Importance of ID Cards

One of the few services administered directly under the auspices of the state rather than by the four island counties individually is the ID card program. In this case, the Department of the Attorney General is the overseer. The ID card is a substitute for the local driver's license and is a good idea for those who do not own a vehicle but are in need of an official form of identification.

In this high-alert day and age, it is literally imperative to have some sort of photo document that specifies who you are. Plus, you need identification just to make it through the day nowadays. It is necessary to cash checks, open a bank account, board an airplane, get into some of the state's hopping clubs, or just purchase cigarettes or alcohol. Many people, especially in Hawaii, own passports―but passports are bulky and not so easy to carry in a wallet or pocketbook.

State ID Card Requirements

Just about anyone living on the islands can apply for an ID card with the proper documentation. The one major hindrance to getting one is if you already possess a license or ID card from another state, or if you already have a current Hawaii license. You can't have both a license and an ID card, so you'll have to choose one or the other.

Other than that, it is just a matter of matching your type of citizenship with the correct paperwork. Click the links below to see what forms of identification are acceptable for each:

• U.S. citizens

• U.S. nationals

• Noncitizens

Even those not eligible to apply for any form of driver's license or permit due to age (i.e. those under 14) can apply for the ID card. If you fall into this category, though, you will need the approval of a parent or guardian.

Note: All of the documents need to be originals―no photocopies. You will also need to provide your actual Social Security card.

Steps to Apply for a State ID Card

To get a state identification card, you must appear in person at the main office in Honolulu or at one of the neighbor island locations.

Next you will need to complete the State ID Application. This form asks all the usual questions and allows you to choose whether or not you would like to register as an organ donor.

Hawaii also has an option to denote on a license or ID card the presence of an Advanced Health Care Directive. This will direct medical professionals to forms letting your loved ones know of your wishes should you become incapacitated.

Fears of identity theft have caused people to be more protective of their Social Security number. It is no longer even posted on the Hawaii driver's license. Those not wishing to have their Social Security number printed on the ID card can opt to have an alternate ID number assigned to them.

This computer-generated number is a bit like being given a randomly selected driver's license number, and it serves as an identifying number to merchants and the like (for writing a check, for example).

Fees and Renewals

An ID card runs $15 for those up to 65 years of age and $10 for those 65 and over. It is valid for six years and may be renewed at the main office in Honolulu or at one of the neighbor island locations.

If you have your current ID, have not changed your name or citizenship status, and are either a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien, you'll simply need to complete an ID card application to renew your card.

However, if you don't fit into this category, bring your current passport along with a valid I-94 card, Form I-20, or Form IAP to renew your ID card.

If you're at least 65 years old, and if you haven't changed your name or citizenship status, you may renew by mail. Call (808)587-3112 for details, and to verify your eligibility.

Replacing an ID Card

To replace a missing or stolen card, go to an office location and complete an ID card application. Bring the type of identification needed to apply for an original ID card for your particular situation, as mentioned above in the "Steps to Take" section.

Replacement cards costs $15, but are free for those 65 years and older.

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