Go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office

Your state ID comes from the same place as your driver's license: the Department of Motor Vehicles, usually called the DMV. In some states it is called the Department of Public Safety, Secretary of State, or Bureau of Motor Vehicles — the name varies, but the function is the same. You walk in with documents, pay a fee, get your photo taken, and leave with an ID card.

You do not need a driver's license to get a state ID. A state ID is a separate document that proves who you are and where you live. It works for voting, boarding a plane, entering a federal building, or opening a bank account. Many people get one instead of a driver's license because they do not drive.

The office you visit is a physical location in your county or region. You cannot get a state ID online or by mail — you must appear in person so they can photograph you and verify your documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV or equivalent motor vehicle agency is the only place that issues state IDs; search "[your state] DMV" online to find the office nearest you.
  • You will need to bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of your current address, and a Social Security number or tax ID.
  • Bring your original documents, not copies, because the DMV must see them in person before they will issue an ID.
  • Fees range from about $15 to $35 depending on your state and whether you want a standard or Real ID card.
  • Processing takes a few minutes in the office, but the card itself arrives by mail one to three weeks later.

Find your state DMV office online

Search "[your state name] DMV" or "[your state name] motor vehicles" in any search engine. The official state website will appear at the top. Click on it and look for a link that says "Find an office" or "Locations." You will see a list of DMV offices in your area, their hours, and their addresses.

Some states let you search by zip code or county. Others show all offices and let you pick the one closest to you. Write down the address and hours before you go — many offices close for lunch or have limited evening hours, and some are closed on certain days of the week.

If you cannot find the office location online, call the main DMV phone number listed on the state website. A staff member can tell you which office serves your address and whether you need an appointment.

Check whether you need an appointment

Some DMV offices take walk-ins only. Others require you to book an appointment online or by phone. A few use a hybrid system where you can walk in but will wait longer than someone with an appointment. The state website will tell you which system your office uses.

If appointments are required, book one before you go. Most states let you book online through their DMV website. You choose a date, time, and office, and you get a confirmation number. Bring that number with you. If you cannot book online, call the office directly — the phone number is on the state website.

Walk-in offices typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early if you can, because wait times can be an hour or more during lunch or after work.

Gather your documents before you go

The DMV needs proof of who you are and where you live. Bring your original documents — the DMV will not accept copies. You will need one document from each of these groups:

  • Proof of identity: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or naturalization certificate.
  • Proof of address: A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address. It must be dated within the last 60 days in most states.
  • Social Security number or tax ID: Your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. Some states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration instead.

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office — search "[your state] vital records" online. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration.

Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states ask for additional documents. A few require proof of citizenship or a second form of ID. The website will list exactly what you need.

Bring payment and be ready for your photo

State ID fees range from about $15 to $35, depending on your state and the type of card. A standard state ID costs less than a Real ID card, which meets federal requirements for flying and entering federal buildings. Check your state's website to see the exact fee and what payment methods the office accepts — most take cash, debit cards, and credit cards.

When it is your turn, a staff member will check your documents, ask you to confirm your address and date of birth, and take your photograph. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in — you cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or a mask unless for religious or medical reasons. The photo will be on your ID for several years, so many people dress as they normally would.

The staff member will print a receipt with your confirmation number. Keep this receipt — it proves you applied. Your ID card will arrive by mail in one to three weeks. If it does not arrive after three weeks, call the DMV with your confirmation number and they can check the status.

What to do if you cannot find your documents

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one online or by mail from your state's vital records office. Search "[your state] vital records birth certificate" to find the office. Ordering usually takes one to two weeks, and there is a fee of $10 to $30. Some states offer rush processing for an extra charge.

If you do not have a passport, you can get one through the U.S. State Department, but that takes longer — usually four to six weeks. A state ID is faster if you have a birth certificate instead.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you can request a replacement through the Social Security Administration website or by visiting a local Social Security office. Replacements are free and arrive by mail in one to two weeks.

Real ID versus standard state ID

A Real ID is a state ID that meets federal security standards. You need it to fly on a domestic plane, enter a military base, or go into a federal building. A standard state ID works for voting, opening a bank account, and proving your identity in most situations, but not for flying.

Real ID cards cost a few dollars more than standard state IDs — usually $5 to $10 extra. The process process is the same, but the DMV will verify your documents more carefully. You will need the same proof of identity and address, plus proof of your Social Security number.

If you are not sure which one you need, ask the DMV staff member when you arrive. Most people get a Real ID because it covers more situations and the extra cost is small.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a state ID if I do not have a permanent address?

Most states require a current mailing address. If you are homeless or living in a shelter, some DMV offices will accept a shelter address or a general delivery address at your local post office. Call your DMV office directly to ask what address they will accept in your situation.

How long does a state ID last?

State IDs are usually valid for four to eight years, depending on your state and your age. The expiration date will be printed on your card. You can renew by mail or online in most states when it is about to expire.

What if I lost my state ID or it was stolen?

Go back to the DMV office with your documents and ask for a replacement. There is usually a small fee, around $10 to $20. The new card will arrive by mail in one to three weeks. If you think your ID was used fraudulently, contact your state's identity theft hotline or the Federal Trade Commission.

Do I need to renew my state ID before I travel?

If your ID is still valid on the date you travel, you can use it. If it expires before or during your trip, you will need to renew it first. Check the expiration date on your card and renew at least two weeks before you travel to allow time for the new card to arrive by mail.

Can someone else pick up my state ID for me?

No. Your state ID arrives by mail to the address you provided at the DMV. You do not pick it up in person. If you move before it arrives, contact the DMV with your new address so they can send it to the right place.