Veteran ID Card: How to Get One and What It’s For
A Veteran ID Card (VIC) is a digital photo ID you can use to get discounts at restaurants, hotels, stores, and other businesses. You may qualify if you served on active duty, in the Reserves, or in the National Guard and received an honorable or general discharge. Apply online through VA.gov. As of September 2022, all new VICs are digital.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Digital photo ID for Veteran discounts at participating businesses |
| Eligibility | Served on active duty, Reserves, or National Guard with honorable or general discharge |
| Application | Online through VA.gov (VIC) or AccessVA (VHIC) |
| Processing Time | VIC: within 60 days; VHIC: 7–14 days domestic, 21–30 days foreign |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Required Forms | DD-214, DD256, DD257, PHS1867, or NGB22; government-issued photo ID; digital photo |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Types of Veteran ID Cards: Which One Do You Need?
There are four main types of identification you can use to prove your Veteran status: the Veteran ID Card (VIC), the Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC), a Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Card, and a state-issued Veteran designation on your driver’s license or ID card. You only need one of them to prove you’re a Veteran for discount purposes. Each serves a different primary function.
| ID Type | Primary Purpose | Who Issues It | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran ID Card (VIC) | Retail and business discounts | VA | Free |
| Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) | Check-in at VA health appointments and discounts | VA | Free |
| DoD Identification Card | Military base access, benefits, and discounts | Department of Defense | Free |
| State Veteran Designation | Discounts and state benefits | State DMV | Varies by state |
The VIC and VHIC are the two cards most Veterans ask about. They are not the same card, and they serve different purposes.
Veteran ID Card (VIC)
The Veteran ID Card (VIC) is a digital photo ID you can use to get discounts offered to Veterans at many restaurants, hotels, stores, and other businesses. When you have this card, you won’t need to carry around your military discharge papers or share sensitive personal information to get discounts.
As of September 2022, all new Veteran ID Cards are digital. If you already have a physical Veteran ID Card, you can continue using it to get discounts.
The VIC is not a health care card. It cannot be used to access VA medical care or as proof of insurance.
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
The Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) is a photo ID card you’ll use to check in at your VA health care appointments. It is issued only to Veterans who are enrolled in the VA health care system. The VHIC eliminates the use of your Social Security Number as an identifier and enhances privacy protections.
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityYou may also use the VHIC to get discounts offered to Veterans at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. If you have a VHIC, you don’t need to request another type of photo ID card to prove you’re a Veteran or to get retail discounts.
Important:Â The VHIC cannot be used as an insurance card, and it does not authorize or pay for care at non-VA facilities.
DoD Identification Card
A Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Card is used to show your military status and to get access to services at military bases. You may also use this card to get discounts offered to Veterans at many stores, businesses, and restaurants.
If you have a DoD Identification Card, you don’t need to request another type of photo ID card to prove you’re a Veteran or to get retail or business discounts. You may be eligible if you are retired from the military, on active duty, or in the National Guard, Reserves, Selected Reserves, or Inactive Ready Reserve.
Depending on your status, the DoD issues either a Common Access Card (CAC) or a Uniformed Services ID Card (USID). You’ll need to fill out an Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment (DD Form 1172-2) and turn it in to a Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) office for processing.
State-Issued Veteran Designation
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico offer a Veteran designation on driver’s licenses and state ID cards. This designation makes it easy to show your Veteran status when asking about discounts and benefits from participating businesses.
Each state has its own application process and documentation requirements. Generally, you’ll need to present your DD-214 or another discharge document to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. Some states require a letter from the state Department of Veterans Affairs first. Contact your local DMV for specific instructions.
Who Qualifies for a Veteran ID Card (VIC)?
You may be eligible for a VIC if you meet two requirements: you served on active duty, in the Reserves, or in the National Guard (including the Coast Guard), and you received an honorable or general discharge (under honorable conditions).
If you received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable character of discharge, you’re not eligible for a Veteran ID Card. If you have an uncharacterized or unknown discharge status, VA will have to verify your eligibility before approving your application.
