How to Get a Maryland Identification Card
Published July 26, 2022
So why would you need a Maryland photo ID in the first place?
For one, companies are required to ask for identification upon hiring. Besides that, such an ID can be very helpful if you’re trying to avail of certain types of government services. Also, you’ll need an ID to get inside buildings to attend where public benefit cases and hearings are held.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For A Maryland ID?
It’s possible to obtain a Maryland ID if you are:
- A citizen of the United States
- An immigrant with permanent residency status
- A non-immigrant with valid U.S citizenship and immigration records
What Requirements Do I Need To Apply?
To get a Maryland ID, you’ll need to bring your social security card, proof of identity, residency, and citizenship.
Accepted documents showcasing proof of identity and date of birth:
- U.S birth certificate
- A valid U.S passport
- Permanent residency card
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) – original or certified
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Unexpired foreign passport
- Unexpired consular ID
- Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) – unexpired
- US or MD Birth Certificate for adopted individuals with Adoption Records/Certificate/Decree
If you lack an unexpired foreign passport or an unexpired consular identification, you have to present two from the list below. At least one must contain a photo not older than eight years:
- National identification card
- Foreign birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- US state driver’s license
- Foreign driver’s license
- US state identification card
- Certified school records, DL-300
- US military identification card
- I-766 employment authorization document
- US military dependent identification card
Individuals who’ve changed their needs shall need these additional documents:
- Marriage certificate for married people
- Divorce certificate for divorced individuals
- A court-ordered document of your name change
Proof of lawful presence in the United States:
- U.S birth certificate
- Valid U.S passport
- A valid foreign passport with a U.S. visa and I-94.
Two documents proving your residency in the state of Maryland:
Please note: All documents must show the applicant’s name and address. Also, they must not be expired and from the same company, agency, or business.
- Utility, telephone, or cable/satellite TV bill
- Maryland vehicle registration card or title
- Checking or savings account statement
- Life insurance card or policy
- Property tax bill or receipt
- Insurance card or policy
- Installment contract from a financial institution
- Sales tax or business license
- Major credit card and department/retail store credit card bills
- Residential service contracts
- Selective service card
- Canceled check with name and address
- Mortgage account or proof of home ownership
- Residential rental contract for a rental property
- First class or priority mail from a federal, state, or local government agency
Maryland residency exemptions:
- Any person may certify residency for a spouse, parent, child, or other dependent on their behalf given they’ve got all the proper documents
- Letter from a nursing home, transitional service provider, halfway house, or homeless shelter indicating the applicant receives mail.
- Order of mandatory release/parole or statement signed within the application.
One copy of proof of your social security:
- Social Security card
- SSA-1099 displaying showing your entire social security number and name
- Non-SSA – 1099 form showing your entire social security number and name
- Recent W-2 showing your entire social security number and name
- Proof of ineligibility
- Document from Social Security Administration showcasing non-work authorized status
- Pay stub showing your name and full social security number – not older than three months.
Remember: If the name on your social security card doesn’t match your IDs, you will need to change your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) before heading over to a Maryland MVA office.
Furthermore, all documents that you present must be original, certified, or “true test” copies.
How Much Are The Fees?
Yes and no. While most people will have to pay for their Maryland identification card, others are exempt. The fees you’ll need to pay for a new, duplicate, or renewed ID may vary:
- Below 18 years old - $15 (new and renewals)
- Above 18 years old - $24 (new and renewals)
- Duplicate Maryland identification cards- $20
- 65 years old and above - ID card is free
- Disables individuals - ID card is free
How Long Will My Photo ID Remain Valid?
The length of validity of your Maryland identification card depends on your age. Anyone above the age of eighteen will be able to hold their card for eight years. Meanwhile, those who are eighteen and under shall be eligible to receive an MD ID card that expires within five years.
Will I Recieve My Maryland Photo ID Within The Day?
Nope. Sadly, it’s not possible to apply for a Maryland photo ID and then receive it on the same day.
You’ll need to wait for it to arrive at your residence via mail. Hence, expect to wait several days before you get your hands on your new MD identification card.
FAQs
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What if I’m an immigrant without U.S citizenship or legal documentation?
Immigrants without U.S citizenship, residency, or any sort of legal documentation can apply for a non-compliant driver’s license or identification card. However, this identification card will differ from your regular Maryland identification card. Needless to say, it’s the next best thing to it.
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How do I get a veteran status code on my Maryland ID card?
Aside from all the documents mentioned above, a veteran will need to present an original and certified copy of any document that proves veteran status.
Examples of such documents include:
- Honorable discharge certificate
- DD-214 military discharge certificate
Individuals who don’t have these documents should get in touch with the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs. With their help, you’ll be able to procure these documents in no time.
The Bottom Line
A Maryland identification card is something that anyone who resides in Maryland should have.
Without the ID, you won’t be eligible to take advantage of certain public services. Furthermore, it shall be much harder to find a job because employers are required to ask for proof of identity. In addition, it would be nice to have another government ID aside from your usual driver’s license.
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About The Author
Christian Cruz is an experienced blogger with a deep passion for content creation. He descends from a long line of lawyers, writers, and educators. Over the years, Chris has tackled all sorts of niches for a myriad of clients. As a result, millions of people worldwide have read and benefited from his content.
