How to Get a State ID

Step-by-Step Process

1. 1

   Gather your documents

   You will need proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a W-2), and proof of your current address (utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail). For a REAL ID, you typically need one identity document, one Social Security document, and two proof-of-address documents. Requirements vary by state, so check your state DMV website before going.

2. 2

   Find your local DMV office

   Visit your state DMV website to find the nearest office. Many states now offer online appointment scheduling, which can save hours of waiting. Some states have separate ID card offices or partner locations. Walk-ins are usually accepted but expect longer waits.

3. 3

   Complete the application form

   Most states use a combined application form for driver's licenses and state IDs. You can often download and pre-fill the form from your state DMV website before your visit. You will indicate that you want a non-driver ID card rather than a driver's license.

4. 4

   Visit the DMV in person

   Bring all your documents (originals, not photocopies), the completed application form, and payment. You will have your photo taken and may need to provide a signature. Some states accept cash only; others accept cards. Check your state DMV website for accepted payment methods.

5. 5

   Receive your ID

   Most states issue a temporary paper ID on the spot that is valid for 30 to 60 days. Your permanent ID card with your photo will arrive by mail within 1 to 4 weeks. Some states issue the card on-site at certain offices.

What You Need

REAL ID: What You Need to Know

REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025. A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID has a gold star in the upper right corner. You need a REAL ID (or a passport or other federally approved ID) to board domestic flights, enter certain federal buildings, and access military bases. If you do not plan to fly or visit federal facilities, a standard state ID still works for most everyday purposes including employment, banking, and accessing benefits. All 50 states now issue REAL ID-compliant IDs. The requirements are stricter than for a standard ID, generally requiring one identity document, proof of your Social Security number, and two proofs of residency. If you do not have a REAL ID by the enforcement date, the TSA introduced a paid alternative called ConfirmID in February 2026 that allows travelers to pay a $45 fee for a 10-day travel period to fly without a REAL ID, though TSA strongly urges everyone to get a REAL ID instead.

Getting a State ID After Incarceration

Getting ID is one of the most critical steps after being released from prison or jail. Without an ID, you cannot get a job, open a bank account, access benefits, or find housing. Many states now have programs to help incarcerated people obtain state IDs before or immediately after release. Michigan's Returning Citizen Identification Program has issued over 30,000 government-issued photo IDs to incarcerated individuals since 2020. North Carolina's DMV issues about 137 ID credentials per month to incarcerated or soon-to-be-released individuals. California law requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to help people obtain a California ID before release. Colorado's Department of Corrections assists individuals in acquiring a state ID, replacement Social Security card, birth certificate, and other identity documents. Many other states including Connecticut, Delaware, Wyoming, and Illinois have reentry programs that assist with ID documents. Ask your case manager, reentry coordinator, or parole officer about ID assistance programs in your state.

State ID with No Proof of Address (Homeless Provisions)

If you are experiencing homelessness and do not have a traditional proof of address, many states have provisions to help you. California has a formal No Fee ID Card Program where nonprofit organizations and government agencies can certify your homeless status and issue a fee waiver for a free ID. Colorado allows homeless applicants to provide alternative documentation instead of standard proof of address, including letters from shelters or social service agencies. Minnesota offers reduced-fee or free ID cards for youth experiencing homelessness. Washington, D.C. has a fee waiver program through the Department of Human Services where case managers help with birth certificate and ID applications. Many states will accept a letter from a shelter, social worker, or homeless services organization as proof of your address. Contact your local shelter, Legal Aid office, or 211 hotline to learn about ID assistance programs in your area.

Standard State ID vs. REAL ID vs. Enhanced ID

A standard state ID proves your identity and residency but is marked "Not For Federal Purposes" and cannot be used for domestic air travel or federal facility access. A REAL ID meets federal security standards, is marked with a gold star, and can be used for flying and federal facility access. An Enhanced ID (available in a few states including New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont, and Washington) includes both REAL ID compliance and a radio frequency chip that allows it to be used for land and sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Enhanced IDs have a flag symbol. For most people, a REAL ID or standard ID is sufficient.

If You Cannot Get to a DMV Office

Most states require an in-person visit for an original state ID. If you have a disability or are unable to travel to a DMV office, many states offer accommodations. Some states allow a designated representative to apply on your behalf. Contact your state DMV's accessibility or accommodations line to discuss options. If you are incarcerated, ask your facility's reentry coordinator about ID programs that bring DMV services into correctional facilities.

Tips for a Smooth DMV Visit

Bring more documents than you think you need. If one document is rejected, having backup documents can save you a second trip. Arrive early or schedule an appointment online. Bring cash as well as a card in case one payment method is not accepted. If your name has changed (through marriage, divorce, or court order), bring documentation of every name change linking your current name to the name on your birth certificate. Be patient: DMV visits can take 1 to 3 hours, but getting your ID is one of the most important steps toward stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a state ID cost?

State ID fees range from $5 to $35 depending on your state. Many states offer free IDs for people experiencing homelessness, seniors, veterans, and people leaving incarceration. Check your state DMV website or contact a local social services agency to learn about fee waivers.

Do I need a REAL ID?

You need a REAL ID (or a passport or other federally approved ID) to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings and military bases. If you do not plan to fly or visit federal facilities, a standard state ID works for most purposes including employment, banking, and benefits. REAL ID enforcement began May 7, 2025.

Can I get a state ID without a birth certificate?

Most states require a birth certificate or passport as proof of identity. If you do not have either, you may be able to use alternative documents such as a Certificate of Naturalization, military ID, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Some states have broader lists of acceptable alternative documents for non-REAL ID cards. Contact your DMV for your state's specific requirements, or see our guide on getting ID with no documents.

Can I get a state ID without a permanent address?

Yes. Many states have provisions for people experiencing homelessness to obtain a state ID without traditional proof of address. You may be able to use a letter from a shelter, a social worker, a homeless services organization, or a government agency as proof of your location. Contact your local shelter or Legal Aid office for help.

How long does it take to get a state ID?

You will typically receive a temporary paper ID on the day of your DMV visit. Your permanent card with photo arrives by mail in 1 to 4 weeks, depending on your state. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

Can I use a prison or jail release document as ID to get a state ID?

Some states accept prison release documents, parole papers, or DOC identification as a form of identity verification for obtaining a state ID. This varies by state. Many states have reentry programs that help formerly incarcerated people navigate the ID process. Contact your parole officer, reentry coordinator, or local Legal Aid office for guidance.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current name?

You need to bring documentation showing every legal name change. This includes marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders for legal name changes. Each document must show the connection from one name to the next, leading to your current legal name.