What a New York DMV ID Card Is and Who Can Get One

A New York DMV ID card is a state-issued photo identification document that proves your identity and age. Unlike a driver's license, it does not give you permission to drive. You can use it at banks, airports, bars, and other places that require photo ID. New York issues ID cards to anyone 16 or older who does not have or does not want a driver's license.

You do not need to be a New York resident to get one, but you must have a valid Social Security number and proof of your identity and date of birth. The card is valid for eight years if you are under 62, and for life if you are 62 or older.

Key Takeaways

  • A New York DMV ID card is a photo ID that proves your identity but does not allow you to drive.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of date of birth, and proof of your Social Security number to the DMV office.
  • The card costs $30 for eight years if you are under 62, or $20 for a lifetime card if you are 62 or older.
  • You can explore in person at any DMV office, and the card is usually ready to pick up within two weeks.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

The DMV requires three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of date of birth, and proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable documents for proof of identity include a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, a foreign passport, or a permanent resident card. If you bring a birth certificate, you must also bring a second form of ID such as a school ID, employee ID, or library card.

For proof of date of birth, you can use a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, a foreign passport, or a permanent resident card. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring an official English translation along with the original.

how the process works at a DMV Office

Visit any DMV office in New York during business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and some are open on Saturday mornings. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the New York DMV website.

When you arrive, take a number from the ticket machine and wait to be called. Tell the clerk you want to explore for a non-driver ID card. The clerk will check your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.

You will receive a receipt with a temporary ID number. Your permanent card will be mailed to the address you provide within two weeks. If you need the card sooner, some DMV offices offer expedited service for an extra fee.

Cost and Card Validity

A New York DMV ID card costs $30 if you are under 62 years old. The card is valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you are 62 or older, the card costs $20 and is valid for life. You do not need to renew it after it expires.

The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most offices. Some offices may accept checks. If you are unsure what payment methods your local office takes, call ahead before you go.

Renewing or Replacing Your Card

If your card is expiring and you are under 62, you can renew it by mail or in person. To renew by mail, send your current card, a completed process form, and your fee to the address listed on the DMV website. Renewal by mail usually takes four to six weeks.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a replacement in person at a DMV office. Bring your documents as if you were explore for the first time. A replacement card costs the same as a new card and takes the same amount of time to arrive.

If your name, address, or other information on your card changes, you can update it by mail or in person. Contact your local DMV office to find out which method is faster in your area.

Special Circumstances and Exceptions

If you are under 16, you cannot get a standard DMV ID card. However, you can get a junior ID card, which is valid until your 16th birthday. A junior ID card costs $5 and requires the same documents as a standard card, plus written consent from a parent or guardian.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can request an interpreter at your DMV appointment. Call ahead to arrange this. If you have a disability that makes it difficult to visit an office, contact your local DMV to ask about other options.

If you are a non-citizen, you can still get a New York DMV ID card if you have a valid Social Security number and proof of identity. Permanent residents, refugees, and asylees are all able to get cards. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a standard ID card, but they may be able to get a limited-purpose ID card through a different program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a New York DMV ID card if I do not have a Social Security number?

No, a valid Social Security number is required. If you do not have one, you must first explore for one through the Social Security Administration. Once you have a number, you can explore for the ID card at the DMV.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get another one?

You can use other documents to prove your identity and date of birth, such as a U.S. passport, a foreign passport, or a permanent resident card. If you do not have any of these, contact your local DMV office to ask what other documents they will accept.

How long does it take to get my card after I explore?

Your card is usually mailed to you within two weeks of your process. If you need it sooner, ask the DMV clerk about expedited service when you explore. Expedited cards may be ready within a few days, but there is an extra fee.

Can I use my New York DMV ID card to fly on an airplane?

Yes, a New York DMV ID card is accepted as a valid form of identification by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at airports. You can use it to board domestic flights.

What should I do if my card arrives with an error on it?

Contact your local DMV office right away and bring your card with you. The DMV will issue a corrected card at no extra charge. Bring the same documents you brought when you first applied.