About applying for identity document

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

An ID identifies your gender, citizenship and age.

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

You can apply for ID if:

• you are 15 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 BI- 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 six to eight weeks to process your ID application
• Temporary ID - same day

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 - R20.00
• Temporary- R20.00

Forms to complete

*Application for identity document, BI-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