How to Get a Driver License or State ID Card

What a driver license and ID card are, and which one you need

A driver license is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency) and proves you are legally permitted to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It includes your photograph, signature, and driving record information. An ID card — sometimes called a state ID or non-driver ID — is a separate document that proves your identity and age but does not grant driving privileges. You need a driver license only if you plan to drive. You need an ID card if you want a state-issued photo ID for identification purposes but do not drive, or if you want a backup ID alongside your driver license.

The main difference is driving authority. A driver license shows you have passed a written test on traffic laws and a practical driving test. An ID card requires neither test — it is purely identification. Both documents serve as proof of age, identity, and residency in your state. Both are issued by the same agency and follow similar process processes, though the requirements and fees differ.

Key Takeaways

A driver license lets you legally drive and serves as photo ID; an ID card is photo ID only and does not permit driving.
You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person, bring specific documents (usually a birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security card), and pay a fee.
For a driver license, you must pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test; for an ID card, you do not take any tests.
Processing times vary by state but typically range from same-day issuance to two weeks for mail delivery.
Renewal requirements and fees differ by state and by document type, so check your state's DMV website for your specific situation.

Documents you will need to bring

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but the categories are consistent. For identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, passport, or previous driver license. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address — it typically must be dated within the last 60 days. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return.

You will also need to bring your current out-of-state driver license if you have one, or a completed process form (which your state's DMV provides online or at the office). Some states require proof of citizenship or legal residency status — usually a passport, naturalization certificate, or visa. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because document requirements vary and bringing the wrong papers means a wasted trip.

The written test for a driver license

If you are getting a driver license, you must pass a written knowledge test that covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test is administered at the DMV office on a computer or on paper, depending on your state. You typically get one or two attempts on the same day; if you fail, you can usually retake it after a waiting period (often a few days to a week). The test covers material in your state's driver manual, which is free and available online or at the DMV.

Most states require a score of 80 percent or higher to pass. The test usually has 30 to 50 questions and takes 20 to 30 minutes. You can study the manual at your own pace before you go to the DMV. Many states also offer practice tests online so you can see the format and types of questions before the real test. If you fail, you do not lose your process fee — you straightforward retake the test.

The driving skills test for a driver license

After you pass the written test, you must pass a practical driving test that shows you can safely operate a vehicle. You will drive a car (usually your own, though some states allow you to use a DMV vehicle) with a DMV examiner in the passenger seat. The test typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes and covers basic maneuvers like starting, stopping, turning, parking, and lane changes. The examiner watches for safe speed, proper signaling, awareness of other traffic, and correct use of mirrors and controls.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current. Some states require the vehicle to pass a safety inspection before the test. You can usually schedule the driving test in advance, though wait times vary by location and season. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period, usually one to two weeks.

Getting an ID card without a driving test

If you do not drive or do not want a driver license, you can get a state ID card instead. The process process is identical to a driver license — you bring the same documents, fill out the same form, and pay a fee — but you skip both the written test and the driving test. You will have your photograph taken at the DMV, and your card will be issued the same day or mailed within one to two weeks, depending on your state.

An ID card is useful if you need a government-issued photo ID for banking, travel, age verification, or other purposes but do not need driving authority. Some people get both a driver license and an ID card as backup identification. The fee for an ID card is usually lower than for a driver license, and renewal is simpler because there are no tests to retake.

Fees, processing times, and where to go

Driver license and ID card fees vary significantly by state. A driver license typically costs between $20 and $100 for a first-time issuance, depending on the length of validity (usually four to eight years). An ID card usually costs $10 to $50. Renewal fees are often lower than initial issuance. Some states charge extra for expedited processing or for documents that expire sooner.

Processing time depends on whether you want your document mailed or issued on the spot. Many states issue a temporary paper license the same day and mail the plastic card within one to two weeks. Some states issue the card when ready at the office. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times, because they fluctuate. You must visit a DMV office in person — you cannot complete this process entirely by mail or online. Find your nearest office on your state's DMV website and check whether you need an appointment or can walk in.

Renewing your driver license or ID card

Renewal requirements depend on your state and the type of document. Most states allow you to renew by mail, online, or in person, though the options vary. Some states require you to renew in person every other cycle to update your photograph. Renewal fees are usually lower than the initial fee. You typically renew before your card expires, though some states give you a grace period of 30 to 90 days after expiration.

Check your state's DMV website for your renewal important date — it is printed on your card. Some states send renewal notices in the mail; others do not. If you have changed your name, address, or other information since your last issuance, you may need to visit the DMV in person rather than renewing by mail. If your card is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement at the DMV, usually for a smaller fee than renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Requirements vary by state. Some states issue driver licenses to people without a Social Security number but require an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other federal identification. Others require a Social Security number. Contact your state's DMV directly to learn what documents you can bring instead.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after a waiting period, usually one to two weeks. There is typically a fee for each attempt. You do not lose your process or your written test pass. You can practice driving and schedule another test whenever you are ready.

How long does a driver license or ID card last?

Validity periods vary by state and by age. Most states issue licenses valid for four to eight years. Some states issue shorter validity periods for people under 21 or over 65. Your card will show the expiration date. Check your state's DMV website for the specific validity period in your state.

Can I use an ID card instead of a driver license for travel?

A state ID card is acceptable for domestic air travel within the United States if it is REAL ID compliant (marked with a star or indicator). However, it is not accepted for international travel. For international travel, you need a passport. Check the TSA website or your state's DMV to confirm whether your ID card is REAL ID compliant.

What should I do if my driver license or ID card is lost or stolen?

Report it to your state's DMV as soon as possible. You can usually report it online or by phone. Then visit a DMV office to request a replacement. There is typically a fee for a replacement card, which is lower than the fee for a new issuance. You will need to bring proof of identity and residency again.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.