This bill directs the Social Security Administration to produce free identification cards for individuals over age 14 that can satisfy ID requirements typically met by a driver license or state ID. Applications can be processed through post offices, and a task force will establish production and security requirements.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill directs the Social Security Administration to produce free identification cards for individuals over age 14 that can satisfy ID requirements typically met by a driver license or state ID. Applications can be processed through post offices, and a task force will establish production and security requirements.
Last updated: 1/5/2026
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><strong>IDs for an Inclusive Democracy Act</strong></p><p>This bill directs the Social Security Administration (SSA) to produce and make available at no cost to individuals over the age of 14 a means of identification (ID) sufficient to satisfy certain identification requirements (i.e., requirements otherwise satisfied by a driver's license or state ID).</p><p>The ID must include a photograph, specified information, and certain security features, and must generally be valid for 10 years.</p><p>SSA must develop and implement a campaign to educate the public about the ID, including how an individual can obtain and use one.</p><p>The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) must develop and implement a process that enables individuals to apply for and renew an ID through USPS, modeled after the process for passport applications.</p><p>The bill also establishes a task force to set forth requirements for the production and distribution of the new IDs. The task force must (1) issue a report outlining such requirements, including procedures to prevent the unauthorized disclosure of any information obtained from applicants seeking assistance with the ID process; and (2) develop and publish voluntary best practices for nonprofit organizations and entities that serve vulnerable populations on assisting individuals with the application process.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Creates free federal ID cards through Social Security Administration
Available to individuals over 14 years old
Can satisfy requirements typically met by driver licenses
Enables applications through U.S. Postal Service locations
Valid for 10 years with security features and photographs
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
Individuals who lack driver licenses or state IDs due to cost, disability, or other barriers would have access to free government-issued identification. This could help address voter ID requirements and other situations where identification is needed but obtaining it has been difficult.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Social Welfare
Related Subjects
Advisory bodies
Government information and archives
Licensing and registrations
Postal service
Right of privacy
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
1457, 119th Congress (2025). "IDs for an Inclusive Democracy Act". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-1457
