Identification Cards

Who Needs ID

While not everyone drives, everyone is going to need picture identification at some point. What better way to obtain the identification you need than by applying for a Louisiana non-driver ID card?

With your ID card, you get all the benefits of a driver's license. The only difference is that you just aren't allowed to drive. When you apply, you have the option of becoming an organ donor, registering to vote, and registering with Selective Services.

The applications you'll find in this section can be viewed using the free Adobe Reader software.

How to Apply

To apply for your identification card, download and complete the Application for License or Identification Card. Or, just pick one up at your nearest Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) location.

Next, take the application, the $21 fee, and the proper identification documents to your local OMV. You'll need one primary form and two secondary forms of ID. These are the same forms of identification used to apply for a driver's license. Louisiana provides a complete list of acceptable documents online.

Fees for a non-driver ID card may vary depending on the OMV location. It's recommended that you call your local OMV office to find out the exact fee. Applicants age 60 or older are not charged for identification cards.

There is no age requirement for obtaining an identification card in Louisiana. However, if you're under the age of 18, you'll need a parent or legal guardian with a photo ID to sign for you.

Non-U.S. Citizen Identification Card

Non-immigrant and immigrant aliens, as well as refugees, will need to provide the same documentation as needed when applying for a driver's license. Student non-immigrants must also provide an I-20 form.

In order for an identification card to be issued, there must be at least 90 days remaining on the applicant's VISA/I-94.

All new residents should check out our New to Louisiana section for more information.

Renewing Your ID Card

Louisiana conveniently offers you the options of renewing your identification card in one of four ways:

• In person at an Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV)

• By mail

• Online

• Over the telephone with interactive voice response (IVR)

OMV Renewals

If you prefer renewing your identification card in person, head out to your local OMV location. Take your ID card, along with payment for the appropriate fees, which vary depending on the length of your renewal.

Mail Renewals

If you're eligible to renew by mail, you'll need to download and complete the Application for License or Identification Card. Indicate that you're using the application for renewal purposes.

The fees for renewals by mail are $15.50. Mail the application, along with the appropriate fees, to:

• Office of Motor Vehicles

• Vehicle Renewal Mail-In Unit

• P.O. Box 64886

• Baton Rouge, LA 70896

Online and IVR Renewals

If you've received an invitation to renew online or by IVR, your specific instructions will be included on the invitation.

You'll probably want to visit Louisiana's Identification Card Renewal Web pages.

In short, renewing online is a five-step process that requires your current identification card, a valid credit card, and your renewal invitation.

Before you pay, the system will explain your specific fees to you. You'll then be given the option to authorize payment.

To renew using IVR, simply call 1-888-956-5111 and follow your specific instructions, including those on the invitation.

Remember

Per Section 1, Policy 4.01, you can't renew your ID card by mail, online, or using IVR every time. In other words, if you used the online renewal option last time, you'll need to renew in person next time. This is so a new picture can be taken. This is pretty easy to keep up with, as the OMV won't mail you an invitation if it's time for you to have another picture taken.

If you are eligible to renew by mail, online, or using IVR, but you need to make any name and/or address changes, you must instead renew at your local OMV location.

Those who renew by mail, online, or using IVR won't receive a new ID card. They'll receive a renewal sticker to be attached to the back of the ID card.

Replacing Your ID Card

Lost, damaged or stolen ID cards require a trip to your local OMV office.

You'll need to bring at least two documents proving your identity, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card. See the state's Web site for a listing of acceptable documents.

You can only replace your ID card in person, not online or by mail. If you are 17 or younger, you'll also need a legal guardian to accompany you to the OMV.

A duplicate ID card will cost you $16, unless you can present a police report showing the card was stolen, in which case it's free.

Expirations

The Louisiana OMV understands that unexpected events can get us a bit side-tracked. That's why the state allows ID card holders to renew up to 180 days before the expiration date.

Louisiana also allows a 10 day "grace period" of sorts, meaning you have 10 days after the day your ID expires to renew it without being charged a $15 late fee.

For more information regarding LA identification cards, refer to our entire Driver's License and ID section.

MORE LICENSE AND IDENTIFICATION DMV.ORG SECTIONS

• Passport Application and Renewal
• Renewing Your Louisiana License
• Replacing Your Lost Louisiana License
• Changing Your Name or Address
• Other Louisiana License Information