I think you can only replace an existing ID card online...........otherwise, he'd have to go in person in New York State to obtain an ID card for the first time. Does he have an existing card already, or an expired drivers' license, by chance? If not, you may be able to contact the Secretary of State's office to find out if it's possible to do this entirely online.
Good luck!!
social security card
needs I D card won’t leave house how do I do this? Is there a form