Who Qualifies for a VHIC?
You must be enrolled in VA health care to receive a VHIC. If you’re not already enrolled, you can apply online at VA.gov or by calling 1-877-222-VETS (8387). Once your enrollment is verified, you can request your VHIC.
Who Qualifies for a DoD ID Card?
You may be eligible if you are retired from the military, on active duty, in the National Guard, Reserves, Selected Reserves, or Inactive Ready Reserve. Certain 100% disabled Veterans and former spouses eligible for 20-20-20 benefits may also qualify.
How to Apply for a Veteran ID Card (VIC)
Applying for a VIC is free and can be completed entirely online. The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes if you have your documents ready.
Step-by-Step VIC Application
Gather your documents. You’ll need your Social Security number, a digital (scanned) copy of your DD214, DD256, DD257, PHS1867, or NGB22, and a copy of a current and valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued identification card.
Prepare your photo. You’ll need a digital color photo of yourself from the shoulders up. The photo must show a full front view of your face and neck (no hat or head covering), be cropped from your shoulders up like a passport photo, show you with your eyes open and a neutral expression, be taken in clothing you’d wear for a driver’s license photo, be square with a white or plain-color background, show what you look like now (taken within the last 10 years), and be uploaded as a .jpeg, .png, .bmp, or .tiff file.
Apply online. Visit VA.gov and sign in with your ID.me or Login.gov account. Complete the application and upload your documents and photo.
Wait for verification. VA will check your eligibility and verify that your character of discharge meets requirements, your submitted ID is valid, and your photo meets the requirements. Then VA will send you an email letting you know the status of your application.
Receive your digital card. If approved, you will receive a digital VIC that you can access online.
Note:Â If you have an unknown or uncharacterized discharge status, your application will take more time to process. VA may need to request your records from the National Personnel Records Center.
How to Apply for a VHIC
The VHIC application process is separate from the VIC. You must be enrolled in VA health care first.
Online method: Sign in to AccessVA using your ID.me or Login.gov account, or use your Defense Department Common Access Card (CAC) or Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card. Upload a digital color photo and a copy of your current, unexpired photo ID (driver’s license, U.S. passport, or federal, state, or local government-issued photo ID showing your name, address, and date of birth).
In-person method:Â Contact your nearest VA medical center and ask to speak with the enrollment coordinator. Arrange to get your picture taken for your new VHIC. Bring a current, unexpired ID to your photo appointment.
Important:Â Only request your card once, either in person or online. If you request your card more than once, it will cause a delay.
How to Apply for a State Veteran Designation
Contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific instructions. Generally, you’ll need to present your DD-214 or another discharge document. Some states require a letter from the state Department of Veterans Affairs before you can apply at the DMV. There may be a small fee associated with adding the designation to your license or ID.
Required Documents for a Veteran ID Card
The documents you need depend on which card you’re applying for. Here is a complete breakdown.
Documents for a VIC
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Social Security number | Required on the application |
| Discharge paperwork | DD214, DD256, DD257, PHS1867, or NGB22 (digital scan) |
| Government-issued photo ID | Driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID (current and valid) |
| Digital photo | Passport-style, taken within last 10 years, plain background |
Documents for a VHIC
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Proof of VA health care enrollment | Must be enrolled before applying |
| Primary photo ID | Driver’s license, U.S. passport, or other government-issued photo ID showing name, address, and date of birth |
| Proof of address (if needed) | Electric bill, cable bill, voter registration card, or other mailed document if your ID doesn’t show your current address |
| Digital photo | Taken within last 6 months, light background, full front view of face, neutral expression |
The VHIC identity proofing requires one primary approved document. Expired identification is not acceptable. Acceptable primary identification includes driver’s license, U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card, or other government-issued ID containing a photograph, name, date of birth, and address. If the address is not on the proofing document, you can provide separate documentation such as an electric bill, cable bill, voter registration card, or other mailing document.
