What types of identification are required to apply for the O'Hare Badge?

The requirement for a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of residency makes sense because these forms of identification establish both the identity of the applicant and their address, which are crucial for security and verification purposes at a facility like O'Hare Airport. A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, is widely accepted and serves as a reliable means of confirming an individual's identity. Meanwhile, proof of residency ensures that the applicant has a tangible connection to the local area, which is important for security assessments in a high-traffic location like an airport.

The other options do not meet the necessary criteria for identification needed to apply for the O'Hare Badge. Birth certificates and Social Security cards, while they can establish identity and citizenship, are not sufficient on their own for this purpose. College IDs do not carry the same level of security and verification as a government-issued ID, and an employee badge from a current employer typically lacks the comprehensive verification of identity and residency needed for security eligibility. Hence, the correct answer encompasses the necessary criteria for ensuring the security of the airport environment.