The Legal Aid Society Reentry Services Non-Driver License ID - How to Get a Non-Driver License ID

Sep 19, 2026

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Guide to obtaining a non-driver license ID through The Legal Aid Society Reentry Services, explaining how a government-issued ID supports identity verification and access to key services. Compares New York State (NYS ID) and New York City (IDNYC) eligibility, costs, and benefits, including options like Standard, REAL, and Enhanced IDs. Lists required documents, application timing after release, and provides steps for completing Form MV-44, with notes for veterans and document certification rules.

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How to Get a Non-Driver License ID

NYS ID vs. IDNYC

Required Documents

How to Apply: NYS ID

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Step 2: Complete the Application (Form MV-44)

The Legal Aid Society Reentry Services Non-Driver License ID How to Get a Non-Driver License ID A government-issued ID is helpful for establishing your identity and accessing important services, like health care and housing. If you do not have a Driver’s License, you have two options: a New York State ID (NYS ID) or a New York City ID (IDNYC). • NYS ID: official photo ID with basically the same benefits as a Driver License except you cannot drive. You must have lawful immigration status to apply. (Below is a more detailed comparison.) • IDNYC: while not as widely accepted as valid photo ID, it is accepted for some important purpose (e.g., by NYPD, to apply for SNAP, etc.) Any NYC resident can apply regardless of immigration status. Having an NYS ID is preferable if you’re able to get it. There are three types: • Standard: valid state ID but cannot be used for federal purposes (e.g., entering a federal building or flying) • Real ID: valid ID for state and federal purposes. This is the ID most people will want to get, if possible. • Enhanced ID: valid ID for state and federal purposes plus traveling from Mexico, Canada, and some Caribbean countries by land/sea (not air) to the U.S. Must be a U.S. Citizen to obtain. You can get both an NYS ID and an IDNYC. IDNYC offers free and discounted benefits at lots of cultural institutions and sporting events within NYC that NYS ID does not offer. NYS ID v. IDNYC | | NYS ID | IDNYC | | --- | --- | --- | | Eligibility | • NY State Resident
• Any age
• Lawful immigration status (for Enhanced ID, must be a U.S. Citizen) | • NYC Resident
• 10 years or older
• Immigration status does not matter | | Cost | Standard and REAL IDs: Fee ranges from $6.00- 14.00 depending on type of ID and age. Enhanced ID: Fee ranges from $36.00 – 44.00 depending on age.
You can get any NYS ID for FREE if:
→ Age 62+ and get SSI
→ Any age and receive Public Assistance, SNAP, or Medical Assistance | FREE | | | NYS ID | IDNYC | | --- | --- | --- | | Benefits | Standard: Official ID for state purposes including
• Anywhere IDNYC is accepted as a valid ID
• Applying for state health programs like Medicaid
• Buying alcohol and tobacco
REAL ID: Official ID for state and federal purposes including
• All of the above
• Flying within the U.S.
• Entering a federal building
Enhanced ID: Official ID for state and federal purposes including
• All of the above
• Traveling from Mexico, Canada, and some Caribbean countries by land/sea (not air) to the U.S. | Accepted as valid ID:
• By NYC agencies when applying for SNAP, Cash Assistance, and Section 8
• To apply for health care in NYS Health Insurance Marketplace
• To register at many NYC Health + Hospital facilities
• By NYPD
• For entry into public/City buildings (e.g., schools)
• For taking GED exam in NYC
• By employers when submitted with proof of work authorization
• To open a bank account at certain banks
Can be used:
• As library card at BK, NY, and QNS libraries
• To get discounts off some prescriptions
• To get 1-year free admission to many NYC cultural institutions and sporting events
• To get discounts at many entertainment, health and fitness, and sporting events
• To access official immunization records from the Citywide Immunization Registry
• To get additional benefits for Veterans with Veterans Designation
It does NOT allow you to: Drive; Travel by plane; Buy alcohol or tobacco | | Required Documents | You will need a combination of documents to demonstrate:
• Your name
• Date of birth
• Lawful status in the U.S.
• New York State Residency
• Social Security (only for a REAL ID and Enhanced ID)
Use the online worksheet or screening tool. Some common documents are: NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Released Offender ID card, Social Security Card, Passport, Birth Certificate. If you do

FAQs

What are the main options if you do not have a Driver’s License in New York?

You can choose a New York State ID (NYS ID) or a New York City ID (IDNYC). Both serve as government-issued photo identification for different purposes.

What are the differences among Standard, REAL, and Enhanced NYS IDs?

Standard works for state purposes but not federal uses, REAL supports both state and federal purposes (including flying and entering federal buildings), and Enhanced adds specific land/sea travel allowances but requires U.S. citizenship.

What documents are commonly required to apply for an NYS ID or an IDNYC?

You must provide a combination showing identity, date of birth, lawful status (for NYS), and residency. Common examples include a Social Security card, passport or birth certificate, and NYS DOCCS Released Offender ID card, with IDNYC also requiring NYC residency proof like a lease or utility bill.

Sep 19, 2026

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