Many homeless people lack official identification. Without it, it can be very difficult to apply for jobs, rent housing, receive social benefits, open bank accounts, or access medical care. Therefore, many government agencies and nonprofit organizations offer free or low-cost identification programs for homeless individuals.
Why an ID Is Important
An identification card is often required to access basic services. For a person experiencing homelessness, not having identification can present many obstacles. Valid identification may be necessary to:
- Apply for employment
- Access shelters or housing programs
- Receive government benefits
- Get medical care or prescriptions
- Open a bank account
- Enroll in assistance programs
Because of these challenges, many communities have implemented programs to help people experiencing homelessness obtain free identification.
How to get a Certification of Homelessness
Most states require a signed form or letter from a recognized agency to waive the fee for identification. To obtain a Certification of Homelessness (often called a “homelessness verification letter”), you must contact an authorized social service provider who can verify your living situation. This certificate is primarily provided by:
- Homeless Shelters: Directors or designated personnel at any shelter.
- Social Service Agencies: Public or private nonprofit organizations that receive funding to serve people experiencing homelessness.
- Healthcare Centers: Medical facilities or social workers at these facilities. Education Liaisons: School counselors, social workers, or McKinney-Vento liaisons for homeless youth.
- Financial Aid Administrators: For students at institutions of higher education.
Steps to Get Certification
Find a Local Provider: Visit a local shelter or community support center. If you are in Lexington, the Catholic Action Center or other city-affiliated shelters may be able to help. In Louisville, contact the Louisville Coalition for the Homeless.
Request a Verification Letter: Ask a case manager or director for a “Certificate of Homelessness” on their agency’s official letterhead.
Be sure to meet the requirements on the form:
For state identification: The letter must state that you do not have a fixed, regular, or adequate residence for overnight stays.
For birth certificates: Use the VS-41 Homelessness Affidavit, provided by the Kentucky Cabinet of Health and Family Services.
Programs That Offer Free IDs for Homeless Individuals
State ID Fee Waiver Programs
Many U.S. states allow homeless individuals to receive a free state ID card through their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Some states waive the ID fee if the person can prove they are homeless or receiving assistance.
Typically, a shelter, social worker, or nonprofit organization can help provide the necessary documents.
Assistance Programs for Homeless Individuals
Many cities have outreach teams that assist people experiencing homelessness. These programs sometimes offer:
- Transportation to ID offices
- Assistance with completing applications
- Payment of document fees
- Mailing addresses for receiving ID cards
Some programs also host ID clinics, where staff help multiple people apply for ID in one location.
Places You Can Visit to Get Free IDs
Homeless ID Project (USA): Helps people replace or obtain IDs by covering the fees and guiding them through the paperwork.
National Youth Network: Offers a state-by-state guide for homeless youth to obtain IDs.
Salvation Army: Local branches often help with the costs and paperwork for obtaining a legal ID.
Catholic Charities: Offers case management and assistance in obtaining an ID.
Coalition for the Homeless: Manages programs that help homeless people replace or obtain IDs and other important documents.
These organizations can also help people gather documents such as birth certificates or Social Security cards, which are often required to apply for an ID.
Free IDs for the Homeless by States
| State/District | Program Details |
|---|---|
| Arizona | The Homeless ID Project provides 100% free IDs and birth certificates. |
| California | Use form DL 937 from a social service provider for a no-fee ID card. |
| District of Columbia | Original non-driver IDs are free for homeless residents with an approved certification. |
| Illinois | Qualifying individuals can submit a Homeless Status Certification for a no-fee ID. |
| Pennsylvania | PennDOT provides a free initial photo ID or renewal for homeless residents. |
| Washington | Eligible for a no-cost ID (one per lifetime) or a $5 reduced-fee ID via DSHS. |
Documents Typically Needed to Get a Free ID
Even if the ID is free, some documents may still be required. These may include:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card
- Proof of identity (if available)
- Verification from a homeless shelter or social worker
If you don’t have these documents, many organizations can help replace them.
How to apply for a free ID
Here are simple steps people experiencing homelessness can take:
- Visit a local shelter or community center.
- Ask about free ID programs in your area.
- Get help gathering the necessary documents.
- Ask for a fee waiver if available.
- Apply for a state ID at the DMV or an ID office.
- Social workers often guide people through the entire process.