Processing Times and Card Delivery
Processing times vary by card type.
| Card Type | Processing Time | Delivery Method |
|---|---|---|
| VIC | Within 60 days | Digital (accessible online) |
| VHIC (new) | 7–14 days domestic; 21–30 days foreign | Mailed from central off-site location |
| VHIC (renewal) | 5–10 days | Mailed |
| DoD ID Card | Same day (issued at RAPIDS office) | In person |
| State Designation | Varies by state; typically 2–4 weeks | Mailed with new license/ID |
VIC processing: Veterans who apply for a card should receive it within 60 days and can check delivery status at VA.gov. A digital version of the VIC is available online.
VHIC processing:Â Normal processing time is 7 to 14 days for domestic addresses and 21 to 30 days for foreign addresses. Processing could be longer during mass renewal periods. If it has been longer than 30 days, contact your local VA facility.
VHIC renewals:Â You can renew your VHIC online at AccessVA. Online or self-service requests are processed by the local team within 24-48 hours excluding weekends and holidays. Normal processing time is 5-10 days.
Important note:Â All VHIC cards are printed and mailed from a central off-site location regardless of renewal method. Presenting in person will not result in receiving your renewed card any faster.
What You Can Use a Veteran ID Card For
The primary use of a VIC, VHIC, DoD ID, or state designation is to prove your Veteran status for discounts and benefits. Here’s what each card can and cannot do.
Discounts and Benefits
Thousands of businesses offer discounts to Veterans. Common categories include:
Restaurants: Many national chains offer 10% to 20% off for Veterans with valid ID. Examples include Applebee’s, Chili’s, Denny’s, and Golden Corral.
Retail stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Under Armour, and Tommy Hilfiger are among retailers that offer military and Veteran discounts, often verified through ID.me.
Travel and hotels:Â Discounts at hotels, car rentals, and airlines. Budget Truck Rental offers up to 20% off with military ID.
Recreation:Â Free or discounted admission to national parks, museums, and other attractions.
Cell phone plans:Â Major carriers offer military and Veteran discounts on monthly plans.
Note: Retail vendors volunteer to take part in discount programs. If a business decides to provide discounts to Veterans, it doesn’t mean VA is recommending or favoring that business.
What a Veteran ID Card Cannot Do
| Card | Cannot Be Used For |
|---|---|
| VIC | Accessing VA health care, serving as insurance, replacing a driver’s license |
| VHIC | Serving as an insurance card, authorizing or paying for care at non-VA facilities |
| DoD ID | Accessing VA health care unless enrolled |
| State Designation | Federal benefits verification on its own |
The VHIC is not required to receive VA health care, but it is beneficial to quickly check in for VA appointments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Requesting your VHIC more than once. If you request your card both online and in person, it will cause a delay. Choose one method.
Using an expired ID. Expired identification is not acceptable for VHIC identity proofing. Make sure your driver’s license or passport is current.
Submitting a photo that doesn’t meet requirements. For a VIC, your photo must be taken within the last 10 years. For a VHIC, it must be taken within the last 6 months. Photos that don’t meet standards will be rejected and you’ll need to re-submit.
Confusing the VIC with the VHIC. The VIC is for discounts. The VHIC is for VA health care check-in. They are different cards with different applications.
Assuming you need a VIC if you have a VHIC or DoD ID. If you already have a VHIC, DoD ID, or a state driver’s license with a Veteran designation, you don’t need a VIC to get discounts.
Not updating your address before applying for a VHIC online. If your current ID lists an address different from what VA has on file, you’ll need to update your address with VA before you can request a VHIC online.
Waiting until your VHIC expires to renew. VA is notifying 1.5 million Veterans that their VHIC has or will expire soon. If you receive a notification, renew promptly to avoid delays.
Lost or Stolen Veteran ID Cards
If your VHIC is lost or stolen, you can replace it by phone, in person, or online.
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | Call 1-877-222-8387 |
| In person | Visit your local VA medical center |
| Online | Sign in to AccessVA if you have an account |
Replacement for VIC: Email vetidcard@va.gov to request a replacement of your VIC.
