What an ID card and driver's license are, and how they differ
An ID card and a driver's license are both government-issued documents that prove who you are, but they serve different purposes. A driver's 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. An ID card is also issued by your state but does not grant driving privileges — it exists solely as proof of identity and age.
The key difference is function. A driver's license says "this person can drive." An ID card says "this person is who they claim to be." Both contain your photograph, signature, date of birth, and a unique identification number. Both are accepted as proof of identity for most purposes: opening a bank account, boarding a domestic flight, voting, or entering age-restricted venues.
In practice, a driver's license works as an ID card everywhere an ID card is accepted. The reverse is not true — you cannot use an ID card to legally drive. If you do not drive or do not want a driver's license, getting a state ID card is a straightforward alternative that carries the same identity-verification weight.
Key Takeaways
- A driver's license proves you can legally drive; an ID card proves your identity only and does not permit driving.
- Both documents are issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and contain your photo, signature, and date of birth.
- A driver's license is accepted as proof of identity almost everywhere an ID card is, but an ID card cannot be used to drive.
- Getting a state ID card takes the same steps as getting a driver's license and costs roughly the same amount, which varies by state.
- You will need proof of citizenship or legal residency, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to obtain either document.
What documents you need to bring to get an ID card or driver's license
Every state requires the same basic categories of proof, though the specific documents accepted vary slightly. You will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your date of birth, and proof of your current address. Most states also require proof that you are a U.S. citizen or have legal residency status.
For proof of identity, most states accept a passport, a birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or a prior driver's license or ID card. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub with your full number visible. For your date of birth, a birth certificate or passport works. For your current address, bring a utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement dated within the last 60 days — the exact timeframe varies by state.
If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to prove your citizenship or legal residency. A passport works for this. If you do not have a passport, a certificate of naturalization, a green card, or an employment authorization document (EAD) will work. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states accept additional documents and some have stricter rules about how recent documents must be.
How the process process works at your state's DMV
The process is nearly identical whether you are getting a driver's license or an ID card. You visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office in person, bring the documents listed above, fill out an process form (usually Form DL-44 or its state equivalent), and pay a fee. The fee for an ID card typically ranges from $15 to $30, depending on your state. A driver's license costs roughly the same.
At your appointment, a DMV employee will verify your documents, check them against state and federal databases, and take your photograph and signature. You will also take a vision test — even for an ID card, because your state needs to confirm you can see well enough to be in public spaces safely. If you are getting a driver's license, you will also take a written test on traffic laws and a driving test, either at that visit or at a scheduled appointment later.
Most states now allow you to schedule an appointment online before you go, which significantly reduces wait times. Some states also offer online pre-process, where you fill out the form at home and bring it completed. Check your state's DMV website to see what options are available where you live.
How long it takes to receive your ID card or driver's license
If you pass all tests and your documents are in order, you will receive a temporary paper ID or license on the spot. This temporary document is valid for driving (if you got a license) and for proof of identity. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 1 to 3 weeks in most states, though some states take up to 6 weeks.
If the DMV finds a problem with your documents — for example, your address proof is too old, or your name does not match across documents — they will tell you what is missing and give you a important date to return with the correct paperwork. This can add 1 to 2 weeks to the process. If you fail the written or driving test, you can retake it, usually within a few days to a week.
Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, usually $10 to $25, which can cut the mail time in half. This is worth considering if you need the card urgently for travel or employment.
Renewing or replacing an ID card or driver's license
Renewal is simpler than the initial process. Most states allow you to renew by mail or online without visiting the DMV office. You will need to submit a renewal form, pay the renewal fee (usually $20 to $40), and provide updated information if anything has changed — such as your address or name.
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to visit the DMV in person to report it and request a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and address again. The replacement fee is usually $10 to $20, and you will receive a temporary document when ready and a permanent replacement by mail within 1 to 3 weeks.
Driver's licenses and ID cards expire at different intervals depending on your state and your age. Most states issue licenses valid for 4 to 8 years. Some states issue shorter validity periods for people under 21. Check your card to see your expiration date, and renew before it expires — an expired ID is not accepted as proof of identity for most purposes.
Real-world uses for an ID card or driver's license
A driver's license or state ID card is the most widely accepted form of government-issued photo ID in the United States. Banks require it to open an account. Airlines require it for domestic flights (a passport works too, but a driver's license is faster). Employers require it as part of the I-9 employment verification process. Landlords almost always ask for it before signing a lease.
Both documents are also accepted for age verification at bars, liquor stores, and other age-restricted venues. Police may ask for it during a traffic stop or other encounter. Some states now use driver's licenses and ID cards as proof of citizenship for voter registration, though this is changing and varies by state.
If you do not drive, a state ID card serves all these purposes except driving. Many people who do not own a car get an ID card specifically because it is cheaper and simpler than a driver's license, and it works for nearly every situation where you need to prove who you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an ID card or driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Most states require a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to issue a driver's license or ID card. If you do not have either, contact your state's DMV to ask about exceptions. Some states have alternative processes for people without a Social Security number, but they are uncommon.
What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?
Bring both your birth certificate and a document showing the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will verify that the name on your process matches the current legal name on file. If the documents do not clearly show the connection, the DMV may ask for additional proof.
Can I use my ID card or driver's license to fly internationally?
No. A U.S. driver's license or state ID card is not accepted for international travel. You will need a passport or passport card. A driver's license works for domestic flights within the United States only.
What happens if I move to a different state?
You are required to get a new driver's license or ID card from your new state within a set timeframe — usually 30 to 60 days after moving. Bring your old license, proof of your new address, and proof of your Social Security number. Your old state's license remains valid for travel and identification until it expires, but you cannot legally drive in your new state on an out-of-state license.
How much does it cost to get a driver's license or ID card?
The cost varies significantly by state. An ID card typically costs $15 to $30, and a driver's license costs $20 to $50. Some states charge more for longer validity periods. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee in your area.