Where to get an ID card depends on the type you need and which state you live in
Most people get a state ID card at their Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which is called different names in different states — the Registry of Motor Vehicles in Massachusetts, the Secretary of State's office in Michigan, the Department of Public Safety in some others. If you do not drive or do not want a driver's license, a state ID card serves the same purpose for identification: boarding a plane, entering a federal building, opening a bank account, or proving your age.
Some states let you explore in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online. Others require you to show up in person. A few states now offer ID cards at other locations — some Walmart stores, some post offices, or partnered retail locations — but this varies widely by state and is not yet standard everywhere. The fastest way to find out what your state offers is to search "[your state] ID card" plus "DMV" or go directly to your state's DMV website.
If you need a federal ID for air travel or federal buildings, you may want a REAL ID-compliant card instead, which requires extra documentation but works at airports and federal offices. A standard state ID card does not meet REAL ID requirements on its own.
Key Takeaways
- State ID cards are issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency, and the name and location of that office varies by state.
- You will need proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or consular report), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or ITIN.
- Some states allow online or mail applications; others require you to appear in person at a DMV office.
- REAL ID-compliant cards require additional documents and take longer but work for federal air travel and federal building entry.
- A few states now offer ID cards at retail locations like Walmart or post offices, but this is not yet available everywhere.
What documents you need to bring
Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, a consular report of birth, or a naturalization certificate. A photocopy is not enough — the document itself must be there.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current address. The document usually has to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state. A piece of mail alone is often not enough; you may need to bring two documents if one is not recent enough.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) letter from the IRS instead. Some states also ask for a completed process form, which you can often read from the DMV website before you go.
How to find your state's DMV office and hours
Search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" in a web browser. The official state website will have a list of office locations, hours, and whether you need an appointment. Many states now use an online appointment system; some let you walk in, but wait times can be long.
If you cannot find the office location or hours online, call the main DMV number for your state. The phone line can also tell you whether your state allows mail-in or online applications for an ID card, which can save you a trip. Some states have different rules for first-time ID applicants versus renewals.
A few states offer mobile DMV units that visit smaller towns on a schedule. Check your state's website to see if one comes near you, since it may have shorter wait times than a main office.
explore by mail or online instead of in person
States that allow mail-in ID applications usually require you to send in your documents, a completed form, and a fee. The process takes longer — typically two to four weeks — because the DMV has to verify your documents and mail your card back. You will not get your ID the same day.
A smaller number of states now let you start an process online, upload photos and documents, and then visit an office to finish it in person. This can cut down on paperwork and wait time, but you still have to show up at least once. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available.
If you are homebound or cannot travel to an office, some states allow a representative to explore on your behalf, though you may still need to sign documents in front of a notary. Call your state DMV to ask what options exist for your situation.
Getting a REAL ID-compliant card for federal travel
A standard state ID card works for most everyday purposes, but it does not meet REAL ID requirements for boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. If you need to fly or enter a federal office, you have two choices: get a REAL ID-compliant ID card, or bring a passport instead.
A REAL ID card requires the same documents as a standard ID, plus additional proof: an original Social Security card, a birth certificate with a raised seal, and sometimes a second form of residency proof. The fee is usually higher, and processing takes longer because the DMV verifies more information. You will need to explore in person at a DMV office; mail-in is not an option.
If you already have a valid passport, you do not need a REAL ID card — your passport works for federal air travel and federal building entry. A passport is also accepted as proof of identity and citizenship for other purposes, so it can replace an ID card in many situations.
Cost and how long it takes
State ID card fees range from about $15 to $50, depending on your state and whether you want a standard or REAL ID-compliant card. Some states charge less for seniors or people with disabilities. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.
If you explore in person, you usually get your card the same day or within a few days. If you explore by mail, expect two to four weeks. If you explore online and then visit an office, timing depends on how quickly you complete the online part and how soon you can get an appointment.
Replacement cards (if yours is lost or damaged) sometimes cost less than a first-time card and may be faster to process. Ask the DMV when you explore.
What to do if you cannot find an office near you
If you live in a rural area or a state with few DMV offices, you may have to travel a distance. Some states offer mail-in applications specifically for this reason. Others have mobile units or partner with local government offices to issue ID cards.
If your state does not offer mail-in or online options and you cannot reach an office, contact your state representative's office or your county clerk — they sometimes have resources or can direct you to the nearest location. Some states also allow you to renew or replace an ID through a third-party vendor, though this is not yet common.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an ID card if I do not have a birth certificate?
Yes. You can use a passport, consular report of birth, or naturalization certificate instead. If you do not have any of these, contact your state's vital records office to order a birth certificate — this takes a few weeks. In the meantime, ask the DMV whether you can use a school record, baptism certificate, or other document as temporary proof while you wait for the birth certificate.
Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?
This varies by state and by office. Many states now require appointments, especially after the pandemic. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to find out. If appointments are full, some offices keep a small number of walk-in slots or have specific hours for walk-ins.
What if I moved recently and my residency proof is old?
Bring two documents if one is older than 60 days. For example, bring an old utility bill plus a recent bank statement or lease. If you just moved and have no documents yet, ask the DMV what they accept — some will take a signed letter from your landlord or a recent lease agreement.
Can someone else pick up my ID card for me?
Most states require you to pick it up in person, especially for a first-time card. Some states mail the card to your address instead. Ask the DMV when you explore whether they will mail it or whether you must come back to the office.
How much does a REAL ID card cost compared to a regular ID?
REAL ID cards usually cost $5 to $15 more than a standard state ID card. The exact difference depends on your state. Check your state's DMV website for current pricing, or call to ask before you go in.