How to Renew & Replace ID Cards
The United States requires you to renew your ID card often because it only lasts for a certain period. Unlike getting your first ID card, which you have to do in person, many DMV offices let you renew your card in different ways.
For example, you might be able to finish the renewal process on your state’s website. How long your ID card lasts depends on the type of card you have and the rules in your state.
If you lose your ID card, have it stolen, or it gets damaged, you should ask for a replacement right away. This is very important, especially if you do not have a driver’s license. Your ID card is an official document that might be needed for things like getting a job or other important tasks. To get a new ID card, contact your state’s motor vehicle department as soon as possible.
For more information about renewing or replacing an ID card, please visit your state’s website.
Select a state to begin:
Select a state to begin:
Methods for ID Card Renewal
Usually, you need to renew your DMV ID card every four to six years. No matter which way you choose to renew it, you must meet some rules and follow several steps. Keep reading to learn how to renew your ID card.
How to Renew ID Cards Online
The easiest way to renew your ID card in the United States is to start the process on your state’s DMV website. However, not all states let you renew online. Also, if you want to renew your ID card on the internet and avoid going to the office, you need to meet some rules.
Even though the rules can be different in each state, most non-drivers cannot finish the online process if they:
- Are not U.S. citizens and state residents older than 18 years of age.
- Do not have a valid credit card or a bank account for payment purposes.
- Must update their photograph on file with the DMV.
- Do not hold an ID card that has been expired for a long period of time and their identification card is nearing its expiration date.
- Have not provided their Social Security Number to the DMV.
- Have recently changed their name and/or address and omitted to complete the name change and/or address change procedure with the DMV.
Note: Not all requirements to renew identification card credentials outlined above may apply in your case, as they vary depending on the practices of your state DMV and your specific circumstances.
To finalize ID card renewal via the internet, applicants will first be required to enter several types of personal information, such as full name, date of birth, address and Social Security Number. When the system verifies your identity, you will be prompted to provide the fee payment in order to conclude the transaction. Fees vary by state.
How to Renew ID Cards in Person or by Mail
Drivers who can’t renew their DMV ID online usually have other ways to finish the process. For example, you can go to a local DMV office to renew your ID card, no matter where you live. When renewing your ID card in person, you will usually need to follow these steps:
- Visit a DMV office during its regular working hours.
- Fill out the corresponding state ID renewal application.
- Submit the necessary identification documents.
- Have your photo taken (if required).
- Pay any applicable fees.
Some states let you renew your ID card by mail. For example, the Colorado DMV accepts ID renewal applications sent by mail, along with the right fee, to the address on the form. However, if you need to update your photo or change your address, you usually cannot renew your ID by mail. In that case, you’ll have to renew your card in person or online.
Documents Necessary to Renew ID Cards
When renewing ID cards in the United States, you might need to show documents that prove your identity, your birthdate, your address, and that you are legally in the country. Some renewal methods don’t require this paperwork. For example, if you renew your ID online, you usually don’t need to submit any documents because you already provided them in an earlier DMV transaction. However, if you have special circumstances, you may need to renew your ID in person and bring extra documents.
- You have completed the address and/or name change procedure.
- You must update your photo on file.
- You must reestablish your state residency, legal U.S. presence, date of birth, identity and/or Social Security Number.
- You are renewing an expired ID card.
Methods for ID Card Replacement
State citizens requesting a replacement ID card are usually offered several methods to complete the process. Though the ways to apply for a copy of ID card credentials may vary from state to state, they generally include: in person at a local DMV, by mail or via the internet.
When completing their application for lost ID card documents, individuals will also need to submit specific items, which may differ depending on their state of residence. Applicants wondering how to replace ID card credentials can obtain more information by reading the following sections.
How to Replace an ID Card in Person
An efficient way to replace ID card credentials is to personally visit a nearby DMV location and follow the guidelines set by the state motor vehicle agency. Applicants who decide to obtain a copy of their ID card in person may be required to present specific documentation to prove their identity and complete additional steps, such as give a thumb print, have their photograph taken, arrange payment for the applicable fees and more.
Since it is important to have the proper documents on hand when choosing to replace your lost ID card personally, you are strongly recommended to conduct thorough research or contact a DMV office prior to your visit, thus avoiding any inconvenience when in the office.
Certain states, such as California, allow individuals applying for a DMV ID replacement to schedule an appointment beforehand for faster service.
How to Replace an ID Card Online or by Mail
State citizens who are not able to replace their ID card in person, may still complete the procedure by mail or using an online service tool, provided their state DMV offers these options.
Obtaining a copy of an ID card via mail generally requires applicants to submit a completed application form along with some proof of identity/citizenship and payment for the replacement fee. In order to utilize an online provider to replace a lost state ID card, individuals must first ensure they are eligible for the procedure, have access to the internet and a valid debit/credit card to finalize the transaction.
Applicants requesting a DMV ID replacement online must also note that certain state DMVs may charge a convenience fee in addition to the regular price for applying via the internet.
Requirements to Replace ID Cards
Lost ID cards are generally replaced once applicants submit the required paperwork and complete the criteria set by their state motor vehicle agency.
Though the necessary documentation to obtain a replacement ID card may once again vary depending on the state, non-drivers will be generally required to complete and submit an application form, provide an acceptable proof of identity/citizenship/residency and pay the applicable fees. Other DMV ID replacement requirements, such as giving a thumb print, as well as additional documents may apply depending on your circumstances.
Note: Certain states require citizens with an expired DMV ID card to apply for a new one or renew their credential instead of initiating a replacement procedure.
Fees to Replace an ID Card
When you need to replace a lost ID card, you also have to pay a fee. Each state’s DMV sets its own fees. People who are 70 years old or older may not have to pay. In New York, if you apply in person or by mail and send proof that you get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you can get a replacement at a lower price or even for free.
Also, note that some state DMVs might add an extra service fee for non-drivers who apply online.