This bill would require the Social Security Administration to provide free identification (ID) cards to individuals in the United States who are at least 14 years old. The IDs would include a photo and other important information, and would be valid for 10 years. The U.S. Postal Service would also develop a process to help people apply for and receive these IDs.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill would require the Social Security Administration to provide free identification (ID) cards to individuals in the United States who are at least 14 years old. The IDs would include a photo and other important information, and would be valid for 10 years. The U.S. Postal Service would also develop a process to help people apply for and receive these IDs.
Last updated: 12/30/2025
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 certain individuals in the United States an identification (ID) for the purpose of allowing such individuals to satisfy ID requirements.</p><p>Such ID must include a photograph and specified information, as well as security features. It shall be valid for a 10-year period. To receive an ID, an individual must be at least 14 years of age.</p><p>The SSA must develop and implement a campaign to educate the public with respect to the ID, including how an individual can receive and use it.</p><p>The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) must develop and implement a process that enables individuals to apply for the ID through the USPS, including a process for a first-time ID and renewal, modeled after the process for passport applications.</p><p>The bill establishes a Task Force on Federal Identification Cards for the purpose of determining the requirements to produce and make available the ID.</p><p>The task force shall (1) issue a report on the requirements, including a requirement that the SSA and the USPS establish procedures to prevent the unauthorized disclosure of any information obtained with respect to individuals who seek assistance in obtaining the ID; and (2) develop and publish recommendations for voluntary best practices for nonprofit organizations and entities that provide services to vulnerable populations with respect to how such organizations and entities can assist individuals to obtain the ID.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Requires the Social Security Administration to provide free ID cards to U.S. residents 14 and older
ID cards would include a photo and other key information, and would be valid for 10 years
Directs the U.S. Postal Service to create a process for people to apply for and receive the ID cards
Establishes a Task Force to determine the requirements for producing and distributing the ID cards
Requires the Task Force to develop recommendations for how organizations can assist people in obtaining the ID cards
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
If this bill becomes law, it would make it easier for millions of Americans to obtain a government-issued ID, which is often required for things like voting, opening a bank account, and accessing certain social services. This could particularly benefit low-income individuals, the elderly, and others who may face barriers to getting an ID. The IDs would be free and widely available through the Postal Service, which could improve access and participation in civic life.
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
4852, 119th Congress (2025). "Wildfire Emergency Preparedness Act of 2025". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-4852
