Last Updated on May 11, 2022 by Fair Punishment Team

Growing up can come with its ups and downs, especially when it comes to getting your first government-issued photo ID. Not only can photo IDs help get you into age-restricted areas but they can also open many doors and opportunities. Of course, one of the most common forms of identification is a driver’s license, which can be picked up from your local DMV.

However, this does not mean that the DMV does not come with its setbacks, as the establishment is notorious for its long queues and slow services.So if you want to know how you can obtain a photo ID without going to the DMV, then you have come to the right place.

In the following article, we have gathered some important information concerning photo IDs and where you can get them besides the DMV. We will also explore the other options available to you, as well as the other forms of identification that can be used instead of a driver’s license. So if you are not interested in driving but need a photo ID, this article has everything you need to get started…

Where Can I Get A Photo ID Besides The DMV?

While you can now receive photo IDs from libraries, banks and employers, this does not mean that these forms of identification will be accepted, which means they can’t be used to board a plane or purchase alcohol. Because of this, there is only one option open to you and that’s obtaining a driver’s license from the government.

These days, a driver’s license can be easily obtained from your local branch of the DMV, although the establishment itself does come with some setbacks. Not only is the DMV known for its long queues and slow service, but it can also take a few weeks for your new photo ID to be processed.

So where else can you get a photo ID besides the DMV? Well, there are now numerous states that offer express service at certain DMV locations, which can cut down wait time and make it easier to receive your license. For example, the state of New Mexico currently boasts 11 full-service express locations.

However, this does not mean that express service is the only option, as you can also apply for a new photo ID via the DMV website. While this option can make the process much easier, it is only available in certain states, which means you will need to contact your local DMV to learn more about the options in your area.

In some cases, you may also be eligible to receive your photo ID via mail renewal, although the requirements for this option can vary depending on state law. For example, in Connecticut, you can only renew your ID if you are an active member of the military or unable to visit the DMV due to medical reasons.

What Other Forms Of Photo ID Are There?

Besides a driver’s license, you can also use an up-to-date passport to board a plane and confirm your age. In most cases, a valid US passport can be obtained from your local post office, where you can even take your passport photo on site. However, you may also need to provide your own photo depending on the post office’s policy.

When it comes to obtaining your driver’s license, you will be given the option of two different processes, with each one taking a different amount of time to process your ID. For example, the routine process can take around six to eight weeks to process your passport, while the expedited process will usually take about two to three weeks.

However, this does not mean that applying for a passport is an easy process, as you will need to provide legal documentation to confirm your identity. If you are a first-time applicant, then you will need to provide two existing forms of ID, including a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship.

Of course, a valid driver’s license is the easiest way to fulfill the second requirement, although there are other forms of ID that you can use.

Can You Get A Photo ID If You Don’t Drive?

The short and simpler answer to this question is yes, you can get a photo ID if you don’t drive. In fact, the DMV even issues a non-driver ID as the main alternative to a driver’s license. In most cases, this form of identification can be obtained from your local DMV and is valid for a duration of six years.

However, if you are unable to visit the DMV and obtain your non-driver ID, then you can send the application via the mail. Mail applications are only available to applicants who are out of state, incarcerated or suffering from medical conditions. When applying for your non-driver ID, you will need to have a previous photo on file with the DMV and the necessary paperwork which can be accessed online.

If you are applying via the mail due to a medical condition, then you will also need to fill out the CS-1 form, which is a request form to receive the ID through the post due to a medical condition. This form can be easily obtained online and must be signed by a medical professional to confirm your ailment.

What Other Option Are There?

While members of the public can obtain photo IDs from other government branches, this does not mean that they will meet ID requirements, which makes them useless when purchasing alcohol or confirming your age. However, some of these photo IDs can be used for other purposes, such as banking and transactions.

Examples of these include library cards or photo IDs supplied to employees and college students. However, there are two other forms of ID that can also be used to confirm your identity if not allow you into restricted areas.
CT Transit Card

These photo ID cards are issued to senior citizens or people with disabilities, which allows them to board public transportation for a reduced fare. To obtain such a card, individuals with disabilities must submit a certified application to the government, while senior citizens must verify their age with the notary public. In both cases, applicants will also need to provide a photo, with the card being $5 to purchase and $10 to replace.

Municipal IDs

Apart from the other forms of identification listed above, it is also possible to obtain a photo ID from the municipal government where you reside. Similar to the previous card, applicants for this ID must provide proof of their identity and local residency, with the identification itself costing $11 for adults and $6 for children and teenagers. Notable locations that provide this service include San Francisco, Washington DC and New Haven.

And there we have it, those are the different places where you can get a photo ID besides the DMV. We hope that you found this article helpful and that you will refer to it the next time you need to renew your photo ID.