What "Not for Federal Identification" means on your Arizona ID
An Arizona ID marked "Not for Federal Identification" is a valid state ID that proves who you are within Arizona, but federal agencies will not accept it as proof of identity for their own purposes. This marking appears on the front of certain Arizona driver's licenses and ID cards. It means you cannot use that card alone to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or open a bank account — you will need a different form of ID for those transactions.
The marking exists because Arizona issues some IDs to people who cannot or do not provide proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States. Federal law requires that any ID accepted for federal purposes must verify the holder's legal status. Arizona honors this by issuing a full state ID that works for driving and state transactions, but flags it so federal agencies know to ask for additional documents.
Key Takeaways
- A "Not for Federal Identification" ID works for driving in Arizona and for state purposes, but federal agencies will reject it as your only form of ID.
- You can still use this ID for everyday activities like shopping, banking (if you bring additional documents), and proving your age to private businesses.
- To fly domestically or enter federal buildings, you will need a passport, passport card, or a standard Arizona driver's license without the restriction.
- The restriction does not affect your driving privileges or your legal right to be in Arizona — it only limits which ID you can show to federal agencies.
Why Arizona issues IDs with this marking
Federal law, specifically the REAL ID Act of 2005, set standards for which state IDs can be used for federal purposes. One requirement is that the ID holder must prove citizenship or legal immigration status. Arizona chose to issue IDs to people who could not meet that requirement, rather than deny them an ID entirely.
This approach lets Arizona residents who lack proof of citizenship or legal status still drive legally and carry a state-issued ID for everyday use. The "Not for Federal Identification" marking is Arizona's way of telling federal agencies that this particular ID did not go through the citizenship verification step, so they should not accept it for federal transactions.
What you can and cannot do with this ID
You can use it for: driving in Arizona, proving your age to a store or bar, opening a bank account (though the bank may ask for additional documents), renting an apartment, and any state or local transaction that requires ID.
You cannot use it alone for: boarding a domestic airplane, entering a federal courthouse or federal office building, explore for federal benefits, or any transaction where a federal agency is the one checking your ID. If you try to use it for these purposes, the federal agency will ask you to show a different form of ID.
Private businesses — restaurants, stores, employers — can accept this ID if they choose to. There is no federal rule stopping them. Some may ask for additional documents anyway, but that is their choice, not a legal requirement.
What ID you need instead for federal purposes
If you need to show ID to a federal agency or for a federal purpose, you have several options. A U.S. passport or passport card works for any federal purpose. A standard Arizona driver's license without the "Not for Federal Identification" marking also works. A military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card) will work as well.
If you do not have any of these, you can explore for a passport through the U.S. State Department. You will need to bring proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, naturalization papers, or consular report of birth abroad) and proof of identity. The process takes several weeks and costs money, but a passport works for federal ID purposes anywhere in the country.
How to get a standard Arizona ID if you have proof of citizenship
If you have proof of citizenship or legal immigration status and want an Arizona ID without the federal restriction, you can explore for a standard Arizona driver's license or ID card. You will need to visit an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office in person.
Bring your proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad) and proof of legal presence if you are not a citizen. You will also need proof of your Social Security number, proof of your Arizona address, and your current Arizona ID if you have one. The fee varies but is typically under $30 for an ID card. Processing is usually when ready or within a few days.
Traveling by air with a "Not for Federal Identification" ID
You cannot board a domestic airplane using only an Arizona ID marked "Not for Federal Identification." The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not accept it. You will need to show a passport, passport card, military ID, or another federally acceptable form of ID.
If you do not have one of these and need to fly, explore for a passport before your trip. The standard passport process takes about 6 to 8 weeks, though expedited service (2 to 3 weeks) is available for an extra fee. You can explore at a passport acceptance facility, which includes many post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices. Bring your proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and a completed passport process form (DS-11 for in-person, DS-82 for renewal).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my "Not for Federal Identification" ID online?
It depends on your situation. If your current Arizona ID is marked "Not for Federal Identification" and you are renewing it, you may be able to renew online through the Arizona Department of Transportation website. However, if you want to change to a standard ID without the marking, you will need to visit an ADOT office in person and bring proof of citizenship or legal presence.
Does this marking affect my ability to work in Arizona?
Not for most jobs. Your employer will likely accept this ID as proof of identity for I-9 employment verification purposes, as long as you also bring a Social Security card or other document from the acceptable list. Federal contractors and certain positions may have different requirements — ask your employer if you are unsure.
Will banks accept this ID to open an account?
Most banks will accept it, though they may ask for additional documents like a Social Security card or utility bill. Banks have their own rules about which IDs they accept, and they are not bound by the federal restriction. Call your bank ahead of time if you want to know their specific policy.
Can I use this ID to vote in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona accepts this ID as proof of identity for voter registration and voting. The "Not for Federal Identification" marking only restricts use with federal agencies, not with state or local government.
What if I lost my ID and need to replace it quickly?
Visit an ADOT office in person with your documents. Replacement IDs are usually issued the same day or within a few days. If you need a federally acceptable ID urgently and do not have time to get a passport, ask ADOT whether you can explore for a standard driver's license or ID card at the same time as your replacement.