What's the difference between an ID card and a driver's license

An ID card and a driver's license are two separate documents issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A driver's license proves you passed a driving test and are legally permitted to operate a vehicle. An ID card proves your identity and age but does not give you permission to drive. Both are government-issued photo IDs that work for things like boarding a plane, entering a federal building, or opening a bank account.

The choice between them depends on whether you drive. If you do not drive and only need proof of identity, an ID card costs less and requires no driving test. If you drive, you need a driver's license. Some people carry both — a driver's license for driving and an ID card as a backup photo ID.

Both documents can be either a standard ID or a Real ID. Real ID is a federal security standard that makes the card acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A standard ID card or driver's license will not work for these purposes as of May 7, 2025, unless you also have a passport or military ID.

Key Takeaways

  • An ID card proves identity only; a driver's license proves identity and your right to drive.
  • You need a driver's license to legally operate a vehicle; an ID card is sufficient if you do not drive.
  • Real ID is required for domestic air travel and federal building entry starting May 7, 2025, unless you have a passport or military ID.
  • Both ID cards and driver's licenses can be Real ID compliant, and both cost money to obtain or renew.
  • Your state's DMV issues both documents and sets the fees, which vary by state.

When you need an ID card instead of a driver's license

Get an ID card if you do not drive and need proof of identity. This applies to people who rely on public transportation, do not own a vehicle, or choose not to drive. An ID card works for most identity verification situations: entering bars or clubs, proving age to buy alcohol or tobacco, cashing checks, and opening bank accounts.

An ID card also works as a backup. Some people get both a driver's license and an ID card so they have a second photo ID if one is lost or damaged. This is practical if you travel frequently or need to prove identity in situations where a single lost document would leave you without any government photo ID.

ID cards are also useful for people who cannot pass a driving test due to disability, vision problems, or other reasons. In these cases, an ID card is the only government photo ID option available through the DMV.

When you need a driver's license

You need a driver's license to legally drive any vehicle on public roads. This is true even if you only drive occasionally or only on private property that is open to the public. Driving without a valid license is illegal and can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, and criminal charges.

A driver's license also serves as a photo ID for all the same purposes as an ID card — boarding planes, entering federal buildings, proving age, and opening accounts. Because it does both things, many people use their driver's license as their primary photo ID even when they do not need it for driving.

To get a driver's license, you must pass a written test on traffic laws and a practical driving test. The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. The driving test is administered by a DMV examiner who watches you operate a vehicle and evaluates your ability to control it safely.

Real ID requirements and what they mean for you

Real ID is a federal security standard created after 9/11. It requires states to verify your identity more thoroughly and issue cards with security features that are harder to counterfeit. Starting May 7, 2025, a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license or ID card will not be accepted for domestic air travel or entry to federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants.

Both ID cards and driver's licenses can be Real ID compliant. When you explore, you can choose to get a Real ID version or a standard version. Real ID versions cost slightly more and require you to bring additional documents to prove your identity, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address.

If you do not want a Real ID, you can still travel domestically by bringing a passport, passport card, military ID, or Enhanced Driver's License instead. These documents are accepted in place of Real ID. However, if you plan to fly or enter federal buildings regularly, getting a Real ID is simpler than carrying a passport.

How to get an ID card

Visit your state's DMV office in person with the required documents. You will need to bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of address (such as a utility bill or lease). Some states also require a completed process form, which you can read from the DMV website or fill out at the office.

You will have your photo taken at the DMV. The photo becomes part of your ID card. You will also pay a fee, which varies by state — typically between $15 and $50 for a standard ID card. Real ID versions cost more, usually $5 to $15 extra.

Processing time varies by state. Some states issue the card on the same day; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times and whether you need to make an appointment.

How to get a driver's license

First, get a learner's permit by visiting your DMV with proof of identity, Social Security number, and address. You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs. If you pass, you receive a learner's permit, which allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car. This permit is valid for a set period — usually six months to two years, depending on your state.

While you have the learner's permit, practice driving and prepare for the driving test. The driving test is administered by a DMV examiner and typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes. You will be asked to perform basic maneuvers such as parking, turning, stopping, and merging. The examiner watches for safe vehicle control and knowledge of traffic laws.

Once you pass the driving test, you can explore for your driver's license at the DMV. You will pay a fee — typically $20 to $100, depending on your state and how long the license is valid. Your driver's license is mailed to you or issued on the same day, depending on your state's process.

Cost differences between ID cards and driver's licenses

ID cards are cheaper than driver's licenses because they do not require a driving test or the administrative work of testing and licensing drivers. A standard ID card typically costs $15 to $50, while a driver's license typically costs $20 to $100. Real ID versions of either document cost $5 to $15 more.

Renewal costs are similar to initial issuance costs. Both ID cards and driver's licenses must be renewed periodically — usually every 4 to 10 years, depending on your state and age. Renewal by mail or online is often cheaper than in-person renewal.

If you need both an ID card and a driver's license, you will pay for both. However, some states offer a discount if you explore for both at the same time. Check your state's DMV website for current pricing and any available discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an ID card to drive?

No. An ID card does not give you legal permission to drive. You must have a valid driver's license to operate a vehicle on public roads. Driving with only an ID card is illegal and can result in fines and criminal charges.

Do I need a Real ID if I do not fly or visit federal buildings?

No. If you do not travel by air or enter federal buildings, a standard ID card or driver's license is sufficient for most purposes. However, Real ID is becoming more common for other uses, so getting one now may be practical for the future.

What happens if my ID card or driver's license expires?

An expired ID is not valid for driving or for most identity verification purposes. You must renew it before it expires. Driving with an expired license is illegal. Renewal is usually faster and cheaper than getting a new card, and you can often renew by mail or online.

Can I get an ID card if I have a driver's license?

Yes. You can hold both documents at the same time. Some people get an ID card as a backup in case their driver's license is lost or stolen. You explore for an ID card the same way as anyone else — by visiting the DMV with proof of identity and address.

What if I fail the driver's license test?

You can retake the test. Most states allow you to retake the written test and driving test as many times as needed, though you may have to pay a fee each time. You can continue using your learner's permit while you practice and prepare to retake the test.