FOI endorsement is a notation that appears on your driver's license or ID card, not a separate document or process you explore for

FOI stands for "Friends of Israel," and an FOI endorsement is a voluntary marking that some states allow on driver's licenses and ID cards. It is not a government program, a benefit, or something that changes your legal status. It is straightforward a way for people to display support for Israel on their state-issued ID.

The endorsement appears as a small marking or notation on the card itself. Whether your state offers this option, what it looks like, and how you request it varies significantly by state. Some states have introduced FOI endorsements in recent years, while others do not offer them at all. A few states have passed laws allowing them, but the programs are not yet active.

This is different from other ID endorsements you may have seen — like motorcycle endorsements on a driver's license, which indicate you are licensed to operate a specific vehicle type. An FOI endorsement is purely voluntary and symbolic; it has no legal effect on your driving privileges, voting rights, or any other legal status.

Key Takeaways

  • FOI endorsements are optional markings on state ID cards and driver's licenses that indicate support for Israel.
  • Not all states offer FOI endorsements; availability depends on your state's laws and current program status.
  • Requesting an FOI endorsement typically happens when you renew your license or explore for a new ID, not as a separate transaction.
  • An FOI endorsement is a personal choice and does not affect your legal rights, driving status, or government benefits.
  • You can contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out whether your state offers this option and what the process is.

Which states currently offer FOI endorsements

As of now, only a handful of states have active FOI endorsement programs on driver's licenses and ID cards. Texas was among the first to introduce the option. A few other states have passed legislation allowing FOI endorsements, but the programs may not yet be operational or may still be in the early stages of rollout.

Because state laws change and programs launch at different times, the list of states offering FOI endorsements is not static. Some states may have passed bills but not yet implemented the program. Others may be considering legislation. The best way to find out whether your state offers this option is to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly or visit their website.

If your state does not currently offer FOI endorsements, there is no national alternative or workaround. You would need to wait for your state to introduce the program, or you can contact your state legislators if you want to advocate for one.

How to request an FOI endorsement when you renew your license

If your state offers FOI endorsements, the request is usually made at the same time you renew your driver's license or ID card. You do not need to make a separate appointment or submit additional paperwork beyond what a standard renewal requires.

When you go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles office or renew online (if your state allows it), you will typically see a question or checkbox asking whether you want to add an FOI endorsement to your card. If you select yes, the endorsement will be printed on your new license or ID when it is issued. Some states may ask you to sign a form confirming your choice, but this is usually part of the standard renewal packet.

Bring the same documents you would bring for any license renewal — your current license, proof of residency, and any other documents your state requires. Processing times for a renewed license with an FOI endorsement are the same as for a standard renewal, typically one to two weeks for a card to arrive by mail.

What happens if you already have a license and want to add an FOI endorsement

If your license is still valid and you want to add an FOI endorsement without waiting for your renewal date, you will need to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out whether that is possible. Some states allow you to request an updated card before your renewal date, while others require you to wait until your scheduled renewal.

If your state does allow an early update, there may be a fee — typically the same fee as a replacement card or a reduced renewal fee. You would go to your local DMV office, request an updated license with the FOI endorsement, and receive a new card. The old card would be invalidated.

If your state does not allow early updates, you will need to wait until your license renewal date to add the endorsement. Make a note of your renewal date so you remember to request it when you renew.

FOI endorsements and privacy concerns

Some people have raised questions about whether displaying an FOI endorsement on a government ID raises privacy or safety concerns. This is a personal decision that only you can make. If you are concerned about having this marking visible on your ID, you do not have to request it — it is entirely optional.

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles does not track or report who requests FOI endorsements. The endorsement is straightforward a marking on your card, the same way a state might display a veteran status or organ donor status. It is visible only to people who see your physical ID card.

If you have concerns about how the endorsement might affect you in specific situations, consider those carefully before you request it. You can always choose not to add it, or you can remove it during your next renewal by not requesting it again.

Removing an FOI endorsement from your license

If you have an FOI endorsement on your current license and no longer want it, you can remove it during your next renewal. When you renew, straightforward do not request the endorsement. Your new license will not include it.

If you want to remove the endorsement before your renewal date, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to ask whether you can request an updated card. Some states allow this for a fee; others require you to wait until your scheduled renewal. The process is the same as requesting an early update for any other reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an FOI endorsement affect my driving privileges or legal rights?

No. An FOI endorsement is a voluntary marking on your ID card only. It does not change your driving privileges, voting rights, employment status, or any other legal right. It is purely symbolic.

Can I request an FOI endorsement online, or do I have to go to the DMV in person?

That depends on your state. Some states allow you to request endorsements during an online renewal. Others require you to renew in person at a DMV office. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to see what options are available to you.

Is there a fee for adding an FOI endorsement to my license?

In most states, there is no additional fee to add an FOI endorsement during a standard renewal. If you request an early update before your renewal date, your state may charge a replacement or renewal fee, but this is not specific to the endorsement.

What if my state does not offer FOI endorsements yet?

You can contact your state legislators to express interest in the program, or you can wait for your state to introduce one. There is no federal program or alternative. Some states are still considering or implementing FOI endorsement legislation.

Can I have an FOI endorsement on both my driver's license and my state ID card?

If your state offers FOI endorsements, you can request one on whichever ID card you are renewing or updating. You can have it on your driver's license, your state ID card, or both, depending on which cards you hold and renew.