You get a state ID from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, either in person at a local office or online if your state offers it

A state ID is a government-issued photo identification card that proves who you are. Unlike a driver's license, it does not give you permission to drive. You need it to board a plane, enter a federal building, open a bank account, or prove your age. Most states issue them through the same office that handles driver's licenses — your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, often called the DMV, though some states use different names like the Secretary of State's office or Department of Licensing.

The fastest way to find your state's ID office is to search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] state ID" in a search engine. The official government website will list every local office, hours, and what documents you need to bring. Some states let you start the process online, pay the fee, and then visit an office for a photo and fingerprints. Others require you to go in person from the start. A few states now offer online ID renewal if you already have one.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the only place that issues state IDs, and you can find the nearest office by searching "[your state] DMV" online.
  • You will need proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of your current address (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID.
  • Some states let you start your process online and pay the fee before visiting an office, which can shorten your wait time.
  • The cost ranges from about $15 to $50 depending on your state, and the card usually lasts four to eight years before you need to renew it.
  • If you cannot visit an office in person, a few states offer mail-in renewal or online renewal for existing ID holders, but new applicants almost always must appear in person.

Finding Your State's DMV Office and Hours

Start by going to your state government's official website. Search for "DMV" or "motor vehicles" in the site's search box. The DMV page will show you every local office location, their hours, and whether they take walk-ins or require an appointment. Many states now use an online appointment system — you pick a date and time, and the office holds a slot for you. This cuts your wait time from hours to minutes.

If your state's website is hard to navigate, call the main DMV phone number listed there. A staff member can tell you which office is closest to you, whether it is currently open, and what documents you must bring. Some offices handle only renewals; others handle new IDs. Calling ahead saves you a wasted trip.

A few states offer mobile DMV units that visit smaller towns on a set schedule. If you live far from a permanent office, search "[your state] mobile DMV" to see if one comes near you.

Documents You Need to Bring

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of address, and your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but here is what most accept:

  • Proof of identity: a birth certificate, U.S. passport, previous driver's license or state ID, military ID, or tribal ID.
  • Proof of address: a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current address. The document usually must be dated within the last 60 days.
  • Social Security number: bring your Social Security card, or be ready to provide the number from memory. Some states accept a tax return or W-2 as proof instead.

If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to show proof of legal presence — usually a passport, green card, or visa. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list, because some states accept different documents than others.

The Cost and How Long It Takes

A state ID costs between $15 and $50, depending on your state. Most states charge less for a four-year card and more for an eight-year card. Some states waive the fee for seniors or people with low income — ask at the office or check the website.

You will receive your card in the mail within two to four weeks in most states. Some states offer a rush option for an extra fee if you need it sooner. A few states hand you a temporary paper ID on the spot while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.

The time you spend at the office itself depends on how busy it is. If you have an appointment, expect 15 to 30 minutes. Walk-ins can wait an hour or more, especially on Fridays and at the end of the month.

Online and Mail-In Options in Some States

A growing number of states let you start your ID process online. You fill out a form, upload photos of your documents, and pay the fee with a credit card. Then you visit an office for a photo and fingerprints, which takes about 15 minutes. This route is faster than filling out forms in person and waiting in line.

A few states offer mail-in renewal if you already have a state ID and it is not expired. You send in your old card, a completed form, and a new photo. You do not have to visit an office. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is open to you.

New applicants almost always must appear in person for a photo and to verify your identity. No state issues a first-time ID by mail only.

What to Do If You Lost Your ID or It Expired

If your state ID expired, you can renew it. The process is usually simpler than getting a new one — you may not need to bring as many documents, and some states let you renew by mail or online. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal process.

If you lost your ID, you will need to report it and request a replacement. Some states treat this as a new process and charge the full fee. Others charge a smaller replacement fee. Bring the same documents you would for a new ID, plus a police report if you filed one for the lost card.

If your ID was stolen, report it to the police and to your state DMV. Some states flag stolen IDs in their system to prevent someone else from using it.

Special Situations: Name Changes, Address Changes, and Non-Citizens

If you changed your name, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the change. You can update your name on your ID at the same time you renew it, or you can visit the DMV separately to change it.

If you moved and your address on your ID is outdated, you can update it at the DMV. Some states let you change your address online without visiting an office. Others require you to visit in person or mail in a form.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a state ID if you have legal status — a green card, visa, or work permit. Bring your immigration documents along with the other required papers. Some states issue IDs to people without legal status; others do not. Check your state's DMV website to see what your state allows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a state ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can bring a passport, previous driver's license, military ID, or tribal ID instead. If you do not have any of those, contact your state's vital records office to request a copy of your birth certificate — it usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail.

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

It depends on your state. Some DMVs take walk-ins; others require an appointment. Check your state's website or call ahead. If appointments are available, booking one saves you hours of waiting.

What if I cannot visit the DMV in person?

If you are homebound or have a disability, some states send a mobile unit to your home or allow a representative to explore on your behalf. Call your state DMV to ask about accommodations. If you already have a state ID, a few states let you renew by mail.

How long is a state ID valid?

Most states issue IDs that are valid for four to eight years. Your card will show the expiration date. You can renew it before it expires, and some states let you renew online or by mail.

Can I use a state ID to fly?

Yes. A state ID is one of the forms of photo identification the Transportation Security Administration accepts at airport security. You can also use a passport, military ID, or tribal ID.