DMV ID fees vary by state, but most range from $20 to $35 for a standard card

A DMV ID (also called a state ID or non-driver ID) is an official photo identification card issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. It serves the same purpose as a driver's license for people who do not drive or do not have a driver's license. The cost depends entirely on which state you live in and what type of ID you are getting.

Most states charge between $20 and $35 for a standard five- or eight-year ID card. Some states charge less for minors or offer discounts for seniors. A few states charge more, particularly if you want a REAL ID-compliant card (which meets federal standards for air travel and federal building entry). Replacement cards, name-change cards, and expedited processing typically cost extra.

The best way to find your state's exact fee is to visit your state DMV's official website directly. Search "[your state] DMV ID cost" or "[your state] DMV non-driver ID fee" to land on the right page. Do not rely on third-party sites that claim to list all state fees — they are often outdated and can send you to scam sites.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard DMV ID cards cost between $20 and $35 in most states, with fees varying by state and card type.
  • REAL ID-compliant cards usually cost more than standard cards and require additional documents to prove your identity and residency.
  • Replacement cards, expedited processing, and name-change cards each carry their own fees on top of the base card cost.
  • Your state DMV website is the only reliable source for current fees — third-party fee lists are frequently wrong and may direct you to fraudulent sites.
  • Some states offer reduced fees for minors, seniors, or people with low income, so check your state's rules before paying full price.

Standard ID card costs by card type

Most states offer two versions of a standard DMV ID: a card valid for five years and a card valid for eight years. The eight-year card usually costs more. For example, one state might charge $20 for a five-year card and $28 for an eight-year card. Another might charge $25 and $35. There is no national standard, so you must check your own state.

Some states also offer a REAL ID version of the standard card. REAL ID is a federal security standard that allows you to use your ID for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings without a passport. A REAL ID card typically costs $5 to $15 more than a standard card. You will need to bring extra documents — usually a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address — to get one.

If you are under 18 or over 65, your state may charge a lower fee. Some states also offer reduced or free IDs to people receiving certain government benefits. Check your state DMV website for age-based or income-based discounts before you go in.

Replacement, renewal, and expedited fees

If your ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement card usually costs the same as a new card or slightly less. If your ID is expiring and you need to renew it, renewal fees are typically the same as the original card fee. However, if you need your card in a hurry, expedited processing adds $10 to $25 depending on your state.

If you are changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you may be able to renew your card with the new name for the standard renewal fee. Some states charge a small additional fee for a name-change card. A few states issue the new card at no extra cost if you are within a certain window after the legal name change.

Duplicate cards (getting a second copy of your current valid ID) usually cost $5 to $15. This is useful if you want to keep one card at home and carry one with you, or if you need a backup.

Payment methods and where to pay

Most DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some accept checks. A few states allow you to pay online if you are renewing by mail. Call your local DMV office or check the state website to confirm what payment methods they accept before you go in.

You pay at the DMV office when you submit your process and documents. Some states allow you to pay online when you schedule an appointment, but most require payment in person. If you are renewing by mail, you typically include a check or money order with your process packet.

Do not send cash by mail. If you are renewing by mail and your state does not accept checks, call the DMV to ask what payment method to use.

Scam alert: Fake DMV websites and third-party services

Many fraudulent websites pose as state DMV sites or claim to offer "fast" ID services for a higher fee. These sites collect your money and personal information and never deliver a card. They may also steal your identity.

The real DMV website for your state always ends in .gov (for example, dmv.ca.gov or dmv.ny.gov). If a site ends in .com, .net, or any other extension, it is not the official DMV. Bookmark your state's official DMV site and use only that site to look up fees and find your local office.

Third-party services that charge extra to "help" you get an ID are not necessary. You can walk into any DMV office, fill out the form yourself, and pay the state fee directly. You do not need to pay a middleman. If a website or service promises to get your ID "fast" or "may provide," it is a scam.

Documents you will need to bring

The fee covers the card itself, but you still need to bring documents to prove your identity, date of birth, and current address. Most states require a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card or number, and a utility bill or lease showing your current address. Some states accept a driver's license from another state as proof of identity.

If you are getting a REAL ID card, you will need additional documents. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are usually not accepted. Check your state DMV website for the exact list before you go, because requirements vary by state and can change.

Bringing the wrong documents will delay your process and may require you to make a second trip. Spend five minutes on your state DMV website to confirm what you need.

How long it takes to get your card after paying

After you pay the fee and submit your process, the DMV will take a photo and process your paperwork. Standard processing usually takes two to four weeks. Your card will arrive by mail at the address you provided on your process.

If you pay for expedited processing, your card may arrive in five to ten business days instead. Some states offer rush processing for an even higher fee, with delivery in two to three business days.

If you need an ID right away and cannot wait for mail delivery, ask the DMV office whether they can issue a temporary paper ID on the spot. Some states do this at no extra cost; others charge a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a DMV ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Most states require a birth certificate or passport as proof of identity. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes two to four weeks and costs $10 to $30. Some states accept a passport or consular ID as an alternative. Call your state DMV to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

Do I have to go in person to get a DMV ID, or can I do it by mail?

Most states require you to appear in person for a photo. A few states allow renewal by mail if your current ID is not expired and you are not changing your name or address. Check your state DMV website to see whether mail renewal is an option. If it is, you will still pay the same fee, but you can mail in your process and documents instead of visiting an office.

What if I cannot afford the DMV ID fee?

Some states reduce or waive the fee for people with low income or receiving certain benefits like SNAP or Medicaid. Call your local DMV office and ask whether a fee waiver or discount is available. Bring proof of your income or benefit status if you think you may have access to. Do not pay a third-party service to help you — the DMV handles this directly.

Is a REAL ID worth the extra cost?

A REAL ID is worth getting if you fly domestically or enter federal buildings. Without one, you will need a passport or other federal ID for air travel starting in 2025. If you rarely fly and have a passport, a standard ID is fine. If you fly often or do not have a passport, the extra $5 to $15 for REAL ID is worth it to avoid carrying your passport everywhere.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind after paying?

Most states do not refund the fee once you have submitted your process and paid. If you have not yet submitted your process, you can ask the DMV office whether they will refund your payment. Once your card is in production, a refund is not possible. Check your state DMV website for the refund policy before you pay.