Required Documentation
The documentation requirements for a photo exempt identification card are the same as a regular identification card requirements, except:
- The applicant may provide IRS form 4029 as proof of exemption from a Social Security number (SSN) and benefits. IRS form 4029 must be approved, signed and dated by an authorized member of the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- If IRS form 4029 is provided, the applicant must also provide a documented statement that indicates he/she has a sincerely held religious belief against the issuance of a SSN.
- If the applicant has already been issued an SSN, IRS Form 4029 is not required, but may still be submitted with, or without, a documented statement indicating his/her sincerely held religious belief against the issuance of a SSN.
- The applicant must provide a documented statement from a member of the applicant’s clergy that indicates the congregation has a prohibition against the taking of a portrait photograph.
- The applicant must also have a documented statement that affirms he/she has a sincerely held religious belief against the taking of a portrait photograph.
*Note the applicants may provide State Form 55920 in lieu of requirements #2, #3 and #4 above.
Other FAQs Regarding Photo Exempt ID Cards
Q: Can I hold a photo exempt identification card at the same time as I also hold a learner’s permit, driver’s license or old identification card (with, or without, a photo)?
A: No, as with all other credential transactions, Indiana law requires applicants to surrender their previous credential.
Q: Besides the absence of a photograph, what else is different with a photo exempt identification card?
A: There are a number of differences with a photo exempt identification card, including:
- A photo exempt identification card cannot be used for any federal identification purposes.
- A photo exempt identification card cannot be amended, replaced, or renewed online through myBMV.com.
- An applicant can neither add an MDC – Class B endorsement to a photo exempt identification card, nor can an applicant use a photo exempt identification card as authority to operate a motor vehicle.
- Photo exempt identification cards cannot be used for voting.
Q: Will I still be required to take a photograph for a photo exempt identification card?
A: Yes, Indiana law requires all applicants for photo exempt identification cards to take a digital photo.
Q: Will the photograph display on my identification card?
A: No, it will be run through the facial recognition process to prevent fraud, but it will not display on the identification card.
Q: What is the validity period of a photo exempt identification card?
A: A photo exempt identification card is valid for 6 years. The credential holder may apply for a renewal up to 24 months prior to the expiration date listed on the identification card.
Q: If I have temporary lawful status in the United States can I obtain a photo exempt identification card?
A: No, a photo exempt identification card may only be issued to United States Citizens and Nationals.
Q: What is the fee for a photo exempt identification card?
A: The fee for an initial, renewal, amended, or replacement photo exempt identification card is $9.00.
Q: Can the fee for a photo exempt identification card be waived if the applicant is of voting age?
A: No, the fee cannot be waived if the applicant is of voting age. A photo exempt identification card is not valid for voting purposes.
Q: How does the renewal process work once I have a photo exempt identification card?
A: Once you have a photo exempt identification card, you may renew it up to 24 months prior to the expiration date listed on the credential.
Q: If I lose my photo exempt identification card, can I obtain a replacement?
A: Yes, you may obtain a replacement photo exempt identification card, but you must visit your local license branch to process the transaction.