Where to get an ID depends on your state and the type of ID you need

Most people get a state ID or driver's license from their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though the office may have a different name in your state — it might be called the Secretary of State, Department of Licensing, or Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Some states let you explore by mail or online for a standard ID card, but you will usually need to visit in person at least once, and you must bring specific documents. The location closest to you is almost always a local DMV branch office, not a central headquarters.

If you need an ID quickly and your state's DMV has long wait times, some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, or you can visit an office in a less busy area. A few states partner with other agencies — like the Secretary of State's office or even some county courthouses — to issue IDs, so you may have more than one place to go.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or its equivalent) is the main place to get a state ID card, and you can find your local branch on your state's official website.
  • You will need to bring documents that prove your identity, date of birth, and address — typically a birth certificate, Social Security card, and a utility bill or lease.
  • Most states require you to appear in person, though some allow you to renew by mail or online if you already have an ID.
  • Processing times vary by state and location, but standard ID cards usually take one to two weeks; expedited options cost more and take a few days.
  • Some states let you explore online first to skip the paperwork line, then visit only to take your photo and pay the fee.

Finding your state's DMV office and hours

Start by searching "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" — the official state website will have a list of all branch locations, hours, and sometimes a way to book an appointment. Many states now require or strongly recommend scheduling ahead, especially after the pandemic. If your state's website does not show appointment availability, call the main DMV phone line (usually listed on the homepage) to ask whether walk-ins are accepted at your nearest branch.

If the closest DMV has a long wait or is far away, check whether other branches in your region have shorter hours or less traffic. Some people find that visiting a DMV in a smaller town or a less busy time of day (early morning, Tuesday through Thursday) means a much shorter wait. A few states let you transfer your appointment to a different location if you find one with earlier availability.

Documents you need to bring

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of date of birth, and proof of your current address. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the standard list is a birth certificate (or passport), a Social Security card, and a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your name and address. Some states accept a driver's license from another state as proof of identity if you are renewing rather than getting your first ID.

Check your state's DMV website for the full list before you go — some states accept a wider range of documents (like a school ID or a pay stub), while others are stricter. Bring originals, not copies, unless the website specifically says copies are acceptable. If you do not have a Social Security card, you can bring a Social Security statement from ssa.gov, a W-2 form, or a tax return instead.

If your address is different from what is on your birth certificate or other identity documents, bring something that shows you have moved — a lease, utility bill, or letter from a government agency all work. If you have changed your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

What happens when you arrive at the DMV

When you walk in, you will usually take a number or check in at a kiosk, then wait for your turn. The staff member will check your documents, ask you questions to verify your information, and may ask about your address and whether you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive (if you are getting a license rather than just an ID card). They will take your photo and fingerprints, then tell you when your ID will arrive.

Standard processing usually takes one to two weeks by mail. Some states offer a temporary paper ID you can use right away while you wait for the card. If you need the ID sooner, ask about expedited processing — this typically costs $10 to $30 extra and takes three to five business days instead.

Online and mail-in options in some states

A growing number of states let you start the process online or by mail if you already have a valid ID from that state. You fill out the form, upload photos of your documents, and then visit the DMV only to take your photo and pay the fee — this cuts the visit down to 15 minutes or so. A few states (like Arizona and some others) now let you renew a standard ID entirely by mail if you meet certain conditions.

If your state offers online pre-process, use it — it saves time on the day you visit. Search "[your state] DMV online services" or "[your state] DMV renew online" to see what is available. Even if you cannot complete the whole process online, you may be able to fill out the form ahead of time and bring it with you, which speeds things up.

Getting an ID if you do not have a birth certificate

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the state or county where you were born. Contact the vital records office in that state (search "[state name] vital records" or "[state name] birth certificate") and request a certified copy. This usually costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail, though some states offer rush processing. Once you have it, you can use it to get your state ID.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad instead of a birth certificate. If you cannot locate your birth certificate and do not have a passport, ask the DMV staff what alternative documents they accept — some states will work with you if you bring multiple documents that together prove your identity and date of birth.

Cost and payment methods

A standard state ID card costs between $10 and $50 depending on your state and how long it is valid (usually four to eight years). Some states charge less for people under 21 or over 65. Payment is almost always cash or debit card at the DMV; a few locations accept credit cards, but call ahead to be sure. If you are getting an ID because you lost or damaged your previous one, some states charge a replacement fee on top of the regular cost.

If you cannot afford the fee, ask the DMV whether your state has a fee waiver program for people with low income. Some states waive or reduce the cost if you are homeless, receiving public benefits, or in a domestic violence situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a state ID?

Standard processing takes one to two weeks by mail in most states. If you need it faster, expedited processing usually costs $10 to $30 extra and takes three to five business days. Some DMVs issue a temporary paper ID on the spot that you can use while you wait for the card to arrive.

Can I get an ID without a Social Security number?

Most states require a Social Security number, but some will issue an ID to people who do not have one — usually immigrants or people with religious objections. Call your state DMV to ask what documents you can bring instead. You may need a passport, visa, or other federal document.

What if I do not have a permanent address?

If you are homeless or living in a shelter, many states let you use the shelter's address or a mail drop address (like a post office box or a friend's address where you receive mail). Ask the DMV staff what they accept — some require a letter from the shelter or a utility bill in your name, while others are more flexible.

Can someone else pick up my ID for me?

Most states mail the ID directly to your address, so you do not have to pick it up. If you need to pick it up in person or have it mailed somewhere other than your address, ask the DMV staff when you explore — some allow this with written permission, while others do not.

What if I lost my ID or it was stolen?

Report it to your state DMV as soon as possible — you can usually do this online or by phone. Then visit the DMV in person with your documents to get a replacement. Some states charge a replacement fee on top of the regular ID cost, and some offer expedited processing for lost or stolen IDs.