How to Get a Virginia Identification Card

Request a Virginia ID card using your passport as identification.

In the Commonwealth of Virginia any resident can apply for a non-driver identification card. However, restrictions apply. According to state law, you cannot hold a valid driver's license or learner's permit at the time of your application. If you have a driver's license, you can trade it in for a identification card. Children and adults can apply for a Virginia identification card. The process is the same for both. Once you have an identification card, it is valid until the expiration date printed on the face of the card.

Instructions

1. Go to a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle's (DMV) customer service center. Contact the Virginia DMV at 888-337-4782 or go to the Virginia DMV's website for location information.

2. Complete a Driver's License, Identification Card, and Voter Registration Application (Form DL1M). If your minor child under age 16 is applying, complete the Identification Card Application for Minors (Form DL5). Online applications are not available.

3. Bring two proofs of identity and one proof of residency. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate and passport. (See Resources for a complete list.) Persons under age 19 only need to bring one proof of identity.

   Bring one form of ID for a child applicant and declare his citizenship and residency status.

4. Pay the application fee. If you exchange your driver's license for a state-issued ID card, the fee is $10. Renewal and original cards are also $10.

References

• DMV: Virginia ID Cards
• DMV: Virginia Acceptable Forms of ID

Resources

• DMV: Acceptable Forms of ID