What you need to bring and where to go

Most states require you to visit your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person to get a permit, driver license, or non-driver ID. You cannot complete this entirely by mail or online, though some states let you start the process online or renew certain documents remotely.

The documents you bring depend on which one you are getting and your state's rules. All three require proof of identity and proof of residency. A permit and driver license also require proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. A non-driver ID typically requires the same identity and residency proof but may have different citizenship rules depending on your state.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will examine them in person. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your state's DMV or equivalent office in person; the exact location depends on your county or region.
  • Bring original documents proving your identity, residency, and citizenship status — photocopies are not accepted.
  • A permit requires a written test; a driver license requires both a written test and a driving test; a non-driver ID requires neither.
  • Fees vary by state and document type, ranging from roughly $20 to $150, and payment methods differ by location.
  • Processing time is usually same-day for a permit or non-driver ID, but a driver license may take several weeks to arrive by mail.

Documents you need for each type

Proof of identity can be a birth certificate, passport, consular ID, or state ID. Some states accept a school ID or employee ID if paired with another document. Check your state's DMV website for the full list of acceptable documents.

Proof of residency is usually a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though this varies. A driver license or ID from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Proof of citizenship or lawful residency is required for a permit and driver license but not always for a non-driver ID. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, passport, permanent resident card (green card), employment authorization document (EAD), or visa. Some states accept a consular ID or a document from your country of origin paired with a visa or travel document.

Social Security number is required in all states for a driver license or permit. For a non-driver ID, most states require it, but a few allow you to decline and mark the ID as non-driving. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a tax return or W-2.

What happens at the DMV office

When you arrive, you will check in and receive a number or be called by name. A staff member will review your documents, verify they are authentic, and record your information into the DMV system. They will ask you to sign a form confirming the information is correct.

For a permit, you will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The test is usually multiple choice and administered on a computer or paper. You must pass to receive your permit. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day, depending on your state's policy.

For a driver license, you will take the same written test as for a permit. If you pass, you will then take a driving test with a DMV examiner. The driving test usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, turning, parking, and stopping. You must pass both tests to receive your license.

For a non-driver ID, there are no tests. The staff member will take your photo and issue the ID on the spot or mail it to you within a few days.

Fees and payment methods

Fees vary significantly by state and by document type. A permit typically costs between $20 and $50. A driver license ranges from $30 to $150 depending on how long it is valid (usually 4 to 8 years). A non-driver ID usually costs $15 to $50. Some states charge extra for a Real ID-compliant document, which is required for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight.

Most DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some accept checks or money orders. A few states require payment by card only. Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm what they accept.

If you cannot afford the fee, some states offer fee waivers or reductions for people with low income. Ask the DMV staff whether your state has this program and what documents you need to show.

How long it takes to get your document

A permit is usually issued the same day you pass the written test. You will receive a paper temporary permit valid for a set period (often 6 months to 1 year) while your official permit is printed and mailed.

A driver license takes longer. You will receive a paper temporary license the day you pass both tests. Your official plastic license is printed at a central facility and mailed to your address, which usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. In some states it can take up to 8 weeks. If you need to drive before it arrives, the temporary license is valid.

A non-driver ID may be issued the same day or mailed within a few days, depending on your state. Ask the DMV staff which applies to you.

Real ID and federal compliance

A Real ID is a driver license or non-driver ID that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building, even if you have a passport.

Most states now issue Real ID-compliant licenses and IDs automatically, but some still issue non-compliant versions by default. When you explore, ask whether the document you are getting is Real ID-compliant. If it is not and you need it to be, you may be able to request it at the DMV or pay a small fee for an upgrade.

A Real ID requires the same documents as a regular driver license or non-driver ID, plus proof of your Social Security number. The process is the same; the main difference is the security features on the card itself.

What to do if you fail the written or driving test

If you fail the written test for a permit or driver license, you can retake it. Most states let you retake it the same day or within a few days. Some charge a small fee for each retake; others do not. Ask the DMV staff about your state's policy.

If you fail the driving test, you must wait a set period before retaking it — usually 1 to 7 days depending on your state. You may need to pay a retake fee. You can take the test as many times as needed until you pass.

While you are waiting to retake a test, your temporary permit or license remains valid, so you can continue to drive (if you have a permit, only with a licensed adult in the car, depending on your state's rules).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit, driver license, or non-driver ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, consular ID, or other government-issued ID as proof of identity. Some states accept a combination of documents, such as a school ID plus a medical record. Contact your state's DMV to ask which documents they will accept in your situation.

What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?

If you recently moved or live with someone else, bring a lease, utility bill, or bank statement in your name. If nothing is in your name, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, confirming you live there. A few states accept an affidavit of residency signed by a notary. Call your DMV office to ask what they will accept.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a non-driver ID?

Most states require it, but a few allow you to decline and mark the ID as non-driving. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact your state's DMV to ask whether you can get a non-driver ID without one.

Can I renew my permit, driver license, or non-driver ID by mail or online?

Many states let you renew a driver license or non-driver ID online or by mail if you are renewing early and have not had a major change (like a new address or name). A permit usually cannot be renewed by mail; you must visit the DMV in person. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents can be renewed remotely.

What if I lost my permit or driver license before it arrived?

Contact your state's DMV and ask for a replacement. You will usually need to pay a replacement fee and may need to visit the office in person or request it by mail. The replacement will be mailed to you. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask whether the DMV can issue a temporary replacement.