The cost of an advanced driver's license varies by state, but typically ranges from $20 to $100 for the license itself, plus any fees for the required knowledge or skills test
An advanced driver's license (sometimes called an enhanced license or REAL ID-compliant license) is a standard state driver's license that meets federal identification standards. It costs more than a regular license because it requires additional verification steps and documents at the DMV.
The exact price depends on your state and whether you're renewing an existing license or getting one for the first time. Some states bundle the advanced license cost into their standard license fee, while others charge a separate upgrade fee. A few states offer it at no extra cost if you bring the right documents.
Beyond the license fee itself, you may also pay for the knowledge test (if required in your state), the skills test, or replacement documents like a certified birth certificate or passport if you don't already have them. These supporting documents can add $10 to $50 or more to your total cost.
Key Takeaways
- An advanced driver's license costs between $20 and $100 in most states, depending on whether it's a new license or a renewal.
- The higher cost covers the extra identity verification the DMV must perform to meet federal REAL ID standards.
- You will need to bring original or certified documents like a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address to may have access to.
- Some states charge the same fee for a regular license and an advanced license, while others add $15 to $30 on top of the standard fee.
- If you don't have the required documents, the cost of obtaining them (such as a certified birth certificate) can exceed the license fee itself.
Why an advanced license costs more than a regular one
A regular driver's license in most states does not meet federal identification standards set by the Real ID Act. An advanced license does, which means the DMV has to verify your identity more thoroughly. This takes staff time and resources, which is why states charge more for it.
The federal government does not reimburse states for this extra work, so states pass the cost to the person getting the license. The fee covers the additional document review, background checks, and the find printing of the license itself, which includes security features that a standard license may not have.
What documents you need to bring and what they cost
To get an advanced driver's license, you must bring original documents or certified copies. The DMV will not accept photocopies or digital images. Here is what you typically need:
- Proof of identity: a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization document
- Proof of Social Security number: your Social Security card or a tax return
- Proof of address: a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days
- Proof of state residency: often the same document as proof of address
If you do not have a birth certificate, you will need to order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This typically costs $15 to $35 and takes one to three weeks. If you need it faster, expedited processing can cost an additional $10 to $25. A passport costs $130 to $165 for a new one and takes four to six weeks through the mail, or you can pay extra for expedited service.
If you have moved recently and your address on file with the DMV is outdated, bring a current utility bill or lease. If you do not have one in your name, some states will accept a letter from your landlord or a mortgage statement.
How the cost differs between new licenses and renewals
A new advanced driver's license typically costs more than a renewal because the DMV must perform a full identity verification. New licenses often cost $40 to $100, while renewals may cost $20 to $60, depending on your state.
When you renew, the DMV already has your information on file, so the verification process is faster. However, some states charge the same fee for both new and renewal licenses. A few states offer discounts if you renew online or by mail instead of in person, though an advanced license usually requires an in-person visit.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you may have to pay a reinstatement fee in addition to the license fee when you reapply. This fee varies widely by state and reason for suspension, ranging from $50 to $500 or more.
State-by-state cost examples
Because each state sets its own fees, the cost of an advanced driver's license varies significantly. Here are some examples of how different states structure their fees:
| State | Advanced License Fee | Regular License Fee | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $36 | $36 | No extra charge |
| Texas | $60 | $60 | No extra charge |
| New York | $65 | $65 | No extra charge |
| Florida | $87 | $75 | $12 extra |
| Ohio | $38 | $33 | $5 extra |
| Pennsylvania | $40 | $35 | $5 extra |
These fees change periodically, and some states have different rates for different age groups or license types. Check your state's DMV website for the most current fees before you visit.
When you might pay extra fees on top of the license cost
Several situations can add to the total cost of getting an advanced driver's license. If you fail the knowledge test, you may have to pay a retest fee, typically $5 to $20. If you fail the skills test, the retest fee is usually $10 to $50.
If you need a duplicate or replacement license because yours was lost or stolen, you will pay a replacement fee in addition to the license fee. This is usually $10 to $30. If you change your name due to marriage or court order, some states charge a name-change fee on top of the license fee, while others waive it.
If you need to take the test in a language other than English, some states charge a translation or interpreter fee. If you use a third-party service to obtain your documents or help you prepare for the test, those services charge their own fees, which are separate from the DMV fee.
How to find out the exact cost in your state
The fastest way to find the exact fee for your state is to visit your state's DMV website and search for "advanced driver's license fee" or "REAL ID license fee." Most state DMV sites have a fee schedule that lists the cost for new licenses, renewals, and replacements.
You can also call your local DMV office or visit in person to ask about the fee. Some DMV offices have printed fee schedules at the counter. If you are unsure whether you need an advanced license or a regular one, the DMV staff can tell you which one you need and what it will cost.
Keep in mind that some states are phasing out regular licenses and moving everyone to advanced licenses, so the distinction may disappear in your state within the next few years. If that is the case, the fee for a new license will eventually be the same as the advanced license fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get an advanced driver's license, or can I stick with a regular one?
It depends on your state and what you plan to use your license for. If you want to use your driver's license as identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building, you need an advanced license. If you only need it to drive, a regular license is usually fine. However, some states are phasing out regular licenses entirely, so check your state's DMV website to see what your options are.
Can I get an advanced driver's license by mail or online?
No. An advanced driver's license requires an in-person visit to the DMV so they can verify your identity and documents. You cannot renew an advanced license by mail or online, even if your state allows it for regular licenses. You must bring your original documents to the DMV office.
What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?
You can order a certified birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This usually costs $15 to $35 and takes one to three weeks. Alternatively, you can explore for a U.S. passport, which costs $130 to $165 and takes four to six weeks. Some states accept other documents like a naturalization certificate or a consular report of birth abroad.
Will I have to pay the full license fee again if I renew?
Yes, you will pay the renewal fee when your license expires. The renewal fee is usually lower than the fee for a new license, but you will still have to pay it. The fee covers the cost of printing the new license and updating your information in the DMV system.
What happens if I fail the knowledge or skills test?
You will have to pay a retest fee to try again, typically $5 to $20 for the knowledge test and $10 to $50 for the skills test. The retest fee is separate from the license fee. Most states let you retake the test within a certain number of days, such as 7 to 30 days, without having to reapply.