I have an elderly parent moving to live with me in Kansas. He will need a photo ID. Will he be able to get one at the Annex? What will he need and how long will it take for him to apply and receive a REAL ID for air travel and general activities which require a photo ID?

Based on the information available, here’s what I can tell you about obtaining a photo ID in Kansas, particularly for an elderly parent:

• Kansas Division of Vehicles (DMV):
  • The Kansas DMV is the primary agency responsible for issuing driver’s licenses and non-driver identification cards. Your parent will need to contact the DMV or visit a relevant location to obtain a photo ID.
  • It is important to gather the correct documentation before going to the DMV. The Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles website provides information on the required documentation.  
• Documentation:
  • Your parent will need to provide proof of identity, proof of Kansas residency, and proof of their Social Security number.
  • It is important to check the Kansas department of revenue website for the most up to date list of acceptable documents.
• Age 65 and Older:
  • It is important to note that in Kansas, voters age 65 or older may use an expired photo ID for voting purposes.  
  • Also, the Kansas DMV may waive the furnishing of one of the required documents for individuals 65 and older.  
• “Annex” locations:
  • To be certain if a specific “Annex” location is a full service DMV location, it would be best to look up that specific location, or contact the Kansas DMV directly.

Therefore, your parent will most likely be able to obtain a non drivers ID at a Kansas DMV location, as long as they provide the required documentation.

It’s important to help your parent get a REAL ID well in advance of the May 7, 2025, deadline. Here’s a breakdown of what they’ll need and what to expect in Kansas:

Required Documentation:

To obtain a REAL ID in Kansas, your parent will generally need to provide the following:

• Proof of Identity:
  • A certified U.S. birth certificate or an unexpired U.S. passport.
• Proof of Social Security Number:
  • A Social Security card (must be the original, not laminated).  
• Proof of Kansas Residency:
  • Two documents proving their current Kansas address (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements).  
• Proof of Name Change (if applicable):
  • If their current name differs from the name on their birth certificate, they’ll need documents like a marriage certificate or court order.  

Key Points:

• Original Documents: Kansas requires original or certified copies of these documents. Photocopies are not accepted.  
• Kansas DMV Resources: The Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles website is the best source for the most up-to-date and detailed information.
• Timeframe:
  • The time it takes to obtain a REAL ID can vary. It depends on factors like:
    • How prepared your parent is with the required documents.
    • The volume of people at the DMV location.
    • The processing time of the DMV.
  • It is always best to allow ample time, and to not wait until the last minute.
• May 7, 2025, Deadline: Remember that starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID (or another acceptable form of federal identification, like a passport) will be required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities.  

Recommendations:

• Visit the Kansas DMV Website: Go to the official Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles website. There, you’ll find a detailed checklist of required documents and other helpful information.
• Gather Documents in Advance: Help your parent gather all the necessary documents well before visiting the DMV.
• Check DMV Wait Times: Some DMVs may offer online tools or information about wait times. Consider scheduling an appointment if possible.

I hope this helps!