IDNYC: How To Get The New Identification Card & Where To Use It

Rainy days are made for exploring museums, but when you have a small army of kids queued up, it can be a little hard on the wallet. For New York City residents relief exists, and it’s called IDNYC. Now in it’s seventh month, and celebrating extended benefits including a special Veteran designation, IDNYC is the free (through the end of 2015) identification for NYC residents that comes with an enviable list of incentives.

If you haven’t yet applied for you own card, now’s the time to do it. The kinks experienced during the January launch have been ironed out and many application sites now have next-day appointments available.

Here’s what you need to know to make the most out of your IDNYC:

Making An Appointment

Appointments can be made online through the IDNYC website. Some sites tend to be busier than others, so check through different locations if possible. There are also pop-up locations, such as Flatbush Library and at community events. Just keep in mind that while pop-up sites don’t require an appointment, they may have long lines.

Who Can Apply

IDNYC is for all residents of New York City ages 14 and up, regardless of housing and citizenship status. Should you not have a permanent address, you can opt to pick up your IDNYC at an enrollment center or select a “care to” address where it will be mailed. The application for IDNYC does not ask about immigration status or criminal history, and the incentives are for anyone with the card.

What To Bring

For most applicants, government-issued identification is sufficient to prove identity and address — this includes foreign passports and foreign birth certificates. Check the IDNYC website for a document checklist.

At The Appointment

You’ll have your picture taken and will verify the information on the form. If all goes well, you should receive your card in the mail two weeks later. The whole process is slightly easier than a day at the DMV.

The Perks

In addition to allowing you access to government buildings like public schools and being an acceptable ID for opening a bank account, you can show your IDNYC at over 33 cultural institutions and receive a yearly membership — not just free admission, you’ll be enrolled for one year of membership benefits including tickets, discounts, and guest passes. An estimated $2,100 in savings, local participating sites include the Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. Some museums even offer reciprocal benefits which allow you admission to partner museums around the country. Check with Guests Services at each museum for information on full benefits.

Staying Healthy

Use your IDNYC to receive a 10% discount on Parks Department Recreation Center memberships and a 20% discount on a family membership at YMCAs across the borough. YMCA members get discounted pricing for camp programs — check out our roundup of Brooklyn summer camps which includes local YMCAs.

Staying Entertained

IDNYC comes with access to Member Deals, a website offering discounts for theater tickets, hotels, theme parks, and car rentals. Next time you’re taking the kids to a movie at Regal Cinemas, buy ticket passes through Member Deals and pay $8.60 per ticket, or only $7.50 if you’re heading to Clearview Cinemas.

While IDNYC is here to stay, the incentives are only available this year. Which perk are you most excited about? Comment below and share your ideas for the best family fun IDNYC offers.