What Do I Need for a Pennsylvania State Identification Card?

In the state of Pennsylvania, anyone at least 10 can be issued a photo identification card; however, if you are younger than 18 you must be accompanied by an adult. An ID card will allow you to verify your identity at places such as airports and bars and to secure other services. Those who are forced, for any reason, to relinquish their driver's licenses can get an ID card.

Completed Application

All applicants must completely fill out the application for requesting a photo ID or DL-54A form. The application briefly asks for background information, including name, birth date and address. Anyone who has lost her ID card should fill out form DL-80 to have it replaced.

Proof Of Identification

If you are a U.S. citizen you must provide you Social Security card or Pennsylvania driver's license and one of the following identifying documents: an official U.S. birth certificate, passport, certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship. Non-citizens must present all U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) documents, a passport and a Social Security card (or evidence you tried to apply for one). The Pennsylvania Driver & Vehicle Services website has a list of all USCIS documents. Only valid and up-to-date documents are accepted for citizens and non-citizens alike.

Payment

There is a $12 fee, as of 2010, to submit your application. The department requires that applicants pay using a check or money order made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The fee is the same for card renewals.

Proof of Residency

To prove you are a Pennsylvania resident, you must provide two of the following documents: a W-2 form, lease agreement, current utility bill (excluding cell phones or pagers), mortgage documents or tax records. U.S. citizens also can present a current weapons permit. This only applies to applicants over the age of 18.

Receiving Your ID Card

After your application has been reviewed, your information will be entered into the system and you will be asked to have your photo taken. Those applicants who already have a Pennsylvania driver's license can elect to use their photos that are already on file. The picture-taking and card-printing processes brief, and you should have your new ID card within several minutes.

References

• Pennsylvania Driver & Vehicle Services: Identification and Residency Requirements for U.S. Citizens
• Pennsylvania Driver & Vehicle Services: Application for Initial Photo Identification Card
• The Unofficial DMV Guide: Identification Cards
• Pennsylvania: Identification and Legal Presence Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens

Resources

• Pennsylvania Driver & Vehicle Services: Obtaining a Photo Identification Card