Where to get an ID depends on your state and what 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 some states call it the Secretary of State's office or Bureau of Motor Vehicles. If you need a federal ID for air travel or federal buildings, you'll need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport. If you don't drive and just need proof of identity, a state ID card (non-driver) is simpler and faster than a license.

The exact office location, hours, and documents required vary by state. Your first step is finding your state's DMV website, which will tell you where your nearest office is, what you need to bring, and whether you can make an appointment. Some states let you renew or replace an ID online or by mail, which saves a trip entirely.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV (or equivalent office) is where you get a driver's license or state ID card, and their website lists all locations, hours, and required documents.
  • A non-driver state ID card is faster and cheaper than a driver's license if you only need proof of identity.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or tax ID — the exact documents vary by state.
  • Many states now offer online renewal, mail-in replacement, or appointment scheduling to avoid long waits in person.
  • If you need a federal ID for flying or entering federal buildings, ask the DMV whether your state's driver's license meets REAL ID standards.

How to find your state DMV office and hours

Search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" to reach your state's official website. The site will have a location finder where you enter your city or zip code and see all nearby offices, their hours, and whether they take walk-ins or require appointments.

Many states now require or strongly recommend making an appointment online before you go in person. If your state offers this, book it before you gather your documents — the appointment confirmation often tells you exactly what to bring. If your state does not have online appointments, call the office directly to ask about current wait times and whether they're accepting walk-ins that day.

Documents you will need to bring

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The specific documents accepted vary, so check your state's DMV website for the exact list. Common proof of identity includes a passport, birth certificate, or previous driver's license. Common proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub with your full SSN. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or your immigration documents. Bring originals, not copies — the DMV staff will make copies if needed.

If you're renewing a license or ID that's still valid, you may need fewer documents. If you're replacing a lost or stolen ID, bring a police report if you have one. If you're changing your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

Getting a non-driver state ID card instead of a license

If you don't drive and only need proof of identity, a non-driver state ID card is usually faster and cheaper than a driver's license. You bring the same documents (proof of identity, residency, and SSN), but you skip the written test and driving test. The card looks similar to a driver's license and is accepted for age verification, boarding flights, and entering federal buildings if it meets REAL ID standards.

The fee is typically lower than a driver's license — often $15 to $30 depending on your state — and the card is valid for the same length of time. If you later decide to drive, you can upgrade to a full license by taking the written and driving tests.

REAL ID compliance and federal ID requirements

If you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building, your ID must meet REAL ID standards. Most state driver's licenses and ID cards now meet these standards, but some older ones do not. When you explore for a new ID or renew an existing one, ask the DMV staff whether the card you're getting is REAL ID-compliant. If it is, it will have a small star or marking in the corner.

If your current ID does not meet REAL ID standards and you need one for flying, you have two options: renew your state ID to get a REAL ID-compliant version, or get a U.S. passport book or passport card. A passport is valid for travel outside the U.S. as well, but it costs more and takes longer to process.

Online renewal and mail-in replacement options

Many states now let you renew a driver's license or ID card online if it's not expired or only recently expired. You log into your state's DMV website, pay the fee, and a new card arrives by mail in one to three weeks. This saves a trip to the office and works if you haven't changed your address or name.

If your license or ID is lost or stolen, some states let you request a replacement by mail or online. You'll need to fill out a form, pay a fee, and provide proof of identity. The replacement card takes longer than an in-person visit — usually two to four weeks — so if you need an ID urgently, going to the DMV in person is faster.

What to expect during your visit

Bring all required documents in originals, plus a completed process form if your state requires one (most DMVs have forms at the office or online). Arrive early if you don't have an appointment, as wait times vary. Some offices are busier on certain days — your state's website may show which times are less crowded.

At the counter, staff will check your documents, take a photo, and collect your fee. If you're getting a driver's license, you'll take a written test on road signs and traffic laws — you can study the manual on your state's DMV website beforehand. If you pass the written test, you'll schedule a driving test at a later date (or take it the same day if your state offers it). For a non-driver ID card, there's no test.

Your new card will arrive by mail in one to three weeks. You'll receive a temporary paper ID or receipt that you can use as proof of identity until the card arrives. Keep this receipt safe.

Getting an ID if you don't have a birth certificate or Social Security number

If you don't have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. Search "[state name] vital records" to find the office and the cost, which is usually $10 to $30. The office will mail it to you in one to four weeks, or you may be able to pick it up in person.

If you don't have a Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration to explore for one. You'll need proof of identity, proof of age, and proof of citizenship or immigration status. The process takes one to two weeks. Once you have a Social Security number, you can explore for a state ID.

If you're an immigrant without a Social Security number, some states issue ID cards to people with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Check your state's DMV website to see whether this is an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a state ID or driver's license cost?

The fee varies by state, typically $20 to $100 for a driver's license and $10 to $50 for a non-driver ID card. Renewal is usually cheaper than a first-time process. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, as it changes periodically.

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

If you explore in person, you'll get a temporary paper ID or receipt the same day. Your permanent card arrives by mail in one to three weeks. If you renew online or by mail, the card takes two to four weeks. If you need an ID urgently, explore in person is fastest.

Can I get an ID if I don't have a current address?

Most states require proof of residency, which usually means a document with your current address. If you're homeless or living temporarily, ask your DMV whether you can use a shelter address, a friend's address with a letter of permission, or a PO box. Some states have exceptions for people without stable housing.

What if I lost my ID or it was stolen?

Report it to your local police if it was stolen, then go to the DMV with your police report and proof of identity. You'll pay a replacement fee (usually $10 to $30) and get a temporary paper ID the same day. Your new card arrives by mail in one to three weeks.

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

It depends on your state and office. Check your state's DMV website to see whether appointments are required, recommended, or not needed. Many states now require appointments to manage crowds, but some still take walk-ins. If you don't have an appointment and walk-ins are allowed, arrive early to avoid long waits.