National ID Cards in the United States
The United States utilizes identification cards for each of its citizens. ID cards allow federal and state governments to contact and identify people for a variety of reasons. In order to travel by air, apply for jobs, set up bank accounts and receive federal benefits, one of the following ID cards is needed.
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Social Security Card
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The Social Security card is issued by the Social Security Administration, an agency within the United States federal government. The card, commonly issued to newborns by their parents, allows individuals to be identified by the Internal Revenue Service and other federal organizations. The Social Security card provides a Social Security number (SSN) to all citizens of the United States. The card and its number are needed to get a job, collect Social Security benefits and receive other government services.
Passport Card
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A passport card is an alternative to a regular passport. The card is a wallet-sized travel document that includes information such as date of birth, place of birth, sex and full name along with a photo. According to the U.S. Department of State, the "U.S. Passport Card can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry." Unfortunately, the passport card cannot be used to travel internationally by airplane. A traditional passport is still required for international air travel.
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Driver's License
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A driver's license is an identification card used by adults and qualified drivers aged 16 and older that must be carried at all times when operating a vehicle. The license has been used as a primary source of identification in other areas such as applying for jobs, entering adult bars and movie theaters, and providing identification for banks and government organizations. Every state in the United States offers a driver's license through its Department of Motor Vehicles or Department of Public Safety, but only after completing a driving test. Information included on the license includes photo, address, date of birth and height, as well as a signature and photo.
Non-Driver Identification Cards
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All states issue non-driver identification cards as well. These cards resemble driver's licenses and include all of the same information. These identification cards can be used for all the same purposes except for driving. Non-driver identification cards are commonly used by senior citizens, teenagers who cannot drive or adults who choose public transportation over driving.
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