Community ID Cards
For PlainfieldMunicipal ID Program, please click this link here for pdf from Plainfieldnj.gov or call City Clerk 908 753 3222
But not everyone drives—or has access to a driver's license.
Young people, individuals experiencing homelessness, people transitioning out of foster care or re-entering society, immigrants, seniors, and others may not have access to a driver's license or other commonly accepted forms of identification. Even a passport may not always be accepted as a practical form of everyday identification, and carrying an important passport everywhere can create additional risks if it is lost or stolen.
Since 2013, Angels For Action has provided Community ID Cards for Plainfield residents who may face barriers obtaining other forms of identification. The program helps provide a practical form of identification for everyday situations and can help individuals connect with basic community services.
A Community ID Card is not a government-issued identification card and does not provide legal residency or authorization to work. It is intended to serve as a community-based form of identification for individuals who may otherwise have difficulty obtaining or carrying other forms of ID.
Why it matters
- Access certain community and social services
- Establish identification when accessing participating organizations
- Access financial institutions and other basic services, where accepted
- Carry a practical form of identification without carrying a passport
- Help law enforcement and emergency responders confirm identity when needed
- Feel recognized as a member of the community
Identification is not only important for people without legal status. A U.S. citizen who is homeless, a young person without a driver's license, someone who has never driven, or an individual who has lost important documents may also face significant challenges when they cannot provide identification.
Our Community ID Card program recognizes that not having a driver's license should not mean a person has no way to identify themselves.
100% Community-Supported
The program is currently available to Plainfield residents only.
The card is a Community ID Card, not an official government-issued Municipal, City, State, or Federal ID card.
The program is operated by community volunteers and is not a government program.
The card is classified as a Community ID Card and should not be confused with an official Municipal or City ID card.
Please check with the specific organization or business before relying on the card for a particular service or transaction.
Passport, driver's license, or consular identification card
Lease agreement
Utility bill or telephone bill
Other approved documents demonstrating identity and residency
The exact combination of documents required may vary depending on the applicant's circumstances.
The program is operated by volunteers, and the fees are not intended to generate profit.
This information may help first responders provide appropriate assistance during emergencies, accidents, fires, crimes, or natural disasters.
The program may work alongside or be recognized by community partners, but it is not affiliated with, associated with, authorized by, endorsed by, or officially connected to organizations or businesses that provide in-kind support unless specifically stated
For all Mercer County residents, please contact LALDEF organization to obtain an ID Card for your area!
For all Roselle Borough residents, for information call 908-259-3038 or email his-lat@boroughofroselle.com to obtain an ID Card for your area!
The ability to provide proof of identity is a basic necessity that many Americans take for granted. Access to widely accepted forms of ID such as passports, drivers licenses and social security cards is a privilege that attends other privileges—privileges of race, of class and of citizenship. But, increasingly, identification requirements gate-keep almost every aspect of daily life. Without the right form of ID you may not be able to open a bank account or even cash a check, see a doctor at a hospital, register your child for school, apply for public benefits, file a complaint with the police department, borrow a book from a library, vote in an election, or even collect a package from the post office. Ironically, the very people who are most in need of such basic services are also those who have the most difficulty obtaining the proof of identity that will allow them to access those services. In addition to serving practical urgencies, identification cards also have a symbolic importance as a sign of membership in the community. Cities that offer ID to their residents regardless of immigration status are making a powerful statement of welcome and inclusion
populardemocracy.org