Pennsylvania State ID and Licenses

1. Pennsylvania State ID

We recommend that students obtain a Pennsylvania State ID.

Pennsylvania State ID is a photo identification card that is issued to any Pennsylvania resident who is at least 10 years of age.

Beginning May 7, 2025, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight or enter a federal building or military installation that requires ID. (If you do not have a REAL ID you will need to use your passport for travel within the US).

Benefits of having a Pennsylvania State ID:

• You will not be required to carry your passport while traveling within the U.S.

• Pennsylvania State ID will have your birth date on it, which is not present on the Bryn Mawr OneCard.

How to Obtain Pennsylvania State ID: Please visit the PennDOT website at dmv.pa.gov and Driver Services, “Get a Photo ID.” 

2. Driver’s License

A Driver’s License can serve as Photo Identification Card as well. An initial Learner's Permit is issued to any individual, 16 years of age or older, who has never been licensed to operate a vehicle, a new resident who has never been licensed, or a new resident who has been licensed in another state but whose driver license has been expired longer than 6 months. A Knowledge Test and eye exam are required to obtain a Learner’s Permit. Once you have a Learner’s Permit you can schedule a driving skill road test if you are 18 years old or older. If you are under 18 years additional steps are required before obtaining your Driver’s License.

How to Obtain a Driver’s License: Please visit the PennDOT website at dmv.pa.gov and Driver Services, “Get a Driver’s License.” 

Can I drive in Pennsylvania with my Foreign Driver's License?
Individuals who possess a valid foreign driver's license from their country are authorized to drive in Pennsylvania for up to one year from their date of entry into the United States, or upon expiration of their foreign license, whichever comes first. International driving permits are strongly recommended, but not required.

3. Documents needed when obtaining a Pennsylvania State ID and Driver’s License include:

  • Complete appropriate form
  • Valid Passport
  • Social Security Card or ineligibility letter from Social Security Administration
  • Immigration Documents
    • I-94
    • Visa
    • I-20
  • Two acceptable proofs of residency in Pennsylvania, such as:
    • Utility bills
    • Bank statement
    • Proof of on-campus housing (see the resident life office for assistance)
    • Lease, etc.  
  • Physical health exam (for Driver’s License only, not required for Pennsylvania State ID). Can visit Student Health Center to complete Page 2 of DL-180.

Note: Additional documents are required if you have a OPT or STEM-OPT visa. For a comprehensive list of document requirements see PennDOT’s Fact Sheet: Identification and Legal Presence Requirements for Non-United States Citizens (PUB I95NC)