Veteran ID Card vs Military ID Card
Here is a quick guide on how to get your Veteran ID Card.
First, it’s important to mention that a Veteran ID Card is not a Military ID. There have been a few emails I have received where Veterans have been frustrated by not finding a path to get their Military ID after they leave the military.
Technically your previous Military ID should have been turned in and destroyed by your unit on your last day in service. It is the photo ID you used during your time in the military and usually has a smart chip and is often referred to as your CAC (Common Access Card).
A military ID Card looks like this:
This card is issued to servicemembers, government contractors, and retired military personnel.
Veteran ID Cards
A Veteran’s ID Card, on the other hand, is issued by The Department of Veterans Affairs and can be used to receive Veterans benefits as well as discounts that honor veterans instead of having a DD214 with you at all times.
A Veteran’s Medical Benefits ID Card can also be used in most circumstances if you need to verify that you’re a veteran.
Here is a link to apply for your Veteran’s ID Card through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic/
*NOTE: As of September 2022, all new Veteran ID Cards are digital.
STEP-by-step tutorial
Login.Gov
You will need a Login.gov account or ID.me to use the VA Services online.
I made a step by step video on how to sign up for Login.gov and/or an ID.me on our Youtube channel if you need any help in setting those up.
