Milwaukee Officials Promote Municipal ID Program
With deportation raids looming, 'easy and simple' process costs $10 for identification card.
Alderwomen JoCasta Zamarripa (left) and Marina Dimitrijevic get their municipal IDs. Photo provided.
With the threat of deportation raids looming, two Milwaukee alderwomen are promoting the city’s municipal identification program.
“After walking through the entire process, I couldn’t believe how easy and simple it was to obtain a municipal ID. I was even able to show the document for proof of city residency by downloading a bill on my phone,” said Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic in a press release. “Our municipal ID program is an outstanding asset that all residents can use from all backgrounds and genders. We have these great resources and we want our city to use them.”
“For some within our community, receiving a proper form of ID can be a life-changing experience. It allows for access to a variety of public and private services, and reduces barriers in a number of ways. I would encourage anyone without an ID to consider taking a short amount of time to apply for one today,” said Ald. JoCasta Zamarripa.
The program was first launched in 2017. A 2025 budget allocation for it provided $5,000 to replace what was described as a failing printer.
The ID cards, which cost $10 each, cannot be used to vote or access public benefits. But, at the discretion of the institution involved, the cards can be used to access medical care, open bank accounts or provide proof of residency.
The city’s License Division, according to a press release, is expected to add a section to its website of institutions that accept the identification card.
Individuals must be at least 14 years old to apply (and minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian) and must submit a completed application, with proof of identity and residency, to the License Division. Applications must be submitted in person at Milwaukee City Hall, room 105. Applications are available in English, Spanish and Hmong. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
The IDs expire after five years.
More information is available on the municipal ID webpage.
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