Replacement for DoD ID:Â Contact the nearest RAPIDS office or your personnel office for replacement procedures.
Common Questions
What is a Veteran ID Card used for?
A Veteran ID Card (VIC) is a digital photo ID you use to get discounts offered to Veterans at many restaurants, hotels, stores, and other businesses. It proves your Veteran status without requiring you to carry your DD-214 or share sensitive personal information.
What is the difference between a VIC and a VHIC?
The VIC is for retail and business discounts. The VHIC is for checking in at VA health care appointments. You must be enrolled in VA health care to get a VHIC. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care to get a VIC.
How long does it take to get a Veteran ID Card?
The VIC is delivered digitally within 60 days of application. The VHIC is mailed and takes 7 to 14 days for domestic addresses and 21 to 30 days for foreign addresses. VHIC renewals take 5 to 10 days.
Can I use my Veteran ID Card to get VA health care?
No. The VIC is not a health care card and cannot be used to access VA medical care. To get VA health care, you must enroll in VA health care and use your VHIC to check in at appointments.
Is the Veteran ID Card free?
Yes. The VIC and VHIC are both free. There is no application fee. Some states may charge a small fee to add a Veteran designation to your driver’s license or ID card.
What discharge status do I need for a Veteran ID Card?
You need an honorable or general discharge (under honorable conditions) to qualify for a VIC. If you received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharge, you are not eligible.
Can I use my DD-214 instead of a Veteran ID Card?
Yes. You can use your DD-214 to prove your Veteran status for discounts. However, the VIC is safer and more convenient because it doesn’t require you to carry around your discharge papers or share sensitive personal information.
How do I renew my VHIC?
You can renew your VHIC online at AccessVA. Online requests are processed within 24-48 hours and the card is mailed within 5-10 days. You can also renew in person at your local VA medical center or by phone at 1-877-222-8387.
What if my VHIC is lost or stolen?
You can replace your VHIC by calling 1-877-222-8387, visiting your local VA medical center in person, or using AccessVA online.
Do I need a Veteran ID Card to get military discounts?
No. Many businesses accept a DD-214, a driver’s license with a Veteran designation, a VHIC, or a DoD ID card as proof of Veteran status. The VIC is simply one convenient option.
Can I have both a VIC and a VHIC?
Yes. If you are enrolled in VA health care and want a discount card, you can have both. However, the VHIC also works for discounts, so many Veterans use it for both purposes and don’t need a separate VIC.
How do I apply for a Veteran ID Card if I have an uncharacterized discharge?
If you have an uncharacterized or unknown discharge status, VA will need to verify your eligibility before approving your application. Your application will take more time to process, and VA may need to request your records from the National Personnel Records Center.
Key Takeaways
A Veteran ID Card (VIC) is a digital photo ID for discounts at participating businesses. Apply free at VA.gov.
The Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) is for checking in at VA health appointments and requires enrollment in VA health care.
You may qualify for a VIC if you served on active duty, in the Reserves, or National Guard with an honorable or general discharge.
The VIC is delivered digitally within 60 days. The VHIC is mailed within 7–14 days domestically.
Required documents for a VIC include your DD-214, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport-style digital photo.
A DoD Identification Card or state Veteran designation on your driver’s license can also prove your Veteran status for discounts.
You don’t need a VIC if you already have a VHIC, DoD ID, or state Veteran designation.
Only request your VHIC once. Submitting multiple requests will cause delays.
The VIC and VHIC are both free. There is no application fee.
Veterans Crisis Line: 988, press 1.
Official Resources
VA.gov — How to Apply for a Veteran ID Card: https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic/
VA.gov — Types of Veteran ID Cards: https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/
VA.gov — Get a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC): https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-health-id-card/
VA.gov — Apply for VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply-for-health-care-form-10-10ez/
AccessVA (VHIC Requests):Â https://eauth.va.gov/accessva/
USAGov — Get or Replace a Military or Veteran ID Card: https://www.usa.gov/military-veteran-id
Veterans Crisis Line:Â https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
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