Yes, you can convert your California driver's license to an ID card at the DMV
You can exchange your driver's license for a California ID card at any DMV office. The state treats this as a replacement, not a new card — you keep your same number and expiration date. The process takes about 30 minutes in person, costs $38, and you walk out with a temporary paper ID valid for 60 days while the plastic card arrives by mail in about two weeks.
The main reason people make this switch is that they no longer drive and do not want to renew a license they will not use. Some people also prefer the ID card because it does not display a driving privilege code, which can reveal information about medical conditions or restrictions to someone checking the card.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DMV office in person with your current driver's license and proof of residency to make the switch.
- The replacement ID card costs $38 and keeps your same identification number and expiration date.
- You will receive a temporary paper ID when ready and the plastic card by mail within two weeks.
- If your license is expired or will expire soon, you can renew it to an ID card at the same time for an additional $38.
What documents you need to bring
Bring your current California driver's license and one document proving your current address. The DMV accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, or government mail dated within 60 days of your visit. If you do not have a document with your current address, you can bring two documents showing your name and an older address, plus a statement signed under penalty of perjury explaining why you cannot provide current proof.
If your driver's license is expired, bring it anyway — the DMV will still process the conversion. If it expired more than five years ago, you will need to pass a vision test before the DMV issues the ID card.
The step-by-step process at the DMV
First, go to the DMV website, select your county, and check the office hours. You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring your license and proof of residency.
At the counter, tell the clerk you want to convert your driver's license to an ID card. The clerk will take your current license, scan it, and ask you to confirm your information on a screen. You will answer a few questions about your address and sign a form. The clerk will take a new photo (unless your current license photo is less than five years old and you want to keep it). You will pay $38 by cash, check, or card.
The DMV will print a temporary paper ID on the spot, valid for 60 days. This paper ID works for most purposes — boarding flights, entering federal buildings, buying age-restricted items — while you wait for the plastic card. The permanent card arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days. If you do not receive it after three weeks, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133.
Renewing an expired license to an ID card at the same time
If your driver's license is expired or expiring within 60 days, you can renew it to an ID card in the same visit. This costs $76 total — $38 for the renewal and $38 for the conversion. You will need the same documents as a standard conversion, plus proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form) if you have not renewed your license in the past 12 years.
If your license expired more than five years ago, the DMV will require a vision test before issuing the new ID card. You can take this test at the DMV office during your visit at no extra charge.
What happens to your driving privileges
Once you convert to an ID card, you can no longer drive legally in California. If you change your mind later and want to drive again, you will need to reapply for a driver's license from scratch — you cannot straightforward convert back. This means retaking the written test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, and paying the full license fee.
Make sure you are certain about this decision before you go to the DMV. If you think you might drive again within the next few years, consider keeping your license and straightforward not renewing it when it expires.
ID cards for people under 21
If you are under 21, the ID card will have a vertical orientation and a different color scheme than the standard horizontal card. This design signals your age to businesses checking ID. The conversion process is the same, and the card costs $38.
You can convert to a standard horizontal ID card on your 21st birthday by visiting the DMV again, though this is optional. The process is identical to the initial conversion and costs another $38.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert my license to an ID card by mail?
No, you must visit a DMV office in person. The DMV requires a new photo and your signature on forms, both of which must happen face-to-face. You cannot mail in your license or use an online service for this conversion.
Will my ID card number be the same as my driver's license number?
Yes, your identification number stays the same. The only thing that changes is the card type and the removal of driving privilege codes. Your expiration date also remains the same unless you are renewing at the same time.
What if I lose my ID card after the conversion?
You can replace it at any DMV office for $38. Bring proof of residency and your Social Security number. If you lost it within 30 days of receiving it, the DMV may issue a replacement at no charge — ask when you visit.
Can I convert to an ID card if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
Yes, outstanding tickets or fines do not prevent you from converting to an ID card. However, if your license is suspended due to unpaid fines, the DMV will not issue the ID card until you resolve the suspension. Contact the DMV to check your suspension status before visiting an office.
How long is a California ID card valid?
ID cards are valid for 10 years if you are 62 or older, and 5 years if you are under 62. Your new ID card will have the same expiration date as your current driver's license unless you renew at the same time.