How to Get a Military ID Card and the Benefits It Offers

Table of Contents [Hide]

Military ID Card: Introduction

Military ID cards are issued to active or retired members of the United States military, making them legal identification and proof of length of military service. ID cards are used as proof of identity for benefits, activities, and transactions related to the military. ID cards are also used to gain access to secure military buildings, installations, and facilities.

The Department of Defense issues several types of military ID cards for different purposes. Depending on the individual's military status, privileges, and length of service, different cards may be issued. The three main types of ID cards issued are the common access card (CAC), the uniformed services ID card (USID), and the retiree card.

The CAC is a secure form of identification issued to all active duty and reserve service members. It is used to access military facilities and to purchase items or services from military and Coast Guard exchanges. This card is also used to access federal government computer systems and networks, such as Defense Travel System.

The USID Card is a smart card-based form of identification used by members of the National Guard and reserve, as well as their families. This card is also used to access military facilities, to purchase items or services from military and Coast Guard exchanges, and to access federal government computer systems and networks.

The retiree card is issued to retired service members of the military or their dependents. This card is primarily used for identification. With this card, retirees can access certain privileges such as military exchanges, commissaries, morale, welfare, and recreation services.

Military ID cards provide numerous features and benefits for active, reserve, and retired service members. The features and benefits of each card vary, depending on the cardholder's military status. Some of the most common features and benefits of a military ID card include:

  • Protects against identity theft

  • Prevents unauthorized access to government computer systems and networks

  • Allows access to military installations, buildings, and facilities

  • Confirms the cardholder's military status and eligibility for privileges and benefits

  • Access to discounts and privileges from military exchanges and commissaries

  • Access to morale, welfare, and recreation services

  • Exclusive discounts from national retailers and businesses

  • A secure form of identification

  • Proof of length of service and military status

  • Unlimited access to military facilities

  • Discounts and privileges from retailers and businesses

  • Cards are susceptible to security risks like counterfeiting

  • The cards can become invalid if the service member leaves the military or retires

  • Carrying a physical card can be inconvenient and can be easily lost or stolen

A retired Marine was traveling in a foreign country and recognized a military installation. Upon arriving at the base, the retired Marine was unable to gain access because he did not have a valid CAC card. Fortunately, the retired Marine was able to retrieve his USID card from the local veterans" affairs office and gain access.

An active-duty Marine stationed in California was able to leverage his CAC card to access discounts and privileges on military exchanges and commissaries. The Marine was able to purchase items at a discounted price that would have otherwise been inaccessible.

Simply put, you need to go to a local Military Entrance Processing Station or a military installation and fill out the appropriate forms. Your status will determine which type of card you will be eligible for.

You'll typically need to provide proof of your military status, such as a DD-214 or a valid Active Duty or Retired ID card. You'll also need to fill out time-in-service paperwork, and may need to provide other identifying documents such as a passport or birth certificate.

Military ID cards are important documents that should be treated with care. When applying for one, it's important to ensure that all the paperwork is filled out correctly. Another common mistake people make is not updating their military status when it changes. This can result in an incorrect card being issued or your access to certain privileges and benefits being denied.

  • Ensure that all paperwork is filled out properly when applying for an ID card

  • Keep your card in a safe place and treat it with care

  • Keep your card up to date with any changes in military status

  • Secure your card with a pin or password

  • Be aware of the privileges and benefits associated with each card type

Military ID cards are an important form of identification and are necessary for members of the armed forces to access certain privileges and benefits. Whether you're active duty, reserve, or retired, it's important to understand the different types of military ID cards, the features and benefits, and the best practices for keeping your card safe and secure.

The Benefits of Ditching Your Traditional Credit Card for a Plastic One

Previous Page

How to Create Professional ID Cards for Your Business

Next Page