Act 131 of 2020, which Governor Tom Wolf recently signed into law, makes it possible for Pennsylvanians experiencing homelessness to be issued a free initial photo ID or renewal. Individuals will be required to apply in person at a PennDOT Driver License Center and must meet identification and other requirements. Additional information can be found on the Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov. This section of the law is effective January 25, 2021.
The pertinent section of the Act reads:
Title 75 § 1901. Exemption of persons, entities and vehicles from fees.
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(b.1) Identification card fees.–No fee shall be charged for an initial or renewal identification card, including for a photograph required for an initial or renewal identification card, to an individual who affirms in writing that the individual is:
- homeless, as defined on the effective date of this subsection in section 103 of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (Public Law 100-77, 42 U.S.C. § 11302);
- a resident of this Commonwealth; and
- aware of the prohibitions on unsworn falsification to authorities set forth in 18 Pa.C.S. § 4904 (relating to unsworn falsification to authorities).