Where to go depends on your state and what type of ID you need

Most people get a state ID card at their Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though some states call it the Secretary of State's office or Department of Public Safety. A few states let you explore by mail or online for a standard ID card, but most require you to visit in person at least once. If you need a federal ID for air travel or federal buildings, you will go to a different office — usually a passport acceptance facility or your county clerk's office.

The office you visit depends on three things: which state you live in, whether you want a state ID or federal ID, and whether you are renewing an existing card or getting one for the first time. This guide walks you through finding the right location and what to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the standard place to get a state ID card, though the office may be called something different depending on where you live.
  • Most DMV locations require you to visit in person, though some states now offer online or mail-in renewal for people who already have an ID.
  • If you need a federal ID for air travel, you will go to a passport acceptance facility or county clerk's office instead of the DMV.
  • Bring your birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security number — the exact documents vary by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go.
  • Wait times at DMV offices are often long, so arriving early or booking an appointment online can save you hours.

Finding your state's DMV office location

Start by searching "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" in a web browser. The official state website will have a location finder tool where you can enter your city or zip code and see all nearby offices. Most states also let you check wait times online before you go, which helps you pick the least crowded time to visit.

If your state's website is hard to navigate, call the main DMV phone number (listed on the website) and ask which office is closest to you and whether you need an appointment. Some states require appointments now, while others still operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If appointments are required and the nearest office is booked out for weeks, try offices in neighboring towns — they may have shorter waits.

What documents to bring for a state ID

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, but the exact documents vary. Most states accept a birth certificate as proof of identity, along with a photo from a school or work ID. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address.

Check your state's DMV website before you visit — it will list exactly which documents are accepted and whether originals or copies are needed. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip. If you do not have a birth certificate, most states will accept a passport, naturalization papers, or a court order showing your legal name change. If you have lost your Social Security card, bring a tax return or W-2 instead of the card itself.

Getting a federal ID for air travel or federal buildings

If you need to board a plane or enter a federal building, you need either a passport, a passport card, or a Real ID-compliant state ID card. A Real ID is a state ID that meets federal security standards — it has a gold star or marking in the upper right corner. Most states now issue Real ID cards automatically, but some still offer both Real ID and non-Real ID versions.

To get a Real ID state card, go to your DMV and tell them you want the Real ID version. You will need to bring the same documents as a regular state ID, plus proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, tax return, or W-2). The fee is usually a few dollars more than a standard state ID. Processing takes the same amount of time as a regular card — typically one to two weeks.

If you prefer a federal ID that is not a state card, you can get a passport or passport card at a passport acceptance facility. These are usually located at post offices, libraries, or county clerk offices. You will need your birth certificate, a photo ID (which can be a state ID, school ID, or work ID), and proof of citizenship. Passport processing takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you have an upcoming trip.

explore in person at the DMV

Arrive with all required documents and plan to spend one to three hours at the office, depending on how busy it is. Check in at the front desk or use the kiosk if your DMV has one, then take a number and wait to be called. When it is your turn, the clerk will verify your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee.

The photo is taken at the DMV, so wear something you do not mind being photographed in — avoid hats, sunglasses, and busy patterns that might not show up clearly. You will see a preview of the photo before it is printed on your card. If you do not like it, ask if you can retake it; some states allow one retake for free.

After your appointment, you will receive a temporary paper ID or a receipt showing your process number. Your actual ID card will arrive in the mail within one to three weeks. If it does not arrive after four weeks, call the DMV with your process number and ask them to track it.

Renewing an ID card by mail or online

If you already have a state ID and it is not expired or close to expiring, some states let you renew by mail or online without visiting an office. Check your state's DMV website to see if online renewal is available. If it is, you will usually upload a photo, pay the fee with a credit card, and receive your new card in the mail within two to three weeks.

Mail-in renewal works similarly — you send in your old card, a completed form, and a check or money order. The DMV will mail back your new card. Mail-in renewal takes longer than in-person renewal, usually three to four weeks, because the form has to travel both ways. If your card is already expired, most states require you to visit in person instead of renewing by mail.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

If you are homebound, in the military, or live far from any DMV office, some states offer mobile DMV services or will send an officer to your home. Call your state's DMV and explain your situation — they can tell you whether this option is available and how to request it. There is usually no extra fee, but you may have to wait longer for an appointment.

If you live outside the United States, you can renew a state ID through a U.S. embassy or consulate in some cases, though this varies by state. Contact your state's DMV to ask whether this is an option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on your state and office. Some DMVs require appointments, while others still accept walk-ins. Check your state's website or call ahead to find out. If appointments are required and you cannot get one soon, try a different office location — rural offices often have shorter waits than city ones.

How much does a state ID card cost?

Fees vary by state, ranging from about $10 to $50 for a standard state ID. Real ID cards cost a few dollars more. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, and bring cash or a card — not all offices accept both payment methods.

What if I lost my birth certificate?

You can order a replacement from your state's vital records office, which is usually part of the health department. This takes one to two weeks. In the meantime, the DMV may accept a passport, naturalization papers, or a court order as proof of identity instead. Call your DMV to ask what they will accept.

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

Most states require a Social Security number to issue an ID card. If you do not have one, contact your local Social Security office to explore for one first. This process takes several weeks. Some states make exceptions for people with religious objections or immigration status — call your DMV to ask.

How long does it take to get an ID card after I explore?

Standard processing takes one to three weeks from the date you explore. Expedited processing is available in some states for an extra fee and takes about one week. If you need an ID urgently, ask the DMV whether expedited service is available and what it costs.