The Chicago CityKey is an optional, valid, government-issued ID card available to Chicago residents for FREE! Additionally, you can use it as a Chicago Public Library card, a CTA Ventra card and a Chicago Rx prescription drug discount card.
To apply for a CityKey ID, you can use our CityKey online platform to receive your CityKey in the mail or schedule an appointment using the CityKey appointment system to attend an in-person event.
Applying using the CityKey Online Platform
Applying online is an optional way of obtaining a CityKey ID, and constituents can still attend a printing event by scheduling an appointment using our CityKey appointment system.
To get started with your CityKey online application:
- Visit www.getcitykey.com/CityKey, and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Fill out the required fields on the online application.
- If you have a Chicago Public Library card, you can enter your library card number during the online application process, and you must upload a photo of your library card.
- Upload the necessary documents, review the CityKey document guide to determine what documents you can submit:
- Proof of Identity documents
- Proof of Residency documents
- Passport-size, color and clear photo for your ID
- Photo background must be one solid color
- Review and confirm your information before submitting your application.
After submitting your application, you will receive an email confirmation of your CityKey application. We will review your application and follow up with an update. If your application is approved, you will receive your CityKey in the mail within 10-12 business days.
If your application is rejected, our team will follow up with you through email to let you know that your application was denied.
Please note that a record of ALL the information you submit is retained according to the City’s retention schedule.
Applying using the CityKey Appointment System
You can follow the simple steps in our video below to schedule an appointment for a CityKey appointment system:
- To get started, go to www.getcitykey.com and scroll down to our services to schedule an appointment by date or location.
- Once you select the desired location or date, you can add additional applicants, you are limited to 4 applicants. From there, you can choose from the available appointments.
- After submitting your request, you will be prompted to enter your email address to submit your appointment and receive a confirmation email with your confirmation code. You can enter more than one email if there is more than one applicant.
- Lastly, you will be redirected to your appointment confirmation code. You must present this code at the time of the appointment to enter the event and apply for a CityKey.
- After you’ve scheduled an appointment, you can view or cancel your appointment by clicking on the lookup an existing appointment and cancel or reschedule appointment buttons on the appointment homepage.
- Please note, that a record of your email address will be kept and used to provide you with appointment details.
Items to bring to your appointment:
- Bring the proper documentation, including the required Proof of Identity and Proof of Residency. Review the CityKey document guide to determine what documents you can submit.
CityKey application, select an application form below:
- Confirmation code, this is the code that is emailed to you after you confirm your appointment.
Don’t see any appointments? No worries, we add new events weekly to our site. For more information, check out our CityKey FAQ! We hope to see you soon!