What You Need to Get or Renew a Driver License in 2025

Driver license requirements vary by state, but most states now require proof of identity, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or tax ID

Every state sets its own rules for who can get a driver license and what documents you need to bring. There is no single federal requirement. That said, most states follow a similar pattern: you show up with proof of who you are, proof of where you live, proof of your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and you pass a written test and a driving test. Some states have added extra steps in recent years, like taking a photo or providing a thumbprint, but the core documents stay the same.

The biggest change since 2020 is that many states now require what is called REAL ID compliance for certain uses — mainly flying domestically or entering a federal building. If your state has not already switched, it may do so in 2025. A REAL ID license looks like a regular license but has a small star in the corner. Getting one usually means bringing one extra document, like a birth certificate or passport, but the process is otherwise the same as a regular renewal.

Key Takeaways

You will need a government-issued photo ID (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of your current address, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN.
Most states require you to pass a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test before you receive a license.
REAL ID is now required in most states for flying domestically or entering federal buildings, and your state may enforce this requirement in 2025.
Renewal rules differ from new license rules — some states let you renew by mail or online if your license is not expired, while others require you to come in person.
Processing times vary widely by state and by how busy your local DMV is; some states process licenses in days, others in weeks.

What documents you need to bring

The documents fall into three categories: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website lists exactly which documents count in each category, because the rules are specific.

For proof of identity, most states accept a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate, a state ID card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Some states also accept a foreign passport if you are not yet a citizen. For proof of residency, most states accept a utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government letter with your name and address — it usually has to be dated within the last 60 days. For proof of your Social Security number, you can bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a bank statement that shows your number.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN instead. You will need to bring the letter from the IRS that assigned you the ITIN, or a tax return that shows it. Some states also accept a state ID number or a driver license number from another state.

Getting your first license versus renewing

If you have never had a driver license, you will need to take both a written test and a driving test. The written test covers traffic laws and road signs — your state's DMV publishes a study guide online, and you can take practice tests on most state DMV websites. The driving test is usually 15 to 30 minutes long and happens on local roads with an examiner in the car. You need to bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the DMV, depending on your state.

If you are renewing an existing license, the process is usually shorter. Many states now let you renew online or by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had any major changes (like a new address or a change in medical status). Some states require you to come in person every other renewal cycle, usually every 8 to 10 years. A few states require you to come in person every time. Check your state's DMV website to see which option applies to you.

If your license has been expired for more than a certain period — usually one to five years, depending on your state — you may have to retake the written test or the driving test, or both. Some states waive the driving test if you have held a license before and it has only been expired for a short time.

REAL ID and what it means for you

REAL ID is a federal standard that states can choose to follow. It does not change what a license looks like much — it just adds a small gold or silver star in the upper right corner. The reason it exists is that the federal government wanted a way to make sure that the identity documents states issue are verified to a certain standard.

Starting in 2025, you will need a REAL ID license (or a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID) to fly domestically within the United States or to enter a federal building like a courthouse or a military base. If your state has not switched to REAL ID yet, it may do so in 2025 — check your state's DMV website to see the current status. If you want a REAL ID license, you usually need to bring one extra document beyond the standard three categories: a birth certificate, a passport, a military discharge paper, or a naturalization certificate. The process is otherwise the same as a regular license or renewal.

If you do not want a REAL ID license, you can still get a regular license. You just will not be able to use it to fly domestically or enter federal buildings after the important date. You can still use it to drive, to prove your age, or to open a bank account.

Fees and processing times

Driver license fees vary by state and by the type of license. A first-time license usually costs between $20 and $150, depending on how long it is valid for and whether you are getting REAL ID. A renewal usually costs less than a first-time license. Some states charge extra for a REAL ID license; others do not. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Processing times also vary. If you explore in person at a DMV office, you may get your license the same day or within a few days. If you renew by mail or online, it usually takes one to three weeks. During busy times of year — like right after a holiday or at the start of a new school year — wait times can be longer. Some states let you check wait times online before you go to the DMV.

What to do if you have lost or damaged your license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement. In most states, you can do this in person at a DMV office or by mail. You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency, just like for a renewal. Some states charge a small fee for a replacement; others do not. If your license was stolen, some states ask you to file a police report first, though this is not always required.

If you are replacing a license because it was stolen, you may want to ask the DMV to flag your old license number so that someone else cannot use it. Some states do this automatically; others require you to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport to get a driver license?

No. A passport is one option for proof of identity, but you can also use a birth certificate, a state ID, a military ID, or a tribal ID. Your state's DMV website lists all the documents that count as proof of identity in your state.

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

It depends on your state and on your situation. Most states let you renew online or by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had major changes. Some states require you to come in person every few years. Check your state's DMV website to see which option applies to you.

What happens if my license expires while I am waiting for a renewal?

In most states, if you have submitted a renewal process before your license expires, you can legally drive while you wait for the new one to arrive. Some states send you a temporary paper license or a receipt that proves you have applied. Check your state's rules before you drive.

Do I need REAL ID to drive?

No. REAL ID is only required for flying domestically or entering federal buildings. You can still drive with a regular license. If you do not fly or enter federal buildings, you do not need REAL ID.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need to bring the IRS letter that assigned you the ITIN, or a tax return that shows it. Some states also accept other forms of ID number. Contact your state's DMV to ask what documents they accept.

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.