What is the NSW Photo Card?

The NSW Photo Card is a voluntary card for people who do not hold a current NSW driver licence, or other form of photo identification, to help them show who they are. It may be used to help access a number of everyday services such as sending or receiving international mail, opening bank accounts and entering licensed premises.

The Photo Card replaces the Proof of Age Card.
(A current Proof of Age Card will be valid until 13 December 2008.)

How do I get a Photo Card?

To be eligible for a Photo Card you must:

• Be a NSW resident.
• Be aged 16 years and over.
• Not hold a current driver licence or Proof of Age Card (if you do you will need to surrender your driver licence or Proof of Age Card when you apply for your Photo Card).
• Meet the RTA's standard proof of identity criteria.

How to apply

The Photo Card application form is available from your local motor registry (or download it at the bottom of this page). Simply return the completed form to the motor registry with appropriate proof of identity documents, proof of residential address and the administration fee.

There will be no concessions (pensioner or other), but the fee may be waived in some circumstances.

To ensure the card's legitimacy, applicants must pass a strict proof of identity process. You will be required to produce original documents that prove who you are to the RTA. Your current residential address and signature must appear on at least one of these documents. For more information use the related link to Proof of identity.

Keep your card close

Just like a driver licence, your Photo Card holds important personal information about you so be careful who you give your card details to. Only police officers or RTA-authorised personnel are permitted to seize a card. You should not let any person or business scan your card. Businesses may only take a copy of your card with your permission.

If you lose your Photo Card, immediately report it to any motor registry or call 13 22 13. You will need to pay a replacement card fee of $20.

Proof of Age Card

The Proof of Age card has been replaced by the NSW Photo Card. New and replacement Proof of Age cards are no longer available. If your Proof of Age Card is lost, stolen or destroyed you can apply for a NSW Photo Card.

Proof of Age cards already in circulation will be valid until 13 December 2008.