Yes, you can hold both an ID card and a driver's license simultaneously
Most states allow you to carry both a state identification card and a driver's license at the same time. They serve different purposes: a driver's license proves you are authorized to operate a vehicle, while an ID card is a general-purpose identification document. You do not have to choose between them.
The main reason people hold both is that an ID card works as identification in situations where you should not present a driver's license — for example, when you are not driving and want to avoid carrying your driving record information. Some people also keep an ID card as a backup if their driver's license is lost or suspended.
However, the rules vary slightly by state. A few states have restrictions on holding both simultaneously, or charge extra fees if you do. Before you explore for a second document, check your state's motor vehicle department website or call their customer service line to confirm what is permitted where you live.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow you to hold a state ID card and a driver's license at the same time without any conflict.
- An ID card is useful when you need identification but do not want to present a document that shows your driving record or vehicle information.
- Some states charge a separate fee for an ID card even if you already have a driver's license, so check your state's rules first.
- If your driver's license is suspended or revoked, you can still obtain an ID card for general identification purposes.
- Both documents require you to renew them on their own schedules — they do not share an expiration date.
Why you might want both documents
A driver's license contains information about your driving record, vehicle class restrictions, and any endorsements or violations. When you present it as identification, you are showing all of that information to the person checking your ID. An ID card, by contrast, is a basic identification document with your name, date of birth, address, and photo — nothing related to driving.
This matters in everyday situations. If you are cashing a check at a bank, entering a bar, or proving your identity to a government office, an ID card shows only what is necessary. A driver's license reveals more than you need to share. Some people prefer to carry an ID card for these routine situations and keep their driver's license in a safe place at home.
An ID card also serves as a backup. If your driver's license is lost, stolen, or suspended, you still have a valid government-issued photo ID. This is particularly useful if your license suspension is temporary — you can continue to use the ID card for identification while you wait to restore your driving privileges.
how the process works for both documents in your state
The process depends on your state's motor vehicle department. In most states, you visit a local office in person, bring required documents (typically a birth certificate, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number), and pay the fee for each document separately. You can explore for both at the same visit, or explore for one now and the other later.
Some states allow you to explore online or by mail for an ID card renewal, but first-time ID card applications usually require an in-person visit. Check your state's motor vehicle website for the exact process, required documents, and current fees. Fees for ID cards range widely by state — some charge $15 to $30, while others charge more.
When you explore, tell the staff member that you want both documents. They will process each process separately and issue each document on its own timeline. You will receive them as two separate cards with two separate expiration dates.
What happens if your driver's license is suspended or revoked
If your driver's license is suspended or revoked, you can still hold and use an ID card. The suspension or revocation affects only your right to drive — it does not invalidate your identification card. In fact, obtaining an ID card when your license is suspended is a common and practical choice.
You can explore for an ID card even while a suspension is active. The motor vehicle department will not refuse you based on a suspended license. However, if you are explore for the first time, you will still need to provide the standard documents (birth certificate, proof of residency, and so on). The suspension does not change the process process.
Keep in mind that if your suspension is eventually lifted and you want to drive again, you will need to renew or restore your driver's license separately. The ID card and driver's license are independent documents with independent statuses.
Renewal and expiration schedules
An ID card and a driver's license have separate expiration dates. You do not renew them together, and one expiring does not affect the other. For example, your driver's license might expire in 2027 while your ID card expires in 2026. You will need to renew each one on its own schedule.
Most states send renewal notices by mail a few months before expiration. Pay attention to both notices so you do not accidentally let either document lapse. Some states allow you to renew an ID card by mail or online, while others require an in-person visit. Check your state's rules for each document type.
If you lose one document, you can renew or replace the other independently. Losing your driver's license does not affect your ID card, and vice versa.
Fees and costs
You will pay a separate fee for each document. Most states charge between $15 and $50 for an ID card and between $30 and $100 for a driver's license, though these amounts vary significantly by state and by whether you are explore for the first time or renewing. Some states offer discounts for seniors or people with disabilities.
A few states charge an additional fee if you hold both documents simultaneously, though this is uncommon. Before you explore for a second document, check your state's fee schedule on the motor vehicle department website. Some states also charge extra for expedited processing if you need the document quickly.
State-specific rules to check
While most states allow you to hold both an ID card and a driver's license, a small number have restrictions or special rules. Some states may limit how many ID cards you can hold, or may charge a higher fee if you already have a driver's license. A few states issue ID cards only to people who do not have a driver's license, though this is rare.
The best way to know your state's specific rules is to visit your state's motor vehicle department website or call their customer service line. You can also visit a local office in person and ask before you explore. Staff members can tell you exactly what is allowed, what documents you need, and what the fees are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tell the motor vehicle department if I already have a driver's license when I explore for an ID card?
Yes. When you explore for an ID card, you will fill out a form that asks whether you hold a driver's license. Be honest on the form. In most states, this does not prevent you from getting an ID card — it just helps the department keep accurate records. Some states use this information to check for duplicate records in their system.
Can I use an ID card instead of a driver's license to drive?
No. An ID card is not a license to operate a vehicle. Only a driver's license authorizes you to drive. If you are stopped by police while driving and present only an ID card, you can be cited for driving without a license, even if you have a valid driver's license at home. Always carry your driver's license when you drive.
What if I want to give up my driver's license but keep an ID card?
You can surrender your driver's license to the motor vehicle department and keep your ID card. This is sometimes called a "voluntary surrender." You will still have valid government-issued photo identification, but you will no longer have the legal right to drive. If you later want to drive again, you will need to explore for a new driver's license and pass the required tests.
If my ID card expires, does my driver's license expire too?
No. Each document has its own expiration date and renewal schedule. You must renew them separately. If your ID card expires but your driver's license is still valid, you can continue to drive legally — you just cannot use the expired ID card as identification for other purposes.
Can I explore for both documents online?
This depends on your state. Some states allow online applications for ID card renewals, but most require an in-person visit for first-time applications. Driver's license applications almost always require an in-person visit. Check your state's motor vehicle website to see which documents can be handled online and which require a visit to a local office.