Identification Cards

Importance of Having an ID Card

Even those of us who do not―whether by chance or by choice―drive, need some kind of identification. These days, solid, irrefutable, and valid identification is required in order to do any business, including banking, buying property, obtaining credit, writing a check, buying an airline ticket, traveling, and a host of other things.

Anyone May Apply

The great thing about Alaska's non-driver identification cards, is that anyone, at any age, including children, may apply. The identification card is valid for five years after it has been issued and expires on the applicant's birthday.

Apply for an Identification Card

To apply for an Alaska state identification card, you will be required to present the same identification as is required for a driver's license, which includes:

• One primary identification that can prove your date of birth

• One secondary identification that will prove your identity

What to Expect at the DMV Office

Here's what you will need to be prepared to do once you get to the DMV office to apply for your Alaska state ID card:

• Present the identification from the two lists above

• Present your Social Security card or a letter from the Social Security Administration verifying your number (now required for an original Alaska license, permit or identification card)

• Have your picture taken

• Younger than age 60: pay the identification card fee of $15

• Age 60 or older: no fee for an identification card

Identification Card Fees

• New identification card, replacement identification card or renewal of identification card for person younger than 60: $15

• New identification card, replacement identification card or renewal of identification card for person age 60 or older: no charge

When to Go to the DMV Office

The DMV has determined when they have the largest crowds and when things slow down a bit. It is suggested that in order to avoid long waits, you go to the DMV office at these times:

• Before noon

• The middle of the month

• The middle of that office's work week

And, avoid the DMV if at all possible during these busiest times:

• The last few days of the month

• The very beginning of the month

• Between the hours of 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily

• Mondays or Tuesdays, depending on the office schedule

Some Alaska DMV offices are equipped with office Web cams. Check to see if your office has a Web cam available so that you can check the crowds before you head out to the DMV office.

Renewing an ID Card

Identification cards must be renewed in person at the DMV. When you go to renew your identification card be prepared to do the following:

• Surrender your current identification card

• Have your picture taken

• Under age 60: pay the renewal fee of $15

• Age 60 or over: no fee for renewal

Identification cards may be renewed just like a driver's license; in the last year that the card is valid, at any time after your birthday.

For example, if your birthday is June 1 and your driver's license expires on your birthday in 2009, you may renew your identification card on or after June 2, 2008, up until May 31, 2009.

Replacing an ID Card

Follow the same procedures and for replacing a lost or destroyed driver's license. When you get to the DMV office to replace your lost, stolen or destroyed identification card, be prepared to do the following:

• Surrender any remaining portion of a destroyed card

• Have your picture taken

• Younger than age 60: pay the replacement fee of $15

• Age 60 or older: no fee for a replacement ID card