How to Get a California DL 44 Identification Card

What a DL 44 is and who can get one

A DL 44 is California's identification card for people who do not drive or choose not to get a driver's license. It is issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and works as a state ID for everyday purposes — showing your age at a store, boarding a domestic flight, or opening a bank account. The card looks similar to a driver's license but says "Identification Card" instead of "Driver License" at the top.

You can get a DL 44 if you are a California resident and at least 13 years old. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign your process. You do not need to pass a driving test or vision test, though you will still need to provide proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a driver's license.

Key Takeaways

A DL 44 is a state identification card from California's DMV that does not require a driving test and works for age verification and travel.
You must bring proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number to the DMV.
The DMV will take your photo and fingerprints at your appointment, and the card arrives by mail in about two weeks.
The DL 44 costs less than a driver's license and is valid for six years if you are 18 or older, or four years if you are under 18.
You can make a DMV appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or by phone, and walk-in service is available but often involves longer waits.

Documents you need to bring

The DMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of California residency, and your Social Security number. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work for most documents.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or a valid foreign passport. If you are under 18, a school ID or report card with your name and date of birth can work as a second form of ID, but you still need one of the primary documents listed above.

For proof of residency, bring a recent document showing your California address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you live with someone else and do not have a bill in your name, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus their ID, can substitute.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a DL 44, but you will need to fill out Form SS-5 at the DMV to explore for one.

Steps to explore at the DMV

Start by making an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133. The website lets you choose your local DMV office and see available appointment times. Appointments are free and usually available within a few weeks. If you cannot wait, walk-in service is available at most offices, but expect a longer wait.

On the day of your appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. A DMV representative will check your paperwork, ask you to sign the process form (Form DL 44), and take your photo and fingerprints. The whole process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You will pay the fee at this time — as of 2024, a DL 44 costs $38 if you are 18 or older, or $24 if you are under 18. Fees may vary, so check dmv.ca.gov for the current amount.

After your appointment, the DMV will mail your card to the address you provided. Standard delivery takes about two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper ID that you can use when ready if you need proof of identity before the card arrives. Keep this paper ID safe — you will need it if you travel or need to show ID while waiting for the card.

What happens if documents are missing or incorrect

If you arrive at the DMV without all required documents, the staff will tell you what is missing and you will need to reschedule. Bringing incomplete paperwork wastes your appointment slot and delays your ID. Before you go, check the DMV website or call to confirm which documents your situation requires — rules can differ slightly depending on your age or immigration status.

If a document has an error — for example, your name is spelled differently on two forms — bring a certified copy or an official letter from the issuing agency explaining the discrepancy. The DMV staff can often resolve minor issues on the spot, but major problems may require you to get corrected documents first.

Renewing or replacing your DL 44

A DL 44 is valid for six years if you are 18 or older, or four years if you are under 18. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. You can renew online through dmv.ca.gov if your card is not damaged, your address has not changed, and you have not had any name changes since it was issued. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about two weeks by mail.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to go to the DMV in person to get a replacement. Bring your documents again, along with a police report if your card was stolen. A replacement card costs the same as a new one and arrives by mail in about two weeks.

Using your DL 44 for travel and other purposes

A DL 44 is accepted as a valid ID for domestic air travel within the United States. You can use it to board flights, though you may also be asked for a second form of ID. It is also accepted at banks, retail stores, and government offices for age verification and identity confirmation.

A DL 44 is not accepted for international travel — you will need a passport for that. It also does not allow you to drive or operate a vehicle. If you later decide to drive, you will need to get a driver's license instead, which requires a driving test and vision test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a DL 44 if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. California issues DL 44 cards to all residents regardless of immigration status. You will need to provide proof of identity and residency, which can include a foreign passport and a lease or utility bill. Bring all documents to your appointment.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get a DL 44. At your DMV appointment, ask for Form SS-5 to explore for a Social Security number at the same time. The DMV will help you complete it, and you will receive your number separately from the Social Security Administration.

How long does it take to get my DL 44 after my appointment?

The card arrives by mail in about two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper ID at your appointment that you can use when ready for age verification or travel. Check the status of your card online at dmv.ca.gov using your driver's license or ID number.

Can I renew my DL 44 online?

Yes, if your card is not damaged, your address has not changed, and you have not had a name change. Go to dmv.ca.gov and follow the online renewal process. It costs less than in-person renewal and takes about two weeks by mail.

What if I move to a different state?

Your California DL 44 remains valid until it expires. If you move permanently and become a resident of another state, you will need to get an ID from that state's motor vehicle department. Your California card will no longer be accepted as proof of residency in your new state.

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.