Why you should have a Michigan State ID for Children
The Department of State provides Michigan State ID, which serves as a legal identification card for children. It is good to have a state id for all your children. If anything happens, you have a legal document and picture to show the police. The enhanced Michigan state ID for children card is a federally approved document that allows your child to re-enter the U.S. when traveling by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean without showing other identity or passports at the border. The enhanced ID is optional because federal law doesn’t require an enhanced ID, passport, or passport card for children at border crossings until age 16. The standard or enhanced Michigan state ID is available for any child or infant at the parent or guardian’s request.
How to apply for a standard Michigan State ID Card for your child:
- Provide proof of the child’s valid Social Security number. Social Security information will be verified.
- Provide proof of identity, U.S. citizenship or legal presence, and residency for the child. (Residency can be confirmed through documents in the parent’s name if other forms of proof establish the family relationship.)
- Sign the application on behalf of an infant or child who cannot do so.
- Have the child’s photograph taken.
- Pay the standard state ID card fee if not exempt.
Residents under age 21 will have “Under 21” printed above their photo.
The requirements for an Enhanced Michigan State ID Child Card:
Documents needed for Michigan State ID
- The child must be a U.S. citizen and a Michigan resident
- The child must have a valid (for example, the child’s Social Security card). Social Security information will be verified.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (for example, a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate with a raised seal must be issued by a governmental unit in the U.S. or U.S. territory)
- Identity (a current Michigan photo ID card or school ID. If the child does not have an acceptable photo ID, a parent or guardian must present their driver’s license or ID and sign for their child.)
- Residency (a current Michigan photo ID card) You can confirm residency through documents in the parent’s name if you establish the family relationship by other forms of proof.
Please refer to the Documents Required for an Enhanced License or ID form for a complete list of acceptable documentation. - Parents or legal guardians must sign the application on behalf of an infant or child.
- Have the child’s photograph taken
- Pay the enhanced Michigan state ID card fee
Enhanced Michigan state ID cards issued to applicants under age 21 will have “Under 21” below their photo. All documentation is subject to the Department of State’s approval for an enhanced State ID. A second visit may be necessary if you don’t get same-day document approval. Your child’s enhanced Michigan state ID card will be valid for four years.
Finally, click the link to view our article on other services that Michigan Secretary of State Express Services provides online services.
