Identification Cards in Pennsylvania
SUMMARY: Pennsylvania Identification Cards
Applications for a PA identification card must be made in person at a PennDOT office. To renew or replace a state ID card, you must order a camera card either online or by mail, then obtain your ID card in person at a photo center. ID cards cost $41.50.
Continue reading this page to learn how to apply for an identification card from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
Pennsylvania REAL ID Cards
PennDOT issues federally-compliant REAL IDs in addition to non-compliant identification cards. As of October 1, 2021, only the REAL ID will function as federal identification for domestic travel and entry into federal and military buildings—a standard ID card will not after this date.
You have the choice to apply for a non-compliant ID or upgrade to a REAL ID. For more detail, visit PennDOT's guide to REAL IDs.
Apply for a PA Identification Card
If you're a legal Pennsylvania resident, you can apply for a non-driver ID card when you turn 10 years old.
You will need to visit your local PennDOT office with:
- A completed Application for Initial Identification Card (Form DL-54A).
- Proof of your identity and legal U.S. presence, such as your:
- U.S. birth certificate with raised seal (copies will not be accepted).
- Valid U.S. passport.
- Your Social Security card.
- Proof of your PA address (2 documents) if you're 18 years old or older, such as your:
- Lease agreement.
- W-2.
- Current utility bill.
- Payment for the $41.50 fee.
Visit the PennDOT website for a complete list of accepted and required documents for both:
- REAL ID-compliant identification cards.
- Non-compliant identification cards.
Once your photo is taken, you'll receive your non-driver ID card.
Renew/Replace a Pennsylvania ID Card
To renew or replace your PA state ID card, you will first need to request a camera card either online or by mail. First, though, check to see if PennDOT already has the right documents on file to issue you a REAL ID. Once you're pre-verified, you may be able to apply for your new REAL ID-compliant identification card online.
Otherwise, to request a camera card by mail, you will need to complete:
- The renewal application form sent to you by PennDOT.
OR
- A Photo Identification Card Application for Change/Correction/Replacement/Renew (Form DL-54B). Use this form if:
- You did not receive a renewal application from PennDOT and your ID card expires within the next 6 months.
OR
- You are ordering a replacement ID card.
- You did not receive a renewal application from PennDOT and your ID card expires within the next 6 months.
Send the application form and payment for the $42.50 fee to the address listed on the form to receive a camera card.
NOTE: You should receive your camera card within 10 days. If you haven't received it after this time, contact PennDOT directly.
Once you have received your camera card, you will need to visit a PennDOT photo center and:
- Provide your camera card.
- Provide proof of your identity and signature, such as your:
- PA state ID card.
- Passport.
- Employee ID card.
- Verify your Social Security number (SSN), if required.
- Have your photo taken.
Change Your Name or Address
If you've moved to a new address in PA, you must notify PennDOT within 15 days. You can do this either:
- Online.
- By mail.
OR
- In person.
NOTE: You will receive an update card showing your new address. If you'd like a replacement ID card, you will need to apply for one.
Visit our Changing Your Address in Pennsylvania page for complete instructions.
Updating your name on your PA identification card can be done either by mail or in person. You will need to show proof of your new name, such as your:
- Marriage certificate.
- Court order.
- Divorce decree.
More information can be found on our Changing Your Name page.
