Identity cards: an introduction
The identity card offers a convenient way to prove your identity in everyday situations. It can even be used like a passport if you travel within the European Economic Area or Switzerland. Find out if you qualify for a card, and how to apply.
If you lose your identity card, call the ID card advice line (0300 330 0000) to cancel it. To get a replacement card, visit ