Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the main place to get an ID card

In most states, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — sometimes called the Secretary of State's office or Bureau of Motor Vehicles — issues state ID cards. You go to a local DMV office in person, bring the documents they require, pay a fee, and have your photo taken. The card arrives by mail in one to three weeks.

A few states run ID issuance through a different agency. Check your state's official website by searching "[your state] state ID" to find the exact office and whether you can make an appointment online. Many DMVs now require appointments; walk-ins may face long waits or be turned away.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV is the official place to get a state ID card, though a few states use a different agency — check your state's website to be sure.
  • You must go in person with documents like a birth certificate, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or ITIN, and the fee ranges from $10 to $30 depending on your state.
  • Many DMVs require you to book an appointment online or by phone before you arrive, and walk-ins may not be accepted.
  • The card typically arrives by mail within one to three weeks, so plan ahead if you need it by a specific date.

What documents you need to bring

The DMV requires proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of where you live. A birth certificate or passport works for identity. A Social Security card, W-2, or tax return works for your number. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address works for residency — it usually has to be dated within the last 60 days.

Some states also ask for a second form of ID or proof of legal presence. Requirements vary by state, so check your DMV's website before you go. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

How to find your local DMV office and make an appointment

Search "[your state] DMV locations" or go to your state's official DMV website. Most states have an office locator tool that shows hours, services offered, and whether that office handles ID cards. Many DMVs are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours.

Call ahead or check online to see whether your DMV requires an appointment. If it does, you can usually book one on the website or by phone. If appointments are full, check back in a few days — slots often open up. Some states let you schedule weeks in advance; others open appointments only a few days out.

The fee and how long it takes

State ID card fees range from about $10 to $30, depending on your state and how long the card is valid. Most cards last four to eight years. Some states charge less for seniors or people with disabilities. Payment methods vary — some DMVs take cash, card, or check; others take card only. Check your local office's website to know what to bring.

After you complete your appointment, the DMV takes your photo and processes your process on the spot. The physical card is mailed to the address you provide, usually within one to three weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee if you need it faster.

What to do if your DMV is overwhelmed or has no appointments

If your DMV has no appointments available for weeks, check nearby offices — a DMV in the next county or city may have sooner slots. Some states let you use any office, not just the one closest to you.

If all offices are booked far out, call the DMV directly and ask whether they accept walk-ins at certain times or whether they have a cancellation line. Some offices hold a small number of same-day slots for walk-ins, especially early in the morning. A few states have mobile DMV units that visit smaller towns on a schedule — check your state's website to see whether one comes near you.

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 vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Search "[state] vital records" or "[country] birth certificate" to find the right office. This usually takes two to four weeks and costs $15 to $30.

If you cannot get a birth certificate — for example, if you were born abroad and records are unavailable — ask the DMV what alternative documents they accept. Some states accept a passport, consular document, or court order in place of a birth certificate. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask what your options are.

Getting an ID if you do not have a Social Security number

If you have a valid ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, most states accept it in place of an SSN. Bring your ITIN documentation — usually a tax return or IRS letter — to the DMV.

If you do not have an SSN or ITIN, you cannot get a standard state ID card in most states. Some states have special ID programs for people without an SSN; call your DMV to ask whether one exists. You may also be able to get a passport through the U.S. State Department if you are a U.S. citizen, which serves as a federal ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most states require a current address on your ID. If you are homeless or living temporarily, ask the DMV whether you can use a shelter address, a friend's address, or a mailing address like a post office box. Policies vary by state, so call ahead and ask what they accept.

How much does a state ID card cost?

Fees range from roughly $10 to $30 depending on your state and the card's validity period. Some states charge less for seniors, people with disabilities, or first-time applicants. Check your state DMV's website for the exact fee.

What if I lost my ID or it was stolen?

Go to your DMV with proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new card. You may pay a replacement fee, which is usually the same as a new card or slightly higher. The DMV can issue a replacement on the spot or mail it to you.

Can I renew my ID by mail or online?

Some states let you renew by mail or online if your card is not expired and your information has not changed. Check your state DMV's website to see whether online renewal is an option. If you must renew in person, you can usually book an appointment online.

What if I moved to a new state?

You will need to get an ID from your new state's DMV. Bring your old ID plus the standard documents — birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security documentation. You do not need to surrender your old state's ID, though some states ask you to.