Maryland2026Active
HB0023
Rules for Minors Getting ID Cards
Last scannedAug 22, 2026, 4:24 AM
In one sentence
This law stops the Motor Vehicle Administration from requiring parents to be present when minors aged 15 or older apply for an identification card and lists new documents these teens can use to prove where they live.
What it does
- Stops the Motor Vehicle Administration from making a parent sign or show up with a minor who is at least 15 years old during their ID application.
- Requires the agency to create rules about which papers count as proof of address for minors aged 15 and older.
- Allows school records, homeless service documents, court papers, child welfare files, and health insurance forms to prove residency.
- Permits a notarized letter from an adult living with the minor if that adult also provides their own proof of residence.
- States that minors who cannot meet federal Real ID Act rules may still receive an identification card.
Who it affects
- Minors in Maryland who are at least 15 years old and want to get a state-issued identification card.
- The Motor Vehicle Administration, which must update its application rules and accepted documents.
Limits and unknowns
- The bill does not list every possible document a minor can use, as it allows the agency to accept other papers they decide are appropriate.
- This law only applies to minors who are at least 15 years old; younger teens may still need different rules.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Motor Vehicle Administration
- The state agency that issues driver's licenses and identification cards in Maryland.
- Real ID Act
- A federal law that sets specific rules for what documents are needed to get an ID card accepted by the government.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Prohibiting the Motor Vehicle Administration from requiring a parent or legal guardian of a minor at least 15 years of age to cosign or be present at the time of submission of the minor's application for an identification card; and requiring the Administration to adopt regulations establishing acceptable forms of documentation establishing proof of residency that a minor at least 15 years of age may use in an application for an identification card.
Official activity
Bill history
- In the House - Hearing 2/05 at 1:00 p.m.