About applying for identity document

Get an identity document (ID) to confirm your individuality with private and public institutions. 

An ID identifies your age, gender and citizenship.

You need an ID to use services such as banking and education.

You can apply for an ID if:

• you are 16 years or older
• you are a South African citizen or a permanent resident
• it is lost, stolen or damaged 
• your personal particulars have changed
• you are married or would like to resume any of your previous surnames
• your citizenship status has changed and you want to return to South Africa.

Note: If your ID is lost, you can ask for a temporary ID, which is only valid for three months.

What you should do

• Go to your nearest Department of Home Affairs or service point
• Complete form DHA- 9
• Bring the following:
• Copy of your birth certificate or previous ID book
• reference book or a copy of the TBVC (Transkei, Bophuthatswana, Venda and Ciskei) ID or travel document
• two identical photos
• your marriage certificate, if applicable
• your permanent residence permit or SA citizenship certificate and your passport, if applicable
• Your fingerprints will be taken for recording in the National Population Register.

Note:  You can no longer receive your ID book in the post but have to collect it at the office where you made the initial application.

Timeframe

• It takes about 54 days to process first ID application
• It takes about 47 days to process re-issue ID application
• Temporary ID - same day if fingerprints are captured on Hanis System
  

Note: To receive an update on your ID application status, SMS the word ‘ID’, followed by your ID number e.g. (ID 1212127891082), to 32551.

How much does it cost

• First ID application - Free
• Re-issue of ID - R140.00
• Temporary identity certificate (TIC) - R70.00
• Frame of four photographs taken for ID applications.
  

Forms to complete

*Application for identity document, DHA-9

Note: *Special specifications and requirements regarding the processing of this form apply and it may therefore not be downloaded for use as an application or registration form. All forms are available at any regional or district office of the Department.

Who to contact

Client Service Centre
Toll free number 0800 601 190