What a California ID Card for Minors Is and Who Needs One

A California ID card for minors is a state-issued photo identification document for children under 18. It is not a driver's license — it does not permit driving. Instead, it serves as proof of identity and age for situations where a minor needs to show who they are: boarding a domestic flight, entering a federal building, opening a bank account, or proving age at certain venues.

Your child does not need an ID card to attend school or for most everyday activities. You may want one if your child travels frequently, needs to prove their age, or will be in situations requiring official identification. Some families get one as a backup to a passport, or because their child is not yet old enough to drive but needs a photo ID.

The card is optional — there is no requirement to obtain one. The decision depends on your family's circumstances and whether your child will use it.

Key Takeaways

  • A California ID card for minors is a photo ID for children under 18 and does not permit driving.
  • You will need your child's birth certificate, proof of California residency, and your own ID to explore in person at a DMV office.
  • The process process takes place at a DMV field office — there is no online or mail option for minors.
  • The card costs $27 and is valid until your child turns 18, at which point they can renew it as an adult or explore for a driver's license.
  • Your child must be present at the DMV appointment, and you (the parent or guardian) must also be present to sign the process.

Documents You Will Need to Bring

Bring your child's original or certified birth certificate. A photocopy is not accepted. If you do not have the original, you can order a certified copy from the California Department of Public Health's Vital Records office or the county where your child was born.

You will also need proof of California residency in your child's name or yours. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax bill, or school enrollment records dated within the last 60 days. The document must show a current California address.

Bring your own government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or military ID. This proves you are the parent or legal guardian authorized to sign the process on your child's behalf.

If your child was born outside the United States, bring the original or certified copy of their immigration documents, such as a passport, visa, or permanent resident card. Bring whatever document shows your child's legal status in the country.

How to Schedule and Complete the process

Visit the California DMV website and use the online appointment scheduler to book a time at your nearest DMV field office. You cannot explore by mail or online for a minor's ID card — you and your child must both appear in person. Select "ID Card" as the transaction type when booking.

At your appointment, bring all documents listed above. A DMV staff member will verify your documents, take your child's photo, and have you sign the process form (Form DL 44). Your child will also sign the form if they are old enough to write their name; if not, you sign on their behalf.

The DMV will collect the $27 fee at the time of process. Payment methods include cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Ask the staff member for a receipt showing your process was submitted.

Your child's ID card will be mailed to your address within 10 to 14 business days. If you do not receive it within that timeframe, contact the DMV office where you applied to check the status.

Age and may be able to access Requirements

Your child must be under 18 years old at the time of process. There is no minimum age — infants and toddlers can receive an ID card, though the photo requirement means the card will show what they looked like at the time of issuance.

Your child must be a California resident. This means they live in California and intend to remain here. Residency is established by the proof-of-residency document you bring (utility bill, lease, school records, etc.).

Your child must be a U.S. citizen or have legal immigration status. Bring documentation of citizenship or lawful presence, such as a birth certificate (for citizens), passport, visa, or permanent resident card.

What Happens When Your Child Turns 18

The ID card expires on your child's 18th birthday. At that point, your child can renew it as an adult or explore for a driver's license instead — they cannot do both simultaneously.

If your child wants to keep an ID card after turning 18, they will need to explore for an adult ID card. They can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The adult card costs $27 and is valid for 10 years.

If your child wants to drive, they will explore for a driver's license instead. That process is separate and involves a written test, a driving test, and a higher fee. Many teens explore for a learner's permit first, which has its own requirements and timeline.

Common Reasons Families Choose a Minor ID Card

Families often get a minor ID card when their child travels by air within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts California ID cards for domestic flights, and having one can speed up airport security screening for children.

Some families use it as a backup to a passport. If your child has a passport, an ID card is not necessary for international travel, but some parents keep one on hand in case the passport is lost or delayed.

A minor ID card is also useful if your child needs to prove their age or identity for banking, medical, or school purposes. Some banks require photo ID to open an account for a minor, and some medical offices request it during check-in.

Families with children who are not yet old enough to drive but need photo identification for other reasons often choose this option because it is simpler and faster than obtaining a passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for a minor ID card by mail or online?

No. You and your child must both appear in person at a California DMV field office. There is no mail-in or online option for minors. You will need to schedule an appointment using the DMV's online scheduler.

What if my child does not have a birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy from the California Department of Public Health's Vital Records office (if your child was born in California) or from the vital records office in the county or state where your child was born. This usually takes one to two weeks. You cannot use a photocopy or a hospital birth record — it must be an official certified copy.

Can my child use a minor ID card to fly on an airplane?

Yes. The TSA accepts California ID cards for domestic flights. Your child will present it at airport security. For international flights, your child will need a passport instead.

What if I lost the ID card after it was issued?

You can request a replacement at any DMV field office. Bring your child, proof of residency, and your ID. There is a replacement fee (typically $27). You do not need to reapply — the DMV can issue a duplicate card with the same number and expiration date.

Does my child need a minor ID card to go to school?

No. Schools do not require a state ID card. Your child's school enrollment records or a school ID are sufficient for school purposes. A state ID card is optional and used mainly for travel, banking, or other situations requiring official photo identification.