Documents Required for a State ID Card

To get a state identification card, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your address, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but most states follow the same general pattern. You do not need a driver's license to get an ID card — they are separate documents, and an ID card does not let you drive.

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency (sometimes called the Secretary of State's office) issues ID cards. You will visit in person, bring your documents, have your photo taken, and pay a fee. The card arrives by mail within one to three weeks in most states.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving who you are, one proving where you live, and one proving your Social Security number — originals or certified copies, not photocopies.
  • A passport, birth certificate, or driver's license counts as identity proof; a utility bill or lease counts as address proof; a Social Security card or tax return counts as SSN proof.
  • You must appear in person at your state's DMV or ID-issuing office and bring the original documents — you cannot mail them in advance.
  • State ID cards cost between $10 and $30 depending on where you live and how long you want the card to be valid.
  • If you do not have one of the required documents, your state DMV website lists alternative documents that work for that category.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your state needs one document that proves who you are. A passport, birth certificate, driver's license, or military ID all work. If you have a passport, bring it — it is the easiest proof because it has your photo and signature. A birth certificate works even if it is old and worn, as long as the state seal is visible and your name is legible.

If you do not have any of those, some states accept a school ID, tribal ID, consular ID, or employment ID with your photo. A few states also accept a marriage certificate or divorce decree if your name changed. Check your state's DMV website for the full list — each state publishes which documents count as proof of identity.

The document must be an original or a certified copy. A photocopy will not work. If your birth certificate is a photocopy, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — that usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail.

Proof of Address Documents

Your state needs one document showing where you currently live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work. The document must show your name and your current address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days in most states — older bills do not count.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease, some states accept a bank statement, insurance policy, government benefit letter, paystub, or mail from a government agency. A few states accept a letter from a shelter or social services agency if you are unhoused. Again, check your state's list — the rules vary.

The document must be an original. A photocopy is usually not accepted, but some states allow it if you also bring the original to show the DMV worker. Call your local DMV office before you go if you are unsure whether your document will work.

Proof of Social Security Number

Your state needs one document proving your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the simplest — bring the original. If you have lost your card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration website or by calling 1-800-772-1213. A replacement card takes about two weeks and is free.

If you do not have your Social Security card, most states accept a tax return, W-2 form, 1099 form, or benefit letter from Social Security, unemployment, or another government program. These documents must show your full name and your complete Social Security number. A paystub with your SSN also works in many states.

Bring the original document. A photocopy usually will not work on its own, though some states allow it if you also show the original.

What to Bring to the DMV

Gather all three documents — identity, address, and SSN proof — before you go. Bring the originals unless your state specifically allows photocopies. Bring your completed process form if your state requires you to fill it out in advance; most states let you fill it out at the office instead. Bring cash or a debit card to pay the fee.

Bring your current driver's license if you have one, even though you are getting an ID card instead. Some states use it to check your driving record. If you have changed your name since your identity document was issued, bring proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Without it, the DMV may issue the card under your old name.

Do not bring photocopies unless your state's website says they are acceptable. Do not bring documents older than 60 days for address proof. Do not assume your documents will work — if you are uncertain, call your local DMV office the day before you go and describe what you have.

Cost and Processing Time

State ID cards cost between $10 and $30, depending on your state and how long you want the card to be valid. A card valid for four years usually costs less than one valid for eight years. Some states offer reduced fees for seniors or people with low income — ask at the DMV. You pay when you explore, not when you pick up the card.

The card arrives by mail within one to three weeks in most states. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee — usually $10 to $20 more — if you need the card faster. A few states let you pick up the card in person the same day or within a few days, but this is rare. Check your state's DMV website to see what your state offers.

If You Are Missing a Document

If you do not have one of the three required documents, your state DMV website lists alternative documents that work for that category. For example, if you do not have a birth certificate, you might be able to use a school ID or employment ID instead. If you do not have a recent utility bill, you might be able to use a bank statement or insurance policy.

If you do not have any documents in a category, you will need to obtain one before you can get an ID card. For identity proof, order a birth certificate or passport. For address proof, ask a utility company to send you a recent bill, or ask your landlord for a copy of your lease. For SSN proof, order a replacement Social Security card or request a benefit letter from Social Security.

Some states have programs to help people without documents. Call your local DMV office or visit your state's DMV website to ask what options are available in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID card if I do not have a Social Security number?

This varies by state. Some states issue ID cards to people without a Social Security number, using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Other states require a Social Security number. Contact your state's DMV office to ask whether you can get an ID card without one.

What if my address on my identity document is different from where I live now?

Bring both your old identity document and a new address proof document. The DMV will issue the card with your current address. You do not need to update your identity document first.

Do I need to make an appointment at the DMV?

Many states now require appointments, but some still accept walk-ins. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you need to book a time slot. If appointments are required and none are available, some states have a waitlist or let you try a different office location.

Can someone else pick up my ID card for me?

No. Most states mail the card directly to your address, so you do not need to pick it up. If your state allows in-person pickup, you must go yourself — the DMV will ask for your signature or ID to verify you are the person the card belongs to.

What if I lost my ID card after I got it?

You can order a replacement at the DMV. Bring your identity and address proof documents again, pay a replacement fee (usually $5 to $15), and the new card will arrive by mail within one to three weeks.