The PHL City ID program is a program that helps Philadelphia more welcoming and accessible for residents. As part of Welcoming Week celebrations, we asked the City ID staff a few questions about their program. Interviewed PHL City ID staff include Shackira Reyes, Anjanette Velzaco and Zuhail Corro-Vazquez.
Q: For those who may be unfamiliar, what is the City ID program?
Municipal IDs are identification cards issued by local governments, including cities like Philadelphia. The PHLCityID launched in 2019 to provide an accessible form of government-issued identification for residents who may face barriers to obtaining other types of ID, such as cost or documentation requirements.
Unlike a Pennsylvania state ID or driver’s license, the PHL City ID is issued by the City of Philadelphia. It is not a driver’s license and cannot be used to drive, nor does it replace state or federal ID where those are required.
Q: When is the PHL City ID most useful?
The PHL City ID is widely used for everyday needs that require identification. Common uses include accessing city services and buildings, banking, public transportation programs, consular services, community programs and library access, as the card also serves as a Free Library of Philadelphia library card. Some health centers also accept the PHLCityID during registration.
Q: Are there any new initiatives you’re excited about?
In 2026, the City is relaunching the PHL City ID Benefit Partners Program, which connects cardholders with local businesses, cultural institutions, financial organizations and service providers. Participating partners offer benefits such as discounts, free admission, promotions or enhanced services.
Current partners include the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Indego, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Eastern State Penitentiary, Ensemble Arts Philly, Arden Theatre Company, Vista Peru and Cuba Libre Restaurant.
Q: How does PHLCityID support inclusivity and protect personal information?
The PHLCityID is available to all Philadelphians ages 13 and older who can provide proof of identity and address. Language access services help applicants whose primary language is not English by providing interpretation during the application process.
Q: Are there benefits cardholders may not know about?
Benefits offered by partners are updated regularly. Residents can
Visit the PHL CityID website to view the full list of benefit partners.
Q: Where can residents get a PHL City ID, and what documents are needed?
The PHL City ID office is located in the Municipal Service Building, 1401 JFK Blvd., Room C-379, Philadelphia, PA 19102. Residents can also schedule an appointment to receive a PHL City ID
- Applicants must live in Philadelphia, be at least 13 and provide documents totaling four points: three for identity and one for address.
- Cost is $5 for ages 13–17, $10 for ages 18–64 and free for applicants 65 and older. The office accepts cash or money orders. Appointments are required, but walk-ins are accepted.
- PHL City ID staff speak French, Haitian Creole, Chinese, Portuguese and Spanish, with additional interpretation services for other languages.
