The Student Identification Card Act of 2025 mandates that the Mayor ensure that all local education agencies issue student identification cards to middle and high school students by January 5, 2026. These identification cards must include essential information such as the school's name, the school year, the student's name, and a photo of the student. This legislation addresses the current lack of a standardized identification system for students, as the previous DC ONE Card program has been phased out and does not adequately serve as a student ID.
The bill aims to provide students with a reliable form of government-issued identification, which is crucial for verifying their identity and age in various situations, both within and outside of school. By implementing this requirement, the District's public schools will align with practices in most public school districts across the United States, ensuring that students have access to a basic resource that enhances their safety and identification capabilities.