When you're moving to South Carolina or simply need to update your identification, obtaining a South Carolina ID card is an important step. This document serves as proof of your identity, address, and legal residency status in the state. Here, we'll walk you through the five essential documents you'll need to apply for your ID card, along with a detailed guide on how to use them.
1. Proof of Identity
Your identity must be proven through documents that are difficult to falsify. Here are the primary documents accepted for establishing identity:
- Birth Certificate: The original or certified copy must be issued by the vital records office of your state of birth.
- U.S. Passport: A valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card.
- Social Security Card: If your Social Security card does not show your current name, provide legal proof of name change.
💡 Note: Ensure your documents are in good condition and not faded or damaged, as this might cause delays in processing your application.
2. Proof of Social Security Number
The second requirement is to prove your Social Security number. You can present any of the following:
- Social Security Card
- Pay stubs with your name and full Social Security number
- Official correspondence from the Social Security Administration
💡 Note: Your full Social Security number must be visible on the document you provide.
3. Proof of South Carolina Residency
To establish residency, you need to show two documents from different categories that indicate your physical address in South Carolina. Here's what you can use:
- Utility bills (not older than 60 days)
- South Carolina vehicle registration or title
- Bank statement or bank passbook
- Lease or rental agreement
- Mortgage statement
- Official state or federal documents (e.g., tax statements or property tax notices)
These documents should show your name and current address to confirm your residency.
4. Proof of Legal Presence (For Non-U.S. Citizens)
If you're not a U.S. citizen, you'll need to provide evidence of your legal presence in the U.S. Documents include:
- A valid visa
- I-551 Permanent Resident Card
- I-797 Notice of Action for Temporary Protected Status
- Valid I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
Your status must permit you to remain in the U.S. and establish residency in South Carolina.
💡 Note: Immigration documents must be current; expired documents will not be accepted.
5. Proof of Name Change (if applicable)
If there has been a change in your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal action, you need to present documents to reflect this:
- Marriage Certificate
- Divorce Decree
- Court Ordered Name Change Document
How to Apply for Your South Carolina ID Card
With your documents in hand, here's how you apply:
- Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at your nearest DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) office. This can save you time waiting in line.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Application for ID Card or Driver’s License (Form 447-NC).
- Visit the DMV: Bring all your documents along with the completed application form. Arrive on time to your appointment.
- Pay the Fee: The fee for an ID card in South Carolina is $10 for a five-year ID or $20 for a ten-year ID.
- Have Your Photo Taken: A digital photo will be taken at the DMV office for your ID card.
- Receipt of Temporary ID: You'll receive a temporary ID until your permanent card arrives by mail.
💡 Note: If your documents are in languages other than English or Spanish, have them translated by a certified translator.
By organizing your documents and understanding the requirements, applying for a South Carolina ID card becomes a straightforward process. Remember, these documents not only prove your identity but also serve as your official confirmation of being a resident in South Carolina. Keep all your documents in good order, and check for any updates on the state's DMV website before your visit to ensure there have been no changes to the requirements. This will help avoid any last-minute surprises or delays.
What if I don’t have a birth certificate?
+
If you were born in the U.S. and don’t have a birth certificate, you can request a certified copy from the vital records office of the state where you were born. For those born abroad, other documents like a Consular Report of Birth Abroad might be acceptable.
Can I use a driver’s license from another state?
+
Yes, a driver’s license from another state is acceptable as proof of identity, but it cannot be used to prove residency in South Carolina.
How long does it take to receive a South Carolina ID card after application?
+
You should expect to receive your permanent ID card in the mail within 7-10 business days after your application.
