Is IDNYC Useful for NYC Drivers?

IDNYC is a free photo ID from New York City for anyone 10 or older who lives in the city, whatever their immigration status. For drivers it is useful off the road: opening an account at some banks, applying for benefits, using the library, and proving who you are to the NYPD. It is not a driver license. It does not replace your DMV chauffeur's license or your Social Security number, so it can't help you get or keep a TLC license.

Who can get it

ACCESS NYC says "anyone living in NYC who is 10 or older can apply, regardless of immigration status, criminal record, or homelessness." The card is free. The IDNYC site adds:

• the City won't ask your immigration status to give you the card, and protects applicant information under Local Law 35 of 2014 "to the maximum extent allowable" by federal and state law;
• applications are available in 35 languages, with help in your language at enrollment centers;
• cards are valid 5 years for people 16 and older (2 years under 16); renew from 60 days before expiry up to 6 months after.

The documents points system

You apply in person and show proof of identity and New York City residency. IDNYC's Document Calculator scores your papers: you need 3 points of identity and 1 point of residency. It lists identity groups such as U.S. or foreign passports, U.S. or foreign driver licenses, U.S. visas or permits and foreign ID documents, and residency groups such as bills, letters and property papers. Use the calculator before your appointment; it tells you when you "have the correct documents to apply." Your address will not appear on the card.

What drivers can use it for

For benefits drivers may qualify for, see public benefits for TLC drivers, NYC Care for drivers and the Black Car Fund benefits for FHV drivers.

What it is not

• Not a driver license. To drive in New York you need a DMV license; to drive for hire in NYC you need a chauffeur's license (NY Class A, B, C or E) and a TLC license. TLC rule 80-04(b)–(c) also requires a valid Social Security number.
• Not accepted at the TLC exam. PSI's bulletin says it checks your state-issued driver's license at check-in.
• Not a federal ID. IDNYC is a city card.
• Not an immigration document. It doesn't change or prove your immigration status.

If your question is about the DMV and immigration enforcement, read does the DMV share data with immigration. The immigrant drivers guide covers SSN, ITIN and Green Light licenses for TLC.

What to do next

Book an appointment through the IDNYC site or 311, or walk in at the enrollment centers that accept walk-ins on certain days; the city's pages list them. Bring the documents the calculator approves.