Plans Underway to Restart Detroit ID Municipal Card Program

2023
  • Detroit Health Department is actively seeking bids from authorized vendors
  • Photo ID Card provides access to all Detroiters for City services, and assists in the establishment of bank/utility accounts
  • New vendor sought on the basis of software and protocols that deliver an enhanced level of security to safeguard applicants’ data
  • Cost is $10 - No appointment will be necessary to apply – walk-ins welcome at two locations

The Detroit Health Department is in the early stages of preparing to relaunch its popular municipal identification card program - Detroit ID - and is seeking qualified vendors. The City recently issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking vendors who can securely process applications and print Detroit ID cards on-site.

The Detroit Municipal ID card provides all Detroiters (regardless of immigration status, age, or gender identity) with a photo ID, so they are able to access City Services, open a checking and savings account at One Detroit Credit Union, gain entry to City buildings, or establish a utility account with providers such as DTE Energy and Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. The Detroit Municipal ID card does not replace a Michigan state-issued ID card or a driver’s license, and cannot be used for driving or traveling.

The Detroit Municipal ID card is available to all Detroiters, including those who are experiencing homelessness or who may be a returning citizen. The cost is $10 for ages 12+, free for children under the age of 11. Applicants under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian present during their application appointment. Fees may be waived for applicants experiencing homelessness.

“The need for equitable access to basic city services is great here in the city of Detroit, and the provision of a Municipal ID levels the playing field for many underserved populations,” said Chief Public Health Officer, Denise Fair Razo.

The Detroit Health Department is working with the Immigration Task Force to ensure any concerns regarding data security are addressed. Included in the RFP is the city’s requirement for a secure process that does not include second- or third-party access to applicant information.

“Our Immigration Task Force, council office, and our residents are so excited for our Detroit ID! It has been a long time coming for this much needed resource that connects residents to opportunities,” said Gabriela Santiago-Romero, Council Member for City of Detroit District 6. “We need IDs to go to doctor appointments, open bank accounts, and pick up our medical prescriptions. We’re grateful for our Health Department that has been working diligently to reinstate our Detroit ID and to make the process as easy as possible.”

Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero, whose district includes a large undocumented population in southwest Detroit, is a strong supporter of the Detroit ID program.

The Detroit Municipal ID card will be supported by community partners at both the local and state level. Information about how to apply to submit an RFP and become a qualified vendor to the City of Detroit is available here: https://detroitmi.gov/departments/office-chief-financial-officer/ocfo-divisions/office-contracting-and-procurement/supplier-information-and-instructions. Proposals for RFP #183945 will be accepted starting at 8 a.m. on October 2, 2023 through 1 p.m. on October 30, 2023.