Most state DMVs let you order a standard ID card online, but the process and what you can do online varies by state
You can order an identification card online through your state's DMV website in most states, but not all of them. Some states let you complete the entire process online — uploading documents, paying the fee, and scheduling an appointment or having the card mailed to you. Others only let you start the process online and require you to finish it in person at a DMV office. A few states do not offer online ordering at all and require you to visit a location or mail in a paper form.
The fastest way to find out what your state offers is to go directly to your state DMV's official website and look for "ID card" or "identification card" in the search bar. The site will tell you whether you can order online, what documents you need to upload, and whether you have to come in for a photo or appointment.
Key Takeaways
- Your state DMV website is the only place to order an ID card online — third-party sites that claim to help you order will charge you extra fees on top of the state fee.
- Most states that offer online ordering require you to upload a photo, proof of identity, and proof of residency before you can pay and submit.
- Even when you order online, many states still require you to visit a DMV office in person for a photo or to verify documents before the card is mailed.
- Processing time after you submit an online order usually ranges from one to three weeks, depending on whether your state requires an in-person visit.
- If your state does not offer online ordering, you can mail in a paper process or visit a DMV office — check your state's website for which option is faster.
What documents you need to upload for an online ID card order
The documents required vary by state, but most ask for proof of identity, proof of residency, and a photo. Proof of identity usually means a birth certificate, passport, or previous driver's license or ID card. Proof of residency usually means a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address — it typically has to be dated within the last 60 days.
For the photo, some states let you upload a digital photo you take yourself at home, while others require you to come in person for an official DMV photo. Check your state's website before you take or upload a photo, because photos that do not meet the state's rules (wrong background, wrong size, glasses, hat, or expression) will be rejected and delay your order.
A few states also ask for your Social Security number, tax return, or other proof of legal presence. If you are not a U.S. citizen, your state's website will tell you which documents prove you can legally live and work in that state.
How to find your state DMV's online ordering system
Go to your state's official DMV website by typing "[your state] DMV" into a search engine. Look for a link that says "Order ID card online," "explore for ID card," or "ID card services." Some states put this under a menu called "Online services" or "Quick services."
Once you are on the right page, the site will ask you to create an account or log in if you already have one. You will then enter your personal information, upload your documents, review the fee (which varies by state, usually between $15 and $50), and pay by debit card or credit card. After you submit, the site will give you a confirmation number — save this, because you may need it to check the status of your order or to bring to an in-person appointment if your state requires one.
If you cannot find an online option on your state's official DMV website, your state does not currently offer it. In that case, look for a "mail process" or "visit an office" option instead.
When you have to visit a DMV office even after ordering online
Many states that offer online ordering still require you to come in person for a photo or to have a staff member verify your documents before the card is mailed. When you submit your online order, the site will tell you whether an in-person visit is required and will often let you schedule an appointment right away.
If an appointment is required, you usually have 30 to 60 days to complete it. If you miss the important date, your online order may be cancelled and you will have to start over. Bring your confirmation number, the original documents you uploaded (or certified copies), and any ID you already have.
Some states skip the in-person requirement if you already have a valid driver's license or ID card from that state — in those cases, they can use your existing photo on file. Check your state's website or your confirmation email to see whether you need to come in.
How long it takes to get your ID card after ordering online
Processing time depends on whether your state requires an in-person visit. If you order online and no visit is required, the card usually arrives in one to two weeks. If you have to visit a DMV office, add the time it takes to get an appointment (which can be a few days to a few weeks, depending on how busy your local office is) plus one to two weeks for mailing after your visit.
Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee — usually $10 to $25 — which can cut the mailing time in half. Check whether this option is available when you place your order.
If your order is rejected because a document does not meet the state's rules, the DMV will usually email you to ask for a corrected version. This can add another week or two to the total time.
Why you should order directly from your state DMV, not a third-party site
Many websites claim they can help you order an ID card online faster or easier. These sites are not affiliated with your state DMV and will charge you a service fee on top of the state's fee — sometimes $50 or more. You are paying extra for something you can do yourself for free on your state's official website.
Third-party sites also cannot actually speed up the process. Your state DMV still has to process your order the same way, and the card still takes the same amount of time to arrive. The only thing the third-party site does is take your money and forward your documents to the DMV.
Always go directly to your state's official DMV website. If you are unsure whether a website is official, look for a web address that ends in ".gov" and matches your state's name — for example, "dmv.ca.gov" for California or "dmv.ny.gov" for New York.
What to do if your state does not offer online ordering
If your state's DMV website does not have an online ordering option, you have two choices: mail in a paper process or visit a DMV office in person. Check your state's website to see which option is available and which is usually faster.
Mailing in an process usually takes longer overall because of mail delivery time, but it may be faster if your local DMV office has long wait times or limited appointment availability. To mail in an process, read the form from your state's DMV website, fill it out, gather your documents, and mail everything to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for the fee — most states do not accept credit cards by mail.
Visiting an office in person is usually faster if you can get an appointment soon. Many states now let you schedule DMV appointments online, which can save you from waiting in line. Bring all your documents, proof of residency, and any ID you already have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order an ID card online if I have never had one before?
Yes, in most states. You do not need a previous ID card to order online — you just need to provide proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport) and proof of residency. Some states may require an in-person visit for a photo if you have never been photographed at a DMV before.
What if I upload a photo and it gets rejected?
The DMV will email you to explain why the photo did not meet the rules — usually because of the background, size, glasses, or expression. You can upload a new photo and resubmit. If you are unsure whether your photo will work, check your state's photo requirements on the DMV website before you upload it.
Do I have to pay the fee when I order online, or can I pay when I pick up the card?
You have to pay when you order online. Most states only accept debit or credit card payment during the online process. You cannot pay in cash or by check when you order online, and you do not pay again when the card arrives.
Can I track my ID card order after I submit it online?
Some states let you check the status of your order on their DMV website using your confirmation number. Others do not offer tracking and will only contact you by email if there is a problem. Check your state's website or your confirmation email to see what tracking options are available.
What if I need the ID card before the normal processing time?
Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, which can reduce mailing time. A few states also issue temporary ID cards in person at the DMV office if you need proof of identity right away. Check your state's website to see whether either option is available.