How to Apply for a Driver License or Identification Card

What You Need to Do Before You Walk Into the DMV

You will need to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The exact documents depend on which state you are in and whether you are explore for a driver license or an identification card. Both require the same proof of identity and residency, but a driver license also requires you to pass a written test and a driving test.

Start by gathering your documents now, before you schedule your appointment or visit the DMV. If you show up without the right paperwork, the DMV will turn you away and you will have to return another day. Most states let you check their DMV website to see the full list of acceptable documents for your situation.

An identification card is not a driver license. It proves who you are and where you live, but it does not give you permission to drive. You would get an ID card if you do not drive or do not want a driver license. Both documents cost money, both expire after a set number of years, and both require you to renew them periodically.

Key Takeaways

You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to any DMV process — missing even one document will result in rejection.
A driver license requires you to pass a written knowledge test and a driving test; an identification card requires neither.
The documents the DMV will accept vary by state, so check your state DMV website before you gather anything.
You will pay a fee at the time of process, and the amount depends on your state and the type of document you are getting.
Your new license or ID card will arrive by mail within two to four weeks in most states, though some states offer same-day issuance at certain locations.

Documents You Must Bring

Every state requires three categories of proof: identity, residency, and Social Security number. You cannot complete your process without all three. The DMV will not accept expired documents for identity or residency, though some states make exceptions for military ID or passport.

For identity, the DMV typically accepts a passport, birth certificate, military ID, or state ID from another state. Some states also accept a school ID or tribal ID if it has your photo. Check your state's DMV website for the full list, because what one state accepts another may not.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document usually must be dated within the last 60 days. If you have just moved and do not have a bill in your new name yet, some states will accept a letter from your landlord or a signed affidavit.

For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number visible. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration — the DMV cannot issue you a license or ID without it.

explore for a Driver License vs. an Identification Card

The process process is nearly identical for both, except that a driver license requires testing and an ID card does not. If you are explore for a driver license, you will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and then a practical driving test with a DMV examiner. If you are explore for an ID card, you will fill out the form, provide your documents, have your photo taken, and leave.

Some states let you take the written test online before you go to the DMV, which can save time on the day of your appointment. Other states require you to take it at the DMV office. Check your state's website to see if online testing is available.

The driving test usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping. You must use your own vehicle or a vehicle you have permission to use, and it must be registered and insured. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after a waiting period — usually one week to one month, depending on the state.

If you already hold a valid driver license from another state, many states will let you transfer it without retaking the tests. This is called a license transfer or reciprocal license. You will still need to provide proof of residency in your new state and pay the fee.

The process Form and Fees

Every state uses its own process form, usually called the Driver License process or process for Identification Card. You can read it from your state DMV website and fill it out at home, or you can fill it out at the DMV office. Filling it out ahead of time will speed up your visit.

The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and whether you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive. Be honest about medical conditions — the DMV may require a doctor's statement for certain conditions, and lying on the form can result in your license being suspended.

Fees vary widely by state and by document type. A driver license typically costs between $20 and $100, and an identification card typically costs between $10 and $50. Some states charge more if you want your license to be valid for longer — for example, a four-year license might cost less than an eight-year license. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee before you go, and bring cash or a debit card, because not all DMV offices accept credit cards.

How to Schedule Your Appointment

Most states now require you to schedule an appointment before you visit the DMV, rather than showing up and waiting in line. You can usually schedule online through your state DMV website, by phone, or through a third-party scheduling service. Some states use their own website; others use a service like DMV.com or Appointment Plus.

Appointment slots fill up quickly, especially in urban areas. If you cannot find an appointment in your city, try nearby towns or counties — you can usually explore at any DMV office in your state, not just the one closest to you. Some states also have mobile DMV units that visit different locations on different days.

When you schedule, you will choose whether you are explore for a driver license or an ID card, and the system will tell you what documents to bring. Write down your appointment confirmation number and the date and time. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, and bring all your documents in a folder so they do not get lost or damaged.

What Happens on the Day of Your Appointment

Bring all your documents, your completed process form (if you filled it out at home), and your fee payment. The DMV staff will check your documents to make sure they are acceptable, ask you to sign the process, take your photo, and collect your fee. This part usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you are explore for a driver license, you will then take the written test. You will sit at a computer or paper test station and answer questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. The test usually has 30 to 50 questions, and you must get a certain percentage correct — usually 70 to 80 percent — to pass. If you pass, you will be given a temporary permit that lets you drive with a licensed driver in the car while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail.

If you pass the written test, you will schedule your driving test for another day. The driving test cannot happen on the same day as the written test in most states. You will be given a date and time, and you will need to bring your own vehicle, proof of insurance, and your temporary permit.

If you are explore for an ID card, you are done after the photo and fee. Your card will arrive by mail within two to four weeks.

After Your process Is Submitted

Your new driver license or identification card will be mailed to the address you provided on your process. Delivery usually takes two to four weeks, though some states offer expedited mail for an extra fee. A few states have locations where you can pick up your license the same day, but this is not common.

While you wait for your permanent license, you can use your temporary permit to drive (if you passed the written test) or you can use your old ID from another state. Do not throw away your old license until your new one arrives.

If your new license does not arrive after four weeks, contact your state DMV to check the status. Occasionally mail gets lost, and the DMV can reissue it. If you need to drive before your license arrives and your temporary permit has expired, you may be able to get a replacement temporary permit at the DMV office.

Common Mistakes That Delay Your process

Bringing incomplete documents is the most common reason applications are rejected. The DMV will not accept a utility bill if it is more than 60 days old, a birth certificate if it is not certified, or a pay stub if it does not show your full Social Security number. Check your state's requirements before you go, not after you arrive.

Filling out the process form incorrectly will also cause delays. Write your name exactly as it appears on your birth certificate or passport, even if you spell it differently now. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring a marriage certificate or court order along with your other documents.

Failing the written test is not a permanent problem, but it does delay you. You can retake it after a waiting period, usually one week. Study the driver manual before you take the test — your state DMV website has a free online version, and many libraries have printed copies.

Not scheduling an appointment in advance will waste your time. Walk-ins are not accepted at most DMV offices, and you will be turned away if you show up without an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Every state requires a Social Security number to issue a driver license or identification card. If you do not have one, you must explore through the Social Security Administration first. This process takes several weeks, so plan ahead.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it after a waiting period, usually one week to one month depending on your state. You do not have to retake the written test. Schedule your next driving test through the DMV website or by phone, and practice before you try again.

Can I explore for a driver license online?

No state allows you to complete the entire process online. You must visit a DMV office in person to have your photo taken and to take the written test (if explore for a driver license). Some states let you fill out the form and schedule your appointment online, which saves time.

How long is a driver license or ID card valid?

It depends on your state and your age. Most states issue licenses valid for four to eight years. Some states issue shorter licenses to people under 21. Check your state DMV website for the specific validity period.

What if my address changes after I get my license?

You must update your address with the DMV. Most states let you do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Some states charge a small fee for address changes, and others do it for free. Check your state DMV website for the process.

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.