The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) issues driver licenses, endorsements, and identicards that are valid for up to six years. An identicard is a Washington identification card issued by DOL.
DOL must issue an identicard, containing a picture, to any applicant, provided the applicant:
An identicard is distinctly designed so it is not confused with an official driver license, and it generally expires on the eighth anniversary of the applicant's birth date after issuance. An applicant may renew an identicard by personally appearing at a DOL office, by mail, or by electronic commerce.
An at-cost identicard, based on the production costs rather than the usual $72 fee for an eight year identicard, can be provided if the applicant is:
Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the Department of Commerce, working in conjunction with DOL, must create and implement an identicard program to provide homeless individuals within Washington State a state-issued identicard. Under the program, a homeless individual is eligible for a one-time, no-fee original or renewal identicard.
To be eligible for the no- fee identicard, the individual must:
PRO: By allowing homeless individuals to obtain an identification card, this bill is intended to remove barriers for homeless individuals and gain access to employment, education, housing, medical treatment, and other essential services. This bill represents collaborative work of many. Other states have implemented no cost identicard programs with much success. Without an identicard, it is easy for a homeless person to feel invisible. This is anticipated to help over 15,000 people per year. This bill will help with identity verification so homeless individuals can access essential financial services as well as other important programs.