
Applicants must submit evidence of their complete and true first, middle and last names. Basic documentation required for all applicants includes: Applicants requesting REAL ID-compliant cards will need to meet additional criteria. What do you need to get an ID in California?Īll applicants must provide certain basic identity documents.

Non-driver IDs are also valid for longer than the average drivers license, and cannot be suspended do to accidents or holder behavior, except in extreme circumstances. A prime example is parents’ ability to obtain a child ID card for their children, regardless of the youth’s age. In some respects, non-drivers IDs offer residents advantages not available with drivers licenses. For example, card holders can use their non-driver IDs to facilitate interstate and international travel, when applying for state and federal assistance programs or when requesting government-issued documents, such as marriage licenses, or vital records, such as birth and death records.

As such, it can be used wherever officially-issued identification documents are required. Like a license, a state identification card serves as verified legal documentation of one’s identity, age and residency status.

How to Apply for a New Identification Card in CaliforniaĪ California state ID card is an ideal option for residents who cannot – or do not wish to – obtain drivers licenses.
