DC DMV provides several groups of individuals non-driver identification (ID) cards free of charge. These free ID cards will be either REAL ID or Limited Purpose credentials. The categories and requirements to receive a free non-driver ID are outlined below.
Seniors 65 Years and Older
District residents who are 65 years and older receive their non-driver identification card free of charge (both original and renewals). You still must submit the required documentation to DC DMV for proof of identity, Social Security number and residency. You are still required to pay the fee for a replacement non-driver identification card.
Recent Returning Citizens
District residents who were released from prison within the last 6 months are eligible to receive an original 6-month non-driver identification card free of charge. You still must submit the required documentation to DC DMV for proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. You are still required to pay the fee for a replacement non-driver identification card.
You may also submit an authorized letter from the DC Department of Corrections (DC DOC), Court Services & Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), or DC Parole and Probation Agency in place of the proof documents. To verify eligibility for the free 6-month ID card, you must also provide valid release papers indicating you were released from prison within the last 6 months.
Homeless Residents
District residents who are homeless, as certified by an approved social service provider, are eligible to receive an original non-driver identification card free of charge. You still must submit the required documentation to DMV for proof of identity and Social Security number. You must also submit a completed Proof of Residency and No Fee Identification Card form, which you can get from certified social service agencies approved by the DC Department of Human Services. You are still required to pay the fee for a renewal or replacement non-driver identification card.
For purposes of this free ID, “homeless” is defined as an individual lacking a fixed, regular residence or someone who has a primary nighttime residence that is in a shelter, transitional housing, or outside. “Resident” refers to an individual or family who lives in the District voluntarily and not for a temporary purpose. Applicants who intend to stay long-term in the District are considered residents.
Information on the documents you will need as proof of identity, Social Security number, or residency for either type of non-driver identification card is available at the links below.