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HomeVehicle CodeDiv. 6Ch. 1Art. 5§ 13000 Id Card Issuance Rules

§ 13000 Id Card Issuance Rules

Vehicle Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Related Statutes·References
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§ 13000 Id Card Issuance Rules

The department can give out ID cards, but not a Real ID card to anyone who already has a Real ID driver’s license, and it can cancel a card to follow that rule. People 62 or older can get a special “Senior Citizen” ID, and everyone must sign the application, prove who they are, and have a thumb or finger print on file.

Key Takeaways

  • •The department can issue ID cards, but not a Real ID card to anyone who already holds a Real ID driver’s license.
  • •If needed, the department can cancel an ID card to follow the Real ID rule.
  • •People 62 years or older can get an ID that says “Senior Citizen.”
  • •All applicants must sign the form under penalty of perjury and provide real proof of their age and identity.
  • •A clear thumb or finger print must be on file before the ID is given out.
  • •Seniors (or other qualified people) can apply under either the regular or senior rules, but not both at the same time.

Example

Maria is 68 years old and already has a Real ID driver’s license. She wants a state‑issued ID card with her senior label.

Because Maria already has a Real ID driver’s license, the department cannot give her a Real ID identification card. It can issue her a regular senior ID with the “Senior Citizen” note, as long as she signs the form, shows proof of age, and has a thumbprint on file.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 13000 Id Card Issuance Rules

(a)(1)The department may issue an identification card to any person attesting to the true full name, correct age, and other identifying data as certified by the applicant for the identification card. (2)The department may not issue a Real ID identification card to a person who holds a Real ID driver’s license. (3)The department may cancel an identification card in order to enable compliance with paragraph (2). (b)Any person 62 years of age or older may apply for, and the department upon receipt of a proper application therefor shall issue, an identification card bearing the notation “Senior Citizen.” (c)Every application for an identification card shall be signed and verified by the applicant under penalty of perjury and shall be supported by bona fide documentary evidence of the age and identity of the applicant as the department may require. (d)Prior to the issuance of an identification card, the department shall confirm that a legible print of the thumb or finger of the applicant is on file with the department. (e)Any person 62 years of age or older, and any other qualified person, may apply for, or possess, an identification card under the provisions of either subdivision (a) or (b), but not under both of those provisions.

Last verified: February 26, 2026

Related Statutes

  • § 13000.1 Id Card Fraud Penalties
  • § 13001 Daca Identification Card Eligibility
  • § 13001.5 Undocumented Immigrant Ids
  • § 13002 Id Card Expiration Rules
  • § 13002.1 Id Card Renewal Rules

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Vehicle Code. Section 13000.
View Official Source