HOW TO CHOOSE & APPLY FOR A VETERAN ID CARD
Life after the military can provide many perks for those who have served. But you’re going to need to prove that you are in fact a Veteran. Thankfully, by obtaining your Veteran ID Card (VIC), you can prove your identity and status while retaining privacy over more sensitive portions of your personal information. To get a Veteran ID Card, there are different steps and forms to complete depending on the card type you need. Learn more about the process of getting various Veteran ID Cards that are available. Related: Veteran Benefits Are Expanding if You Have a Presumptive Disability
How to Get a Veteran ID Card
Veteran ID Cards are all digital. Here’s what you’ll need to do, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):
- Apply online using your existing login credentials for either a Login.gov, ID.me, DS Logon, or My HealtheVet account.
- You’ll need to provide your Social Security number, and digital copies of your DD214, DD256, DD257, or NGB22 uploaded in either a .pdf, .jpeg, or .png file format.
- You’ll also need to provide a copy of your current and valid government-issued ID. This can be a passport, driver’s license, or state-issued identification card.
- Applicants will also need to present a digital color photo from the shoulders up that follows the requirements laid out for receiving a military Veteran ID Card. This includes a full front view of your face and neck without coverings or shadows, a natural expression, eyes open, cropped from your shoulders up, taken in regular clothing, have a square-sized photo that is taken with a plain or white background (no other people or scenery in the background), and the photo must have been taken within the last 10 years. This can be uploaded as a .jpeg, .png, .bmp, or .tiff file
Once you are verified and it’s confirmed that you've sent in a picture that meets the above qualifications, you’ll be notified via email with a digital version you can use.
Different Types Are Available
The standard Veteran ID Card is important for any retired military that qualifies to enjoy it, but there are multiple types of IDs available. Here are the different types of VA ID cards and other Veteran ID options you may look into: Department of Defense Identification Card The Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Card is the Veteran ID Card to get on base. You can show your military status which grants you access to base services, discounts, and other business-related perks. DoD Identification Cards can help you prove you are a Veteran of the United States. Apply via the Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment Form (DD Form 1172-2) and turn it in through a Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) office to begin the process. Suggested Read: How To Get the New Free National Park Pass for VeteransVeteran Health Identification Card If you’re using the VA health care system, you’ll receive your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC). This allows you to check into appointments and receive discounts. You must be enrolled in the VA healthcare system for a VHIC, and if you are, you can request a card online or at your local VA medical center Veteran’s Designation on a State-Issued Driver’s License or ID While it varies from state to state, as do the requirements, you can receive a Veteran designation on your driver's license or state-issued ID. This is available in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Again, this is a great way to receive discounts and perks from a variety of businesses. When applying, you’ll need a copy of your discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents) but additional documents may be necessary. Contacting your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles office will help you identify the specific documents you’ll need.
How to Get a Veteran Spouse ID Card
A Veteran Spouse ID Card is available once you first secure enrollment in DEERS. You’ll need to produce your marriage certificate, your spouse’s birth certificate, your SS card, and a photo ID. You’ll need either the service member, power of attorney, or DD Form 1172-2, to receive a Veteran Spouse ID card. Appointments with the ID Card Office are not only suggested but in many cases necessary in this situation.
What Does a 100 Disabled Veteran ID Card Look Like?
A 100 Disabled Veteran ID Card or Dependent Identification Card can be used to help Veterans get in and out of military bases. Your Disabled Veteran ID Card is useful for receiving various services, including health care, as well as discounts at businesses. No matter which type of Veteran ID Card you pursue, they all signify that you have served and sacrificed to help keep our country safe. Enjoy the perks and use your IDs to secure your access to well-deserved benefits and discounts. Read Next: VA Caregiver Program: Everything You Need to Know