What a Horizontal License Is and Why You Might Want One
A horizontal driver's license is a standard-format license that measures 5 inches wide by 3.125 inches tall — the same dimensions as a credit card laid flat. Most states issue this format by default. The alternative is a vertical license, which stands 3.625 inches wide by 5 inches tall and is often used for Real ID-compliant licenses or licenses issued to drivers under 21.
You may want a horizontal license because it fits standard wallet slots more easily, matches the format you had before, or straightforward because you prefer the layout. The process to request one depends on your state's current policies and whether you are renewing an existing license or getting your first one.
Not all states offer a choice between formats. Some states have moved entirely to vertical licenses for all drivers, while others allow you to request horizontal at renewal or reissuance. A few states issue horizontal by default and vertical only when required by federal Real ID rules.
Key Takeaways
- Horizontal licenses are available in most states but not all; your state's DMV website will confirm whether the format is an option for you.
- If your state offers both formats, you can usually request horizontal when you renew, replace, or first obtain your license.
- Real ID-compliant licenses are often vertical by default in many states, so requesting horizontal may mean your license does not carry the Real ID star.
- The request is typically made at the DMV counter or during the online renewal process, with no additional fee beyond the standard license cost.
- Processing time and availability depend on your state; some states print horizontal on demand, while others may require a longer wait or special order.
Check Your State's Current Policy on License Formats
Before you plan to request a horizontal license, confirm that your state still offers it. Visit your state's DMV website and search for "license format" or "horizontal license." Most state DMV sites have a FAQ or license type page that lists which formats are available.
Some states have phased out horizontal licenses entirely in favor of vertical Real ID-compliant cards. Others offer both but are gradually transitioning. A few states, such as Florida and Texas, still issue horizontal as the standard format. If your state's website does not clearly state the policy, call your local DMV office directly — they can tell you in one call whether horizontal is available and under what conditions.
Pay attention to whether your state ties format to Real ID status. In many states, a horizontal license cannot carry the Real ID star, which means it will not meet federal requirements for air travel or federal building access after the Real ID important date. If you need Real ID compliance, you may have to accept a vertical format.
Request Horizontal Format During License Renewal
If you are renewing an existing license and your state offers horizontal, the easiest time to request it is during the renewal process. When you renew online, by mail, or in person, look for a field or checkbox that asks about license format or appearance preferences.
Online renewal systems often include a dropdown menu or radio button for "standard" or "horizontal" format. If you do not see the option in the online form, it may not be available through that channel — call the DMV to confirm. In-person renewal at a DMV office gives you the chance to ask the clerk directly and see samples of both formats before you decide.
Some states allow you to request format changes by mail with your renewal process. Check your renewal notice or your state's DMV website for instructions. If the option is not listed, do not assume it is unavailable; contact the DMV to ask whether you can add a format request to your renewal.
Request Horizontal Format for a First License or Replacement
When you obtain your first driver's license, you can usually request horizontal format at the time of process. During your in-person visit to the DMV, tell the clerk you want a horizontal license. Some states allow you to indicate this preference on the written process form before you meet with the clerk.
If you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement process is a good time to switch formats. You will be visiting the DMV anyway, and the clerk can note your format preference in the system. Replacement licenses are often processed faster than new licenses, so you may receive your horizontal license within one to two weeks.
For a first license, be aware that your state may have restrictions based on age. Some states issue vertical licenses to drivers under 21 by law, regardless of format preference. Check your state's rules before you visit the DMV so you know whether a horizontal license is possible for your age group.
Understand Real ID and Format Restrictions
The federal Real ID Act requires that driver's licenses meet specific security and verification standards. Many states have chosen to mark Real ID-compliant licenses with a gold or black star in the upper right corner. The problem: in many states, only vertical licenses carry this star.
If you request a horizontal license in a state where Real ID is vertical-only, your license will be standard-compliant but will not have the Real ID star. This means it will not meet federal requirements for air travel, entry to federal buildings, or military bases after the Real ID important date (currently May 7, 2025, though this has been extended multiple times). You would need a passport or other Real ID document for those purposes.
Before you request horizontal, decide whether you need Real ID compliance. If you travel by air or visit federal facilities regularly, a vertical Real ID license may be the better choice, even if you prefer the horizontal format. If you rarely travel or already have a passport, a horizontal non-Real ID license is a viable option.
What to Bring and What to Expect at the DMV
When you visit the DMV to request a horizontal license, bring the same documents you would bring for any license renewal or replacement: your current license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents required for your situation.
Tell the clerk at the counter that you want a horizontal license. If your state offers the format, the clerk will note it in the system and may show you a sample of what it will look like. There is no additional fee for choosing horizontal instead of vertical — you pay the standard license renewal or replacement fee.
Processing time varies by state. Some states print licenses on-site and you can pick yours up the same day or within a few days. Others mail licenses from a central facility, which can take one to three weeks. Ask the clerk how long your horizontal license will take to arrive and whether you will receive a temporary license to use in the meantime.
What to Do If Your State Does Not Offer Horizontal
If your state has discontinued horizontal licenses or never offered them, you do not have a choice of format. You will receive whatever format your state currently issues — almost certainly vertical. Requesting a different format will not change the outcome.
If you moved to a new state and are transferring your out-of-state license, you will have to accept your new state's standard format. Some people keep their old horizontal license as a secondary ID, but it cannot be used as your primary driver's license once you have a valid license from your new state.
If you strongly prefer horizontal format and your state does not offer it, your only option is to wait and see whether the state's policy changes in the future. Some states have reversed course and reintroduced horizontal licenses after phasing them out, though this is rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a horizontal license if I need Real ID?
It depends on your state. Some states offer Real ID in both horizontal and vertical formats. Others issue Real ID only in vertical. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether Real ID horizontal is available. If not, you will need to choose between a horizontal non-Real ID license or a vertical Real ID license.
How long does it take to get a horizontal license?
Processing time varies by state and whether you are renewing, replacing, or getting a first license. Same-day or next-day issuance is possible in some states; others mail licenses from a central facility and take one to three weeks. Ask the DMV clerk when you explore.
Is there an extra fee for a horizontal license?
No. Horizontal and vertical licenses cost the same. You pay the standard renewal, replacement, or new license fee regardless of which format you choose. There is no surcharge for format preference.
What if I requested horizontal but received vertical instead?
Contact your state's DMV when ready and explain the error. If you requested horizontal and your state offers it, the DMV should issue a replacement at no charge. Bring your vertical license and ask for a corrected horizontal license.
Can I use a horizontal license for air travel?
Only if it carries the Real ID star. A horizontal license without the star does not meet federal Real ID requirements for air travel. You would need a passport, passport card, or other Real ID document instead. Check whether your horizontal license has the Real ID marking before you travel.