Whether you need to open a bank account, board a flight, or send money internationally, having proper identification is essential. Understanding the different types of ID documents available can save you time and prevent frustrating delays when you need them most.
This comprehensive guide breaks down all the major forms of identification accepted in the United States. You’ll learn which documents work best for specific situations, how to obtain them, and what to do if your ID is lost or stolen.
Primary Forms of Identification
Primary identification documents are government-issued IDs that serve as your main proof of identity. These documents typically include your photo and are accepted for most official purposes.
Driver’s License
A driver’s license remains the most commonly used form of identification for adults in the United States. Beyond proving your driving privileges, it serves as valid ID for banking, travel within the US, and countless daily activities.
Each state issues its own driver’s licenses with specific security features. Most licenses display your full name, address, date of birth, physical description, and photograph. To obtain a driver’s license, you’ll need to pass written and driving tests, provide proof of identity and residency, and pay the required fees.
State-Issued ID Card
If you don’t drive, a state-issued identification card provides the same identification benefits as a driver’s license. These non-driver ID cards are available through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.
State ID cards include the same personal information as driver’s licenses but clearly indicate they’re for identification only. The application process is similar to getting a driver’s license, minus the driving tests.
Passport
A US passport serves as both primary identification and proof of citizenship. This document is essential for international travel and is accepted as valid ID for all domestic purposes.
Passports contain your photograph, signature, full name, date of birth, and place of birth. The US Department of State issues passports, and the application process requires proof of citizenship, identity verification, and passport photos.
Passport Card
The passport card is a wallet-sized alternative to the traditional passport book. While it doesn’t allow air travel to international destinations, it’s perfect for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
This card costs less than a passport book and serves as excellent domestic identification. It contains the same security features as a passport but in a more convenient format for everyday use.
Secondary Forms of Identification
Secondary identification documents support your primary ID and help verify specific information about you. While not always sufficient on their own, they’re often required in combination with primary documents.
Social Security Card
Your Social Security card proves your Social Security Number (SSN) and work authorization status. This document is crucial for employment verification, tax purposes, and many financial transactions.
The Social Security Administration issues these cards free of charge. While the card itself is simple, your SSN is one of your most important identifying numbers throughout your lifetime.
Birth Certificate
A birth certificate serves as proof of citizenship for those born in the United States. This vital document contains your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and parent information.
Birth certificates are issued by the state or territory where you were born. You can typically request copies from the vital records office in your birth state, even if you currently live elsewhere.
Military ID
Active duty military members, veterans, and military dependents can use military identification cards as valid ID. These cards prove military service and provide access to military benefits and facilities.
The Department of Defense issues several types of military ID cards, each with specific purposes and access levels. These cards are widely accepted as primary identification throughout the United States.
Specialized Identification Documents
Certain situations require specialized forms of identification. These documents serve specific purposes and may not be accepted for general identification needs.
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
Some states offer enhanced driver’s licenses that meet federal requirements for border crossings. These special licenses allow land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries without a passport.
Enhanced licenses cost more than regular driver’s licenses and require additional documentation proving citizenship. Not all states offer this option, so check with your local DMV for availability.
REAL ID
REAL ID is a federal standard for driver’s licenses and ID cards, not a separate document. Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
REAL ID-compliant documents display a star in the upper right corner. To get one, you’ll need to provide additional documentation proving your identity, Social Security Number, and residency when renewing or applying for your license.
Tribal Identification
Members of federally recognized Native American tribes can use tribal identification cards as valid ID. These cards prove tribal membership and may provide access to specific benefits and services.
Each tribe issues its own identification cards according to their enrollment requirements. Tribal IDs are accepted by most federal agencies and many private organizations as valid identification.
Digital and Mobile ID Options
Technology is transforming how we carry and present identification. Several states now offer digital versions of driver’s licenses and ID cards through smartphone apps.
Mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) store your identification information securely on your phone. While not yet accepted everywhere, these digital IDs are becoming more common at airports and other locations.
Digital IDs offer enhanced security features and convenience, but you should still carry a physical backup for situations where digital ID isn’t accepted.
International Identification for Non-Citizens
Non-US citizens living in or visiting the United States have several identification options depending on their status.
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Permanent residents carry a Permanent Resident Card, commonly called a green card. This document proves lawful permanent resident status and serves as valid identification for most purposes.
The card contains your photograph, fingerprint, and important status information. It’s essential to keep your green card current and carry it with you as proof of your legal status.
Work Authorization Document
Non-citizens authorized to work in the United States receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This card proves work eligibility and serves as identification for employment purposes.
The EAD includes your photograph and specific information about your work authorization. Different categories of workers receive different types of work authorization documents.
Foreign Passport with Visa
Visitors and temporary residents often use their foreign passport combined with a US visa as identification. This combination proves both identity and legal status in the United States.
Different visa types allow different activities and lengths of stay. Always ensure your visa remains valid for your intended activities and duration of stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my ID is lost or stolen?
Report lost or stolen identification immediately to prevent identity theft. Contact the issuing agency to request a replacement and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports. For driver’s licenses, visit your local DMV. For passports, contact the State Department immediately.
Can I use an expired ID for identification purposes?
Most organizations don’t accept expired identification documents. Some may accept recently expired IDs (within 30-60 days) for certain purposes, but this varies by organization and situation. Always keep your primary ID current to avoid complications.
How long does it take to get a replacement ID?
Replacement times vary by document type and issuing agency. Driver’s license replacements often take 1-2 weeks, while passport replacements can take 6-8 weeks for routine service. Expedited services are available for most documents at additional cost.
What documents do I need to get my first ID?
First-time ID applicants typically need proof of identity (birth certificate), Social Security Number (Social Security card), and residency (utility bills or lease agreement). Requirements vary by state and document type, so check with the issuing agency for specific requirements.
Can I use a photocopy of my ID?
Photocopies are generally not acceptable as valid identification. Most situations require original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency. Keep photocopies for your records, but don’t rely on them for official identification purposes.
Protecting Your Identification Documents
Keep your identification documents secure and organized. Store originals in a safe place at home and carry only what you need. Make copies of important documents and store them separately from the originals.
Consider using a secure document storage service or safety deposit box for documents you don’t need regularly. This protects them from theft, fire, or other disasters while keeping them accessible when needed.
Having proper identification opens doors to essential services and opportunities. Whether you’re opening a bank account, starting a new job, or planning to travel, the right ID makes these processes smooth and straightforward.
Take time to ensure your identification documents are current and stored safely. This simple step prevents delays and complications when you need to prove your identity for important life events and transactions.