In California, the cost of obtaining an ID card can vary depending on factors such as age and whether the applicant qualifies for any fee waivers. The price of a California ID card is set by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and currently stands at $31. However, there are several exemptions and discounts available that can lower this cost significantly or even make it free for certain individuals.
For most applicants, the standard fee for a California ID card is $31. This fee covers the application processing and the production of the physical card. However, applicants who are 62 years old or older are eligible for a reduced fee of $9. Individuals with a disability that qualifies them for a California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) driver’s license are also eligible for the reduced fee of $9. Moreover, homeless individuals can obtain a California ID card for free by providing a documentation signed by a homeless shelter, social services agency or faith-based organization that verifies their homeless status.
For individuals who are unable to afford the standard fee, the DMV offers a Fee Waiver Program that allows qualifying applicants to receive a California ID card for free. To qualify for the fee waiver, applicants must either be receiving public assistance benefits such as Medi-Cal, Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP), CalFresh or California Work Opportunities and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs), or have a household income that is less than or equal to 138% of the federal poverty guidelines.
In addition to the standard fees and fee waivers, there are other costs associated with obtaining a California ID card that applicants should be aware of. For example, applicants who need to take a new photo for their ID card must pay an additional $6 fee. The fee for replacing a lost or stolen ID card is $32, while the fee for renewing an expiring ID card is $30. Furthermore, applicants who are requesting a name change on their ID card must provide legal documentation such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order, and pay a fee of $28.
Overall, the cost of a California ID card can range from free to $32 depending on the applicant’s age, disability status, income level, and specific circumstances. The DMV offers various discounts and exemptions to ensure that all eligible individuals have access to a valid form of identification. Applicants can visit the DMV website or contact their local DMV office for more information on the specific costs and requirements for obtaining a California ID card.
