Do you need a photo ID but you have no time or are too lazy to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles or DMV? If the answer to the question is yes, there is nothing to worry as there are some other alternatives. Then, what are those places where you can get a photo ID besides the DMV?
As stated before, there are a few places where you can get a photo ID without having to endure the typical long lines and bureaucratic runaround at the DMV. Some of these places include:
1. Post Office
One of the ways that you can do in order to get a photo ID without having to go to the DMV is going to your local United States Postal Services or post office. The kind of ID that you will get at this place is a passport card. Aside from an ID, this one also has some other benefits, such as:
- You will be able to get a passport card without having to know how to drive.
- In addition to adults, a passport card is also available for minors.
- The passport card can be used as a limited passport that makes it possible for you to travel to a few countries or regions such as Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea without further form of identification.
- The passport is a valid form of identification for the country that you live in.
There are several things that you have to prepare to get a passport card, including proof of citizenship, a U.S. birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, passport photo, current identification card, and photo of your current identity card. Once the process is done, the state departments will return your certified copies of your documents. However, they will keep photocopies.
2. College or University ID Cards
For those who attend a university or college, you will be able to get a student ID. Student identification cards are usually required by many universities and colleges in order to do a few things such as entering certain buildings, purchasing books from the university bookstore, for test-taking purposes and so on.
With a student ID, you will be able to get tons of benefits, such as discounts on electronics, discounts at restaurants, discounts at bookstores, discounts on software, and many more. Not only that, you will also be able to save money on products and services.
3. Military
If you want to get a military ID, you should make sure that you are registered in the Defense enrollment Eligibility Reporting System or DEERS. Usually, the beginning of entry into DEERS occurs at basic Training or after the first assignment. Those who are eligible will have to fill out an official form and provide personal information to be able to get their first ID card.
4. Several Private Businesses, such as Department Stores and Banks
In addition to these places, it is also possible for you to get a photo ID besides the DMV by going to some private businesses that offer credit or debit cards. These private businesses include department stores and banks. Identity photo cards are best as they minimize the risk of fraud. Before visiting one of these private businesses, make sure to prepare a budget as these services don’t come free, just as many businesses and banks also charge a fee.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
