 and up, though the exact age varies by state and some allow it at 13 or 14.
  • If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you to the DMV and sign a consent form in person.
  • You'll need a birth certificate, proof of where you live, and your Social Security number, regardless of your age.
  • REAL ID cards have a federal star and cost more, but are required for air travel and federal building access after May 2025.
  • Check your state's DMV website before you go, because age rules and required documents vary significantly by state.

ID requirements for minors under 18

When you're under 18, your parent or legal guardian is responsible for getting you an ID. They need to come to the DMV with you in person — most states do not let minors explore alone, even with written permission. Your parent will sign a consent form, and the DMV will verify their identity before issuing your card.

Some states have different rules for teens close to 18. A few allow 16- and 17-year-olds to renew their own ID without a parent present, but only if they already have an ID and are just updating it. If you're getting your first ID, expect to bring a parent no matter your age under 18.

The documents you need are the same ones adults bring: an original or certified birth certificate, a document showing your current address (like a utility bill or lease in your parent's name), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, a W-2, or a tax return). Some states also ask for a second form of ID, like a school ID or passport. Check your state DMV's website before you go — the list varies.

Standard ID versus REAL ID cards

A standard state ID card costs less and works for everyday purposes like proving your age or identity to a store or employer. A REAL ID card has a small gold or gold-colored star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. As of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID card to board a domestic airplane or enter a federal building like a courthouse or military base.

Both types are available to minors, and the age requirements are the same. The main difference is that REAL ID requires extra documents to prove your identity and residency — typically a passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate, plus a document with your address on it. The fee is usually a few dollars higher than a standard ID.

If you're not sure whether you need REAL ID yet, a standard ID is fine for now. You can upgrade to REAL ID later when you need it for travel or federal access. Many people get a standard ID as a minor and switch to REAL ID when they turn 18 or when they first need to fly.

How to get an ID before you turn 16

Some states let you get an ID younger than 16, but the rules are strict. A handful of states issue ID cards to people as young as 13 or 14, usually only if you can show a specific reason — like needing it for school, work, or travel. You'll still need a parent or guardian to come with you and sign consent forms.

If your state allows early ID issuance, contact your local DMV office directly to ask what reason they accept and what extra documents you might need. Some states require a letter from your school or employer, or a travel itinerary if you're getting the ID for a trip. Do not assume your state offers this — many do not, and the only way to know is to ask.

Documents you'll need at any age

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy or a birth certificate from a hospital does not count. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization.

Bring proof of your current address. This can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name (or your parent's name if you're a minor). A school ID or library card usually does not count as address proof. The document should be dated within the last 60 days, though some states allow older documents.

Bring your Social Security number. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2, a tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an ID in most states, but the process takes longer and you may need extra documents.

Bring a second form of ID if your state asks for it. This might be a school ID, passport, passport card, or even a work ID. Check your state's DMV website to see if this is required.

What happens when you turn 18

When you turn 18, you can renew or replace your ID without a parent's permission. You can go to the DMV alone and handle everything yourself. If your ID is still valid and you do not need to change anything, you can wait until it expires to renew it — most state IDs are valid for 4 to 8 years depending on the state.

If you want to upgrade from a standard ID to a REAL ID at 18, you can do that at your next renewal or any time before you need it for travel. Bring the same documents you brought for your first ID, plus your current ID card.

Finding your state's specific rules

Every state sets its own age requirements and document rules. The fastest way to find out what your state requires is to visit your state's DMV website directly. Search for "[your state] DMV ID card age requirement" or "[your state] DMV minor ID." Most state DMV sites have a checklist of documents and a section specifically for minors.

If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office. They can tell you the exact age your state allows, what documents you need, whether a parent has to come in person, and how long the process takes. Many DMVs also let you make an appointment online, which can save you time waiting in line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID if I don't have a birth certificate?

Most states require an original or certified birth certificate, but some allow alternatives like a passport, passport card, or Certificate of Naturalization. A few states have a process for people who cannot find their birth certificate — you may need to order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Call your DMV to ask what they accept.

Does my parent have to be my biological parent?

No. A legal guardian, adoptive parent, or court-appointed guardian can sign consent forms for a minor's ID. Bring a document proving guardianship, like an adoption certificate or court order. If you're in foster care, your caseworker or foster parent can usually sign on your behalf.

What if I lost my ID or it was stolen?

You can replace it at the DMV. If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian. You'll need to bring your birth certificate and proof of address again, and you may need to fill out a form saying the ID was lost or stolen. The replacement usually costs less than a new ID and takes the same amount of time.

Can I get an ID online or by mail?

A few states let you renew an ID by mail if it's not expired and you're not changing your address or name. Getting your first ID almost always requires an in-person visit to the DMV. Some states let you start the process online, but you still have to go in person to have your photo taken and sign documents.

How long does it take to get an ID?

If you have all your documents and go in person, you can usually get a standard ID the same day or within a few days. REAL ID cards sometimes take longer because the DMV has to verify more information — this can be 1 to 2 weeks. Processing times vary by state and how busy your local DMV is.