Buy ID Card: A Comprehensive Guide

Buying an ID card is straightforward. Learn about options, pricing, and the legal aspects involved in the process.

First published: Oct 6, 2026
3 min read

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Navigate What You Get When Buying an ID Card · How to Get an ID Card: Step-by-Step Process · Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees · Good to know · Sources and further reading

What You Get When Buying an ID Card

Standard State ID Card

A government-issued photo ID valid for everyday use, such as age verification or non-driving identification. Fees vary by state, with Arizona charging $12 for a standard ID [1].

REAL ID-Compliant Card

A federally accepted ID for domestic air travel and federal facility access. Requires additional documentation like two proofs of residency [2].

Temporary ID Card

Issued on the spot at DMV offices, with the permanent card mailed within 15 business days in Illinois [3].

Free or Discounted ID Options

Some states offer free IDs for seniors, low-income residents, or specific groups like homeless veterans in Arizona [1].

Multi-Function City ID

Like Chicago’s CityKey, which also serves as a library card and transit pass for residents [4].

How to Get an ID Card: Step-by-Step Process

Check eligibility and requirements
Verify if you qualify for a free ID, like Arizona’s offer for residents aged 65+, SSI recipients, minors in foster care, or homeless veterans (1). Confirm the documents needed, such as proof of identity, residency, and Social Security Number, as required in states like Maryland, Texas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska (5) (6) (7) (8).
Gather necessary documents
Collect the required paperwork. For REAL ID-compliant cards in Illinois, prepare proof of identity, Social Security Number, and two proofs of residency (2). In Texas, provide U.S. citizenship or lawful presence proof, residency, identity, and SSN (6).
Schedule an appointment or visit in person
Book an appointment online if available, like in Illinois via the Secretary of State website at one of 140 DMV locations (9). For Chicago residents, the CityKey can be obtained without an appointment at designated centers (4).
Submit your application
Fill out the application form, such as Nebraska’s Form DMV 06-104, and submit it with your documents (8). In Illinois, you’ll receive a temporary ID on the spot, with the permanent card mailed within 15 business days (3).
Pay the fee if applicable
Pay the required fee, such as Arizona’s $12 for a standard or replacement ID card, payable by credit card, cash, check, or money order (10) (1) (11). Some states offer free IDs for eligible groups (1).
Wait for processing and delivery
Processing times vary. In Illinois, permanent IDs arrive by mail within 15 business days (3). In Arizona, online replacements are processed after payment (10).
Verify the ID upon receipt
Check the card for accuracy, including name, photo, and expiration date. Ensure it meets your needs, such as REAL ID compliance for travel or other purposes (2).

Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees

Purchasing an ID card involves several risks and limitations. First, ensure compliance with your state’s specific requirements. Most states mandate proof of identity, residency, and a Social Security Number. Failing to provide necessary documents can result in application denial.

Consider the fees associated with obtaining an ID. For instance, Arizona charges $12 for a standard ID, while some residents may qualify for free IDs based on age or status (1). Refund policies differ by state. Once an application is submitted, canceling or obtaining a refund can be difficult.

Delays in receiving your ID card are also a possibility. States like Illinois may take up to 15 business days to mail your permanent card after issuing a temporary one (3).

If you need a REAL ID-compliant card for travel, be prepared to provide additional documentation. This requirement can complicate the application process (2).

In cases where your ID is lost or damaged, Arizona allows for online replacement for a fee, but this option is limited to specific circumstances (11).

Before proceeding, verify your eligibility and understand all associated costs. These steps help mitigate risks and ensure a smoother application experience.

Good to know

Where to get Chicago ID card

Chicago residents can obtain a free CityKey ID at any CityKey enrollment location. This card also serves as a library and transit card (4). No appointment is required for most locations.

State ID card requirements

Requirements vary by state but typically include proof of identity, legal presence, residency, and a Social Security Number. Maryland and Texas require all four, while Oklahoma accepts one proof of identity and one or two of residency (5) (6) (7).

AZ ID card replacement online

Arizona residents can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged ID card online via AZMVDNow.gov for a $12 fee. Online replacement is only available for these specific cases (10) (11).