What Does a Veterans ID Card Look Like?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a Veterans ID Card (VIC) to military veterans, which is a valuable form of identification. The card is issued at no cost to the veteran and serves as proof of military service. In this article, we will dive into the details of the Veterans ID Card, what it looks like, and what benefits it offers.
Design and Layout of the VIC
The VIC is a plastic card with a photo of the veteran on it. The card is approximately the size of a standard credit card. Here is an overview of what you can expect to see on the front and back of the card:
Front Side:
- The Veterans ID Card features the United States Department of Veterans Affairs seal
- Your name as listed in your military records
- Your Social Security number
- Your photo
Back Side:
- Card number: a unique identification number
- Your military discharge date
- Your service branch
- A statement confirming you are a veteran of the United States Armed Forces
- A unique Universal Identification Code (UIC)
Types of Veterans ID Cards
The VA offers two types of Veterans ID Cards: one for honorably discharged veterans and another for active duty personnel.
Type 1: Honorably Discharged Veterans
This card is available to veterans who have been honorably discharged from the military. It is valid for the duration of their life.
Type 2: Active Duty Personnel
This card is available to active duty personnel and is valid until the date of their anticipated separation or retirement from the military.
How to Apply for a Veterans ID Card
To apply for a Veterans ID Card, you can follow these steps:
- Fill out VA Form 40-1328: Download the form from the VA’s website or pick one up at your local VA benefits office.
- Submit your form: Take the completed form to your local VA benefits office or mail it to the VA for processing.
- Proof of service: Provide original military records, including your DD Form 214, which is your certificate of release or discharge.
Benefits of a Veterans ID Card
A Veterans ID Card offers several benefits, including:
- Identification: The card is a government-issued identification that can be used at various institutions, such as banks, businesses, and government offices.
- Proof of military service: The card provides proof of your military service, which can be beneficial when applying for benefits, government services, or seeking support from other veterans.
- Ease of use: The card is accepted as proof of identity at numerous institutions, making it convenient for veterans to use when accessing various services.
How to Use Your Veterans ID Card
You can use your Veterans ID Card to:
- Identify yourself: Show the card when needed to verify your identity and military service.
- Access benefits: Use the card to obtain benefits and services offered by the VA, such as healthcare, education, and employment services.
- Seek support: Present the card to other veterans and veteran organizations to show solidarity and access support networks.
- Travel: Bring the card when traveling within the United States or internationally to verify your military status and benefits.
Security and Maintenance
To maintain the security and integrity of the Veterans ID Card:
- Keep your card safe: Store your card in a secure location and do not share it with anyone.
- Notify the VA of changes: If you experience any changes in your personal information or address, notify the VA to update your records.
Conclusion
The Veterans ID Card is an invaluable identification document that provides evidence of a veteran’s military service. With its compact design and secure features, the card is an effective way to verify your military status and access various benefits and services. Whether you are a honorably discharged veteran or an active duty personnel, the Veterans ID Card is an important asset to carry with you.
Summary Table
Here is a summary of what you need to know about the Veterans ID Card:
| Front Side | Back Side | How to Apply | Benefits | Security and Maintenance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Your name (as listed in military records) | VA Form 40-1328 | Identification, proof of military service, ease of use | Keep your card safe, notify VA of changes | |
| SSN | Social Security number | ||||
| Photo | Your photo | ||||
| Type | Honorably discharged veterans (Type 1), active duty personnel (Type 2) | ||||
| Card number | Card number (unique ID number) | ||||
| Discharge date | Military discharge date | ||||
| Service branch | Service branch | ||||
| Unique identifier | Universal Identification Code (UIC) |
Call to Action
If you are a veteran and eligible for a Veterans ID Card, do not hesitate to apply. The card offers numerous benefits and is an essential document to carry with you at all times. Visit the VA’s website or your local VA benefits office to learn more and apply today!
