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PHL City ID
Verified · October 23, 2026 Deadline soon — check dates
The PHL City ID is a secure photo identification card for anyone living in Philadelphia, age 13 and older. It displays the cardholder’s name, address, date of birth, and self-identified gender. Residents can use it as identification within Philadelphia, to sign in to schools and City buildings, to access recreation centers, and to interact with a law enforcement official. Cardholders can also get a new Free Library card or link an existing one so the PHL City ID functions as a library card. The card does not authorize anyone to drive, travel, or enter federal buildings.
- Organization
- City of Philadelphia
- Address
- 1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Concourse level
- Hours
- Appointments Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., on the concourse level of the Municipal Services Building; walk-ins accepted first-come, first-served until capacity is reached
- Who qualifies
- Must live in Philadelphia, be age 13 or older, and be able to prove your identity and address
- Documents needed
- Original documents totaling four points proving identity and residency. Proof of identity must include one document with a photo and one with a date of birth (such as a U.S. or foreign passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or driver's license). Proof of residency can include a utility bill, bank statement, current lease, vehicle registration, pay stub, or letter from a hospital, health clinic, shelter, or social service agency. Copies are not accepted.
- How to apply
- Schedule an appointment or walk in at the Municipal Services Building concourse level. Staff prescreen your documents, verify your identity and address, collect payment, and take your signature and photo. You should receive your PHL City ID within 30 minutes of beginning prescreening.
- Languages
- Information about PHL City ID is available in multiple languages
- Cost
- $5 for ages 13-17; $10 for ages 18-64; free for everyone 65 and older. Pay by cash (exact change required) or money order payable to City of Philadelphia.
- Last verified
- October 23, 2026
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