N
The Daily Insight Hub

Why do I need a military ID?

Author

Matthew Harrington

Updated on February 03, 2026

Uniformed Services ID Cards are for military family members, military retirees, reservists and National Guard not in active-duty status and others who are eligible for DoD benefits such as commissary and exchange shopping and military medical benefits because of their direct affiliation with DoD.

What is the purpose of an ID card?

Identification. The most common use of an ID card is to verify that the person holding it is indeed who she claims to be. You can then use it to match any additional information she gives you such as the address on an application form.

What do you need to get a military ID?

At least one form of ID must be a valid State or Federal government-issued picture identification (for example, passport, driver’s license, or current DoD ID card). (4) Signed using a general Power of Attorney. A wet or digital signature is acceptable. While at a RAPIDS Site, expect to have your picture taken.

What are the benefits of a veterans ID card?

A Veteran ID Card (VIC) is a form of photo ID you can use to get discounts offered to Veterans at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. When you have this card, you won’t need to carry around your military discharge papers or share sensitive personal information to receive discounts.

Can my girlfriend get a military ID?

Can a veteran spouse get a military ID card? Yes, if they meet the qualifications. Spouses of 100% disabled veterans are eligible for an ID card.

Who qualifies as military dependent?

Military dependents are the spouse(s), children, and possibly other familial relationship categories of a sponsoring military member for purposes of pay as well as special benefits, privileges and rights.

Why do you need a military ID card?

The Military ID card is an essential part of accessing your benefits, without it you may not be able to get on base, go to the commissary, child care, or get health care. The Department of Defense issues eligible dependents and other eligible individuals a distinct identification card…

What kind of iD do I need as a veteran?

A Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Card—either a Common Access Card (CAC) or Uniformed Services ID Card, or A state-issued driver’s license or ID with a Veterans designation Note: If you already have one of these, you don’t need a Veteran ID Card, but you can still apply for it if you’d like.

What kind of iD do I need to renew my military ID?

Sponsors and adult family members, including children over age 18, must bring two forms of ID: 1) a valid state or federal government-issued photo ID, and 2) Any ID from this list of acceptable documents. The renewal term for military ID cards varies depending on a wide variety of factors.

Where to get a military dependent ID card?

Family members and eligible dependents are required to report to a RAPIDS ID Card issuing site in order to be issued the appropriate ID card. Since not all military installations have the ability to use RAPIDS you may need to ask your command or unit administration office for a list of ID Card issuing locations…