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Identification Cards in New York
Why Get an ID Card?
What if you need to show an ID, but you don't drive and don't need a license (or your license has been revoked)? Fortunately, you don't need to jump through the hoops of getting a driver license just to prove your age or identity.
You can get a New York non-driver photo ID card for between $10 and $14 without taking any tests, and you don't need an appointment. Use the ID to:
- Cash a check
- Apply for a job
- Open a bank account
- Get an apartment
- Apply for college
- Board an airplane
Need more reasons for getting an ID card? Visit New York's ID page.
How to Apply
Visit your local DMV office with:
- A completed Form MV-44 (Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card)
- Proper identification and proof of birth date
- Payment for ID card fee
New York's website provides easy-to-follow steps on how to obtain a birth certificate or Social Security number. The state also has detailed information on how to procure identification for the following special situations:
- ―Born outside of U.S.
- ―Don't have U.S. citizenship status
- ―In Foster Care
- ―Have a criminal record
- ―Under 16 years old
You may get an ID card at any age, but applicants under 16 require parental consent. You may not have both a New York State driver license or learner permit and a non-driver photo ID card.
For applicants under 62, a short-term ID card is valid for four to five years and costs $9 to $10. A long-term ID card is valid for eight to nine years and costs $13 to $14. The DMV will issue you a temporary card when you apply, and your permanent photo ID card will arrive in the mail within five weeks.
Seniors 62 and older and those under 62 who are receiving Social Security Income (SSI) may apply for a 10-year card for a reduced fee of only $6.50. For this you'll need to prove your name and age and, if you receive SSI, provide one of the following Social Security Administration documents as proof that you receive SSI:
- Notice of Award
- Notice of Change in Payment (SSA-L8151)
- Report of Confidential Social Security Benefit Information (SSA-2458)
- Benefit Verification Letter
Renewing Your ID Card
Please see our comprehensive section on how to Renew Your New York Driver's License, which includes all the information you'll need in order to renew your New York ID card.
Replacing Your ID Card
In New York
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged ID card, visit your local DMV office. You'll need to complete Form MV-44, prove your identity with state-approved documentation, and pay applicable fees.
- $8 for a four-year or eight-year ID
- $6.50 for a 10-year ID
- Free if you are 62 or older and receive Social Security income
Out of State
To apply for a duplicate ID by mail:
- Fill out Form MV-44. There are instructions as well.
- Provide adequate proof of identity. Photocopies are typically prohibited, but not for out-of-state applicants.
- Pay your fee: $8 for a four-year or eight-year ID; $6.50 for a 10-year ID; $0 if you are 62 or older and receive Social Security income.
- Mail your application to:
- DMV License Production Bureau
- P.O. Box 2688-ESP
- Albany, NY 12220-0668
A comprehensive list of instructions appears on the state's website.
Other Information
You cannot apply for a duplicate ID online.
Make sure your address is current before issuing the new ID.
Protect your identity. Report a lost or stolen ID card to the authorites with Form MV-78B. You'll need to get the form directly from the police department, not the DMV.
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