Every state issues both driver’s licenses and non-driver ID cards. State-issued ID cards are considered a government-issued form of identification, which you can use to prove your identity, age, and citizenship.
In general, the agency responsible for issuing driver’s licenses, usually the DMV, also issues ID cards. So, the application process is similar, and most ID cards look much like the state’s driver’s licenses. However, since state-issued ID cards do not authorize you to drive a vehicle, you do not have to take any of the driving-related tests to get one.
Any U.S. citizen can get a state-issued ID card, as long as they have:
- A completed application form
- Payment for the processing fees (varies by state)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Proof of state residency
- Proof of identity
- A Social Security Number
Some states may have additional requirements, so you may want to check with your state’s DMV or ID-issuing office to see what you need to apply.