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The IDPVD Program – Frequently Asked Questions
Municipal IDs are identification cards issued by, or with the approval of, local governments. They feature the photo of the cardholder, along with other basic identifying information such as address and date of birth. The benefits tied to a municipal ID card vary depending on the locality, but typically all government agencies and officials, including police, will accept the card as proof of identity.
Many major cities throughout the country have a municipal ID program, such as New Haven, San Francisco, New York City, Detroit, Chicago, Richmond and Milwaukee to name a few.
IDPVD is a photo identification card for Providence residents issued by the City of Providence. In addition to instilling community pride and serving as proof of identity and residence to engage with City departments, the card will provide access to special services, benefits and discounts offered by partnering businesses and organizations, such as restaurants, shops, museums, and entertainment venues.
IDPVD affirms that all residents, regardless of where they come from, are a part of the Providence community. Although available to all residents, IDPVD is particularly valuable for community members who may have difficulty obtaining and retaining other government-issued identification, such as undocumented immigrants, LGBTQ persons, those experiencing homelessness, youth and elders, and formerly incarcerated individuals.
The IDPVD program was launched in June of 2018 and is administered by the City’s Vital Records Office.
The IDPVD card is available to all Providence residents – ages 14 and older—who meet identity and residency requirements as outlined in the IDPVD Policies and Procedures document.
No. IDPVD does not replace driver’s licenses and do not prove citizenship, voting rights, or any other legal privilege or status beyond City residency and identity of the cardholder.
Yes. Criminal records are not taken into consideration when issuing IDPVD cards.
Those interested can apply for IDPVD in the Vital Records Office in Providence City Hall located on the first floor, Office 104. The City hopes to launch additional enrollment opportunities that are more easily accessible by community members.
IDPVD will cost $5 for youth (ages 14-17), residents 65+ and applicants who demonstrate financial hardship. IDPVD will cost $15 for adult residents (ages 18-64). Applicants can make payment with credit card, money order or check.
To demonstrate financial hardship, applicants must show proof of income status through sample documents such as proof of enrollment in Means-Tested Benefits (SNAP, Section 8 Housing, Medicaid, etc).
IDPVD expires three years after the date of issuance.
The IDPVD Program offers many benefits and discounts to local restaurants, shops, museums and more. Take a look at our benefits page to learn more,
No. All Providence residents, regardless of immigration status, are eligible to receive the IDPVD card. The City will not ask about your immigration status.
The Vital Records Department has staff members who speak English and Spanish. Applicants who speak a different language are encouraged to call ahead so the appropriate translation accommodations can be made.
Protecting our residents is our number one priority. Drawing upon the best practices of other cities that have implemented municipal ID programs, Providence will establish a program that views, but does not collect, copies of documents provided by an applicant as proof of identity or residency.
IDPVD will be a secure card that meets American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) security standards and the City of Providence will take every precaution it can to protect each applicant’s data to the maximum extent permitted by law.
IDPVD can help transgender Providence residents over the age of 14, who often face obstacles obtaining identification that affirms their gender identity, by allowing people to self-designate their gender without medical documentation. This gives residents an opportunity to have a form of identification that more accurately aligns with how they identify.
IDPVD can be issued with four options: male, female, non-binary (NB) or not-available (NA) for those who wish not to disclose. Having the City provide gender-affirming documentation to our community increases transgender people’s safety and ability to access employment, housing, and benefits without harassment or violence.
Partnering with IDPVD is an exciting and unique way to advertise and grow your business. As a partner, you will be featured on the City’s official website and promotional materials that will be distributed to all applicants. Similar municipal ID programs around the country have allowed partners to expand their outreach and attract new customers. To become a partner and promote your business, please email or call the Mayor’s Center for City Services (MCCS) at Providence City Hall by dialing 3-1-1.