Seniors of any age may receive an ID card if they wish. These ID cards are for identification, only, and are not meant for driving purposes. In some states, a regular ID card can be valid for up to eight years, and a senior citizen ID card can be valid for 10 years. To obtain a senior ID card, you must be 62 or older. If a senior wishes to get a DMV ID card, he or she can follow the DMV process. If a senior ID card is lost or stolen, then steps to replace ID card credentials should be taken to replace this important proof of identity item. For more ID card information, including details on how to apply for ID card credentials for seniors, refer to the sections below.
How to Apply for a Senior ID Card
To obtain an ID card, an interested senior will have to go into a local DMV office. Make an appointment before going in, which will allow for obtaining a DMV ID Card faster. Be prepared to fill out a DMV ID card application, which is also known as a Driver’s License or Identification Card Application, and then thumbprints will be taken. After turning in the ID card application, seniors will also need to have a new picture taken. In order to get a new ID card, the senior will need to give the DMV representative his or her Social Security Number so that the DMV can verify the number with the Social Security Administration. Seniors applying for ID cards will also have to verify their identities. They can do this by using or any of the official documents that are approved by their individual states. When the time comes to apply for ID card credentials, applicants must also submit a document that proves their residency in the state in which the request is filed.
Although most states do not charge fees for senior citizen ID cards, it is helpful to contact the DMV to confirm this information prior to applying for identification cards in your state. In addition, note that you cannot hold a drivers license and an ID card at the same time, and you will be asked to surrender a driver license if you choose to transition to an ID card in your state.
Learn About REAL ID Cards for Seniors
As a result of the Real ID Act in 2005, states have begun issuing what is called a REAL ID card to applicants. Starting October 1, 2020 all ID cards will have to be REAL IDs if the senior would like to use the credential to get on a domestic flight or to enter a military base, whether a veteran driver or not. In order to apply for a REAL ID card, the senior must give the DMV proof of Social Security Number, along with the aforementioned documents. In order to prove the Social Security Number for a REAL ID card, bring in a W-2 form, an SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form, a paystub or any other document accepted by your state of residence.
How to Replace ID Card Credentials as a Senior
If the senior’s ID card is lost, stolen or needs to be replaced, he or she may replace the ID card by going to the DMV in person, or by mailing in the necessary documents. If they wish to replace their identification cards online, senior applicants should check their specific state’s rules, as some states allow this. Note that ID card online replacement requires access to a working computer with an internet connection.
If the senior meets the requirements given by his or her state, he or she may renew ID card credentials online. The senior’s name and current address must already be on file at the DMV. If the address is wrong, the senior may update it while online. The senior will also need to input the current senior ID card number, Social Security Number and birthdate.
If the senior has a lost ID card, he or she may opt to replace the ID card through the mail. Before applying for a new ID card this way, the senior should check the state’s requirements. Many states only allow ID-holders to renew IDs by mail if their current senior ID cards have not been expired for more than one year. The senior will have to fill out a Driver’s License or Identification Card Application form in order to obtain the duplicate ID card.
If the senior has a lost ID card and it was a REAL ID non-driver ID, he or she may be required to go into a DMV office to replace the ID. This may also be the case if the ID card was stolen or damaged. While there, seniors will be required to show proof of identity, on top of all of the other requirements to replace an ID card.
If the senior’s ID card is not a REAL ID non-driver ID, he or she may still replace it in person. Complete a Driver License or Identification Card Application form, and then have your thumbprint taken. You will then receive a receipt for the ID card to use until the new ID card comes in the mail. The card should arrive within 60 days, in most states.
How to Renew ID Cards for Seniors
The process to renew an ID card is the same as replacing a lost or stolen card in person. The applicant may be able to renew ID card online in some states. In many states, the senior will need to go into a DMV office, fill out a Driver License or Identification Card Application, have a thumbprint taken and take a new picture.