California State Identification Cards Application

The DMV also issues state I.D. cards on top of driver’s licenses. These identification cards may be used in any transaction that requires an identity document. 

Application for an ID card is open to anyone. The cost is $30 for applying for an original ID, renewing one or changing name. Senior citizens do not have to pay to get their card. Similarly, those who qualify as “homeless” under the McKinney-Vento Act may also get theirs for free. Meanwhile, those who fall under the income bracket set by some assistance programs may pay a lower amount when applying for or renewing an ID card.

What Are the Requirements for a California ID Card?

• Accomplished DL 44 application form. You need to complete the online electronic ID card application form before going to the DMV office.

• A valid identity document like US birth certificate, US Passport card or certificate of naturalization or citizenship, among others. Only original documents or certified copies of the original documents are accepted.

• Legal Full Name. Your legal full name is the name stated on your identity documents. In case you’ve changed your name, you must provide documents to support this like original copies of adoption papers, marriage certificate, marriage dissolution papers, etc. 

• Social Security Number (SSN), if you have one.

• Proof of California residency. You only need to have 1 document, but it should contain your legal name as well as your address (same as the one on your application form).

• Existing ID cards, if you have any.

• Photograph*

• Fingerprint image*

* Your photograph and scanned fingerprint are going to be captured at the DMV office.

How to Apply for a California ID Card

• Before going to the DMV office, set an appointment online via the DMV CA website or call them at 1-800-777-0133.
  
• Accomplish the ID application form (DL 44) online. You cannot proceed to the DMV office without doing this. Take the application confirmation with you on your scheduled visit.

   

• Bring all the above-mentioned documents with you.

   

• When you are called to the window, present all the required documents and wait for the fingerprint scanning.

   

• Pay the indicated fee.

   

• Check if all the information on the document is correct.

   

• Wait for your signature to be captured and your photograph to be taken. This is the last step.

If your application is approved, you can expect to receive your California ID Card within two months.

Click here to find out more about driving in California or sign up for California Drivers Ed or Traffic School Online.