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Get a Photo ID

An identification card is issued to any Pennsylvania resident who is at least 10 years of age. This is not a driving product. For more information on free IDs for individuals experiencing homelessness, please click here.

Process 

Step 1:

You may mail the appropriate form following the instructions listed on the form to PennDOT, or visit your local Driver License Center and take along the following: 
    1. A completed Form DL-54A (PDF), “Application for Initial Photo Identification Card.”
    2. Acceptable Proof of Identification          
    3. Your Social Security Card. If you do not have a Social Security card, please click here.
    4. If you are 18 or older, two acceptable forms of address verification are required. 
    5. A debit or credit card, or a check or money order payable to PennDOT for the appropriate fee (cash is not accepted).
Please note: If you are under the age of 18 applying for a Photo ID card, a parent, guardian or person in loco parentis must accompany you to a PennDOT Driver License Center.

Step 2: 

When your application and supporting documentation have been reviewed and processed, a Driver License Center staff member will direct you to the Photo Center to have your photo taken for your Photo ID card.

Step 3:

Once your photo has been taken, you will be issued your Photo ID card. PennDOT uses state-of-the-art facial recognition technology when an individual has their photo taken for their driver’s license/identification card.

Getting a Photo ID Card If You Already Have a Driver’s License

Step 1:

Complete Form DL-54A (PDF), “Application for Initial Photo Identification Card."  You mail the appropriate form following the instructions listed on the form to PennDOT, or visit your local Driver License Center with your driver’s license or another Acceptable Proof of Identification. 

Step 2:

Submit the application and supporting documentation along with a check or money order payable to PennDOT for the appropriate fee (cash is not accepted). Debit or credit cards are also accepted.

Step 3:

When your application and supporting documentation have been reviewed and processed, a Driver License Center staff member will direct you to the Photo Center to have your photo taken for your Photo ID card or, if your photo image is already on file, a Photo ID card may be issued without requiring you to have a new photo taken. 

Step 4:

A Photo ID card is issued to you. PennDOT uses state-of-the-art facial recognition technology when an individual has their photo taken for their driver’s license/identification card.