PennDOT began issuing free Department of State photo ID cards this month that registered voters can use to vote at the polls.

Only registered voters who do not have another photo ID acceptable for voting are eligible for the Department of State photo ID card which can be obtained at a local PennDOT Driver’s License Center.

All registered voters wishing to obtain the Department of State photo ID card for voting purposes must first apply for a free PennDOT photo ID card.

When a PennDOT customer service representative determines that a registered voter does not have the necessary documentation to receive the free PennDOT photo ID, the customer service representative will begin the process of issuing a free Department of State photo ID for voting.

Please note: examples of necessary documents for the free PennDOT photo ID include a certified copy of a birth certificate or Social Security card.

To receive the Department of State photo ID card, a registered voter must complete an oath or affirmation form affirming they have no other acceptable identification and a Request for Initial Issuance of Pennsylvania Department of State ID for Voting Purposes form.

Other requested information will include a name, address, Social Security number, proof of residence, county and previous name and/or address if changed within the past 12 months.

Voters who have registered within the past 30 days will be able to indicate that by marking a box on the form.

After confirming the voter’s identity and voter registration with the Departmemt of State, the registered voter will be issued a free Department of State photo ID card.

PennDOT Driver’s License Center locations can be found on the web at www.dot.state.pa.us or by phone through PennDOT’s customer call center at 1-800-932-4600.