Deaf Identification Cards

Last Updated; January 12, 2023

The Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened provides "proof of deafness" identification cards, on a voluntary basis (only if you want one). These cards are wallet-sized, contain the seal of the State of Maine and are laminated (sealed in plastic). They are custom made for each person and contain:

Name

Date of birth

Type of communication you need

Signature of the Director of the Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened

Telephone numbers for interpreter services and the Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened

These identification cards do not have a photograph on them as they once did. Driver's licenses or ID cards from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles now have photos on them. This card and a photo drivers license (or BMV ID card) is proof of identity and hearing loss.

In order to receive an Identification Card, you must submit a completed application along with proof of hearing loss/deafness. Proof of hearing loss/deafness may include any one of the following:

A copy of an audiogram signed by a licensed professional.

A copy of a diploma from a School for the Deaf.

A signature from a physician, otolaryngologist (ENT) or audiologist on the application form.

Proof on file of inclusion in another program such as the Telecommunications Equipment Program (TEP) from the Disability Rights Maine-Deaf Services (DRM), the 70% rate reduction for long distance calls within the state of Maine (intrastate) for D/deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired persons who rely on specialized equipment for residential phone communications, or the Hearing Loss Placard Program from the Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened.

To obtain an application for a Deaf Identification Card, contact:

Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened
150 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0150
(207)470-7668 VP
(207)623-7958 Voice
Maine Relay 711
(207)287-5292 FAX
E-mail: Nancy.A.Winter@maine.gov

You can also download the application and print it by selecting the link below:

After completing the application, scan it, mail it or fax it to the Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened at the Email address, mailing address or fax number given above.

Division for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing & Late-Deafened ID Application