How do I obtain my Veteran ID?
The steps for obtaining a digital* veteran ID Card are listed at the VA website: https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic/
*All new veteran ID cards from the VA are digital as of September 2022
You will need an ID.me or Login.gov account to access VA services.
I prefer ID.me because it connects to other organizations like Home Depot, Lowes, etc.
If you don’t want a digital ID there are still a few methods of obtaining a physical ID that designates your status as a veteran.
You can get a “Veteran” designation on your State ID or Driver’s License. It is usually for a slight fee but you’ll have to check your state’s DOT or DMV for details.
Also, you can use a VA medical benefits ID for most discounts and do not need to apply for anything more if you already have one.
Places that offer discounts should except your medical ID but recently I have found that more places are moving toward digital verification through ID.me through their member services such as Home Depot, Target, etc.
If you have any other questions and would like to ask the VA directly, email them at:
vetidcard@va.gov
Veteran ID Card vs Military ID Card
Before closing out this article it is also 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 if you are not retiring. 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 during their military service, government contractors, and retired military personnel.
For Those Who Do Better With Visual Guidance This Video Is For You
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.
