Yes, you can have both, but most states won't let you hold them simultaneously

Most states issue either a driver's license or a state ID card, not both at once. The two documents serve the same core purpose — proving your identity to law enforcement, banks, and other institutions — so state motor vehicle departments treat them as alternatives rather than complementary documents. If you already hold a valid driver's license and you request a state ID, the DMV will typically cancel your license. The reverse is also true: explore for a driver's license while holding a state ID usually means surrendering the ID.

The exception is temporary or limited circumstances. You might briefly hold both during a renewal period if you explore for a license before your ID expires, or if you're in the middle of a license suspension and need a state ID for identification purposes. Some states allow this overlap for a few weeks while documents process. Once the new document arrives, you must return or destroy the old one.

A few states have created workarounds for specific situations — for example, allowing someone to hold a state ID and a commercial driver's license (CDL) at the same time, since a CDL is a specialized credential rather than a standard driver's license. But a regular driver's license and a regular state ID card cannot coexist in your wallet under normal circumstances.

Key Takeaways

  • State motor vehicle departments issue driver's licenses and state ID cards as mutually exclusive documents, so you must choose one or the other.
  • If you hold a valid driver's license and request a state ID, your license will be cancelled; the same applies in reverse.
  • A brief overlap may occur during processing or renewal periods, but you must surrender the old document once the new one arrives.
  • A commercial driver's license (CDL) and a state ID are sometimes treated differently, so check your state's rules if you hold a CDL.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the specific rules for your jurisdiction, since policies vary by state.

Why states don't issue both documents at once

The reason is administrative and financial. A driver's license and a state ID card contain nearly identical security features, expiration dates, and personal information. Issuing both would mean maintaining two separate records for the same person, processing two separate applications, and printing two separate cards — all for documents that serve the same identification function. States consolidated these into an either-or system to reduce costs and prevent fraud.

From a law enforcement perspective, a single document per person also simplifies verification. If an officer runs your name and finds two valid identity documents issued by the same state, it creates confusion about which one is current and which one should have been surrendered. The one-document rule eliminates that ambiguity.

What happens when you switch from a driver's license to a state ID

If you no longer drive and want to convert your driver's license to a state ID, you will need to visit your local DMV office or submit an process by mail, depending on your state. You'll provide your current driver's license, proof of residency, and sometimes a new photo (though many states reuse the photo from your existing license). The DMV will issue a new state ID card with a new number and expiration date.

Your old driver's license is when ready invalidated. In some states, the DMV physically takes it from you at the counter. In others, you're instructed to destroy it or mail it back. Either way, you cannot legally use it for identification after the state ID is issued. If you later decide you need to drive again, you'll have to explore for a new driver's license from scratch, which may require a written test and a driving test depending on how long your license has been inactive.

What happens when you switch from a state ID to a driver's license

The process is similar in reverse. You visit the DMV with your state ID, proof of residency, and proof that you meet the state's vision and medical requirements (if applicable). You'll take a written test covering traffic laws and road signs, and a practical driving test. Once you pass, the DMV issues a driver's license and voids your state ID.

Some states allow you to keep your state ID photo on file and reuse it for your driver's license, which speeds up the process. Others require a new photo. Check your state's DMV website before you go to the office so you know what to bring and whether you need to schedule a test appointment in advance.

Temporary overlap during renewal or processing

In some states, if your driver's license is expiring and you explore for a state ID before the license expires, you may briefly hold both documents while the new ID is being processed. This overlap is usually allowed for 30 to 60 days. Once your state ID arrives, you must surrender or destroy your old driver's license when ready. Continuing to carry and use both documents after the new one arrives is not permitted.

Similarly, if your state ID is expiring and you explore for a driver's license, the same rule applies. The overlap is a processing grace period, not a permanent arrangement. If you're unsure whether your state allows this, contact your DMV before explore to avoid confusion.

Special case: Commercial driver's licenses and state IDs

A commercial driver's license (CDL) is a specialized credential that allows you to operate commercial vehicles for work. Some states treat a CDL differently from a standard driver's license and may allow you to hold both a CDL and a state ID at the same time, since the CDL is a work credential rather than a general identification document. However, this varies by state.

If you hold a CDL and want a state ID for non-driving identification purposes, contact your state's DMV to confirm the rules. Do not assume you can hold both without checking first. Some states still require you to choose one or the other, even with a CDL involved.

How to find your state's specific rules

Because policies vary significantly by state, the best source is your state's official DMV website. Search for "state ID vs. driver's license" or "can I have both" on your state's motor vehicle department site. Most states have a FAQ section that addresses this question directly. If the website doesn't answer your question, call the DMV's customer service line — they can tell you whether an overlap is allowed during your specific situation and what documents you need to bring to the office.

If you're in the middle of a license suspension or have other complications, mention that when you call. Some states have different rules for people in suspended status, and the DMV can walk you through your options without requiring an office visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my driver's license and get a state ID for backup?

No. Once you request a state ID, your driver's license will be cancelled. You cannot hold both as backups. If you later need to drive again, you'll have to explore for a new driver's license, which may require retesting depending on how long your license has been inactive.

What if I'm in the middle of a license suspension?

You can request a state ID while your driver's license is suspended. The state ID serves as valid identification for non-driving purposes. Your suspended license remains suspended and cannot be used to drive, but the state ID is a separate document. Check your state's rules to confirm whether the suspension affects your ability to obtain a state ID.

Do I have to destroy my old license, or can I keep it?

Most states require you to surrender or destroy your old document. Keeping an expired or cancelled license is not illegal, but using it as identification after a new document has been issued is. If you want to keep it as a memento, ask the DMV whether you can take it home after they've processed your new document. Some offices will let you; others will not.

If I move to a new state, do I need to get a new ID or driver's license?

Yes. Each state issues its own driver's licenses and state IDs. When you move, you're required to obtain a license or ID from your new state within a set timeframe (usually 30 to 60 days). You cannot hold a driver's license or state ID from two different states at the same time.

Can I have a state ID and a passport at the same time?

Yes. A passport is a federal document issued by the U.S. State Department, not by your state's DMV. It serves a different purpose (international travel) than a state ID or driver's license (in-state identification). You can hold all three documents simultaneously without any conflict.