How do I get a state ID card in California?
Reviewed 2026-11-01 · Source: California Department of Motor Vehicles
Ava's answer
California DMV issues ID cards to people of any age. You apply at a DMV office, and the card arrives by mail in about three to four weeks. Seniors 62 and older can get a no-fee senior ID.
- Pick your card type: REAL ID, standard ID or senior ID (62+). A standard ID is not accepted for domestic flights.
- Fill out the application: Complete the Driver's License or ID Card Application.
- Visit a DMV office: Bring your documents. Your thumbprint is scanned and your photo is taken.
- Watch your mail: The card arrives in three to four weeks. If it hasn't arrived after 60 days, check your card status online.
Your California checklist
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Steps
Documents to bring
Fees
| Senior ID (62+) | No fee |
| Reduced-fee IDIf you qualify through an assistance program (form DL 937) | Reduced |
| No-fee IDFor people experiencing homelessness as defined by the McKinney-Vento Act | No fee |
Where to go in person
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Source
ID Cards - California DMV · California Department of Motor Vehicles · reviewed 2026-11-01
Limitations: Every fact was matched word-for-word to the official California DMV page on 2026-11-01; not yet reviewed by a person. The official page is the final word, and DMV.ai does not submit anything for you.
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