Obtaining a Pennsylvania ID Number for Your Learner’s Permit

There are specific laws in PA around permits for licenses. You need to be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s permit and must obtain a learner’s permit before you operate a motor vehicle in Pennsylvania. If you are under 18, you are required to wait at least six months before scheduling the driver’s license test. You will also need a state ID for your learner’s permit in PA. In this article, we’ll clarify which supporting documentation you need to obtain a state ID for your learner’s permit in PA.

7 Simple Steps to Get Your Pennsylvania ID Number

1. Complete an application form
2. Provide proof of U.S. citizenship
3. Provide proof of state residency
4. Provide your Social Security Number
5. Have your thumbprint taken
6. Get your picture taken
7. Pay for your ID Card

Supporting Documentation for Getting a Pennsylvania State ID

You will need the following documents to obtain a Pennsylvania ID Card or Driver’s License. Bring them to the driver’s license center to obtain your ID card.

1. Proof of Identity

This can be any of the following:

• A certified copy of a birth certificate with an embossed seal for U.S. citizens
• A valid U.S. passport
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Unexpired employment authorization card
• Valid permanent resident card
• Valid foreign passport with a valid US visa affixed, accompanied by the approved I-94 showing temporary evidence of permanent residence.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You may be required to provide additional documentation if you are not a US citizen.

2. Social Security Card

An original social security card must be used in order to get a REAL ID. To get a PA state ID without a social security card, you need a rejection letter from Social Security explaining that you are not eligible for an SSN. Then, visit the Social Security Office Lancaster PA with your immigration documents, passport, and I-20 form.

3. Proof of Residency

You will need two items as proof of residency in Pennsylvania:

• Lease agreement from within PA
• Current utility bills—online billing statements are not acceptable
• A bank statement may be acceptable
• Proof of legal name, date of birth, and/or gender designation change (if applicable)

For more information, please see the detailed list of all acceptable documents here.

Pennsylvania State ID FAQs

Can I Get a PA State ID Online?

Only pre-verified customers can apply online. To become verified, visit any PennDOT driver’s license center to have your documents verified to get your REAL ID within 15 business days.

What Is a REAL ID?

Federal law affects how states issue ID cards and driver’s licenses in order for them to be acceptable for federal purposes.

The REAL ID is optional for Pennsylvania residents. However from May 3, 2023, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, and photo ID card to board a domestic commercial flight, enter a federal building or military base that requires ID. The standard ID will work for your driver’s license and general identification purposes.

How Do I Pay For a REAL ID in PA?

All PennDOT driver’s license centers accept debit or credit cards, checks, or money orders as forms of payment, but no cash. The Riverfront Office Center Customer Counter accepts debit and credit cards only. The REAL ID ID requires a once-off fee of $30, plus a renewal fee.

REAL ID Centers Near Me in PA

• Apply online (pre-verified customers only)
• Visit any PennDOT Driver License Center to have your documents verified and imaged, and receive your REAL ID within 15 business days.
• Visit a REAL ID Center to have your documents verified and imaged and receive your REAL ID immediately.

Getting your license should be hassle-free—and we’re here to help.