Buzz
New York State issues identification cards—also referred to as non-driver’s IDs—to individuals who adhere to the correct application process. It's important to note that a NY ID card is distinct from a driver’s license. ID cards are granted through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To apply, you’ll need to present various forms of identification, starting with your Social Security card and birth certificate. Additionally, you’ll be required to pay a nominal application fee.
Steps
Locating and Visiting a DMV Office
Apply for your ID at any age. Since a NY non-driver’s ID does not permit driving, you can apply at any age. It’s permissible to obtain a non-driver’s ID even if your driver’s license has been revoked or suspended, although you must surrender your suspended ID with your application.
- Individuals under 16 years old will require parental or guardian consent to apply for a NY ID card. If you’re 16 or younger, your parents must accompany you to the DMV office.
- If you’re under 16 and mailing in your learner’s permit to exchange it for a non-driver’s ID, your parent or legal guardian must complete the “Parent/Guardian Consent” section on the MV-44 form.
Visit a New York DMV office. To apply for a non-driver’s ID, you must personally visit a physical DMV office in New York. There are numerous DMV offices scattered across the state. For a list of New York City DMV offices, check https://dmv.ny.gov/offices.
- You can also search online to discover the locations and operating hours of New York DMV offices.
Mail your application to a DMV if you’re swapping your driver’s license.
If your driver’s license has expired, or if it's been suspended or revoked, and you wish to exchange it for a non-driver’s ID, you have the option to mail your application. Include the MV-44 application form and a check payable to the “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.” You don’t need to include your expired or revoked driver’s license.
- Mailing your application materials is more convenient (no long DMV lines). However, there's a risk of paperwork getting lost or delayed in the mail.
- Add an extra 3 or 4 days for processing time once the envelope reaches the DMV. The application will be processed at the regular speed once it’s received by the DMV, but you’ll also need to wait for the non-driver’s ID to be mailed back to you.
- You can also mail in the application if you’re swapping your NY learner’s permit for a non-driver’s ID.
Completing the Application Form
Bring a fully completed MV-44 application. This form, also known as the “Application for Permit, Driver License, or Non-driver ID Card,” must be filled out before you proceed with your application.
- You can fill out or download a copy of the MV-44 application online: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv44.pdf.
Bring your birth certificate and Social Security card. Both of these documents are required to verify your US citizenship (or legal resident status). Only US citizens and documented US residents are eligible to apply for a non-driver’s ID. If you weren’t born in the US, bring another document proving your legal resident status.
- If you’ve lost your birth certificate or SSN card, you can apply for replacements for a small fee.
- If you’re mailing your MV-44 form and other application materials, make photocopies of your birth certificate and SSN card and include them in the envelope.
Presenting Secondary Proof and Payment
Provide 4 “proof points” to confirm your identity. In addition to your birth certificate and SSN card, you must furnish other documents validating your identity. New York State assigns different documents varying numbers of “proof points.” You need to present 4 proof points to verify your identity successfully.
- For instance, a university ID card is valued at 2 points, whereas a utility bill is worth 1.
- For a comprehensive list of accepted documents and their corresponding “proof points,” visit: http://www1.nyc.gov/site/idnyc/card/documentation.page.
Include at least 1 signed document. Among the documents contributing to your 4 “proof points,” one must bear your signature to be counted towards your NY ID application. For instance, a marriage or divorce certificate carries 2 points and contains your signature.
- Similarly, you may bring a voided check bearing your signature, though it is only worth 1 point.
Submit the requisite fee. The application fee varies depending on the type of non-driver’s ID you request. A 4-year ID costs $9 USD, while an 8-year ID is priced at $13 USD.
- DMV offices accept payment in cash, credit card, or check.
Tips
-
Arrive early at the DMV office if you're going in person. DMVs in large urban areas are known for long lines and slow service.
-
If you're mailing your application, you may need to include original proof of identification. Check the DMV website for requirements on proof of identification for mailed applications.
-
Keep in mind that an enhanced driver's license only permits land or water travel outside the US. For air travel, a passport is required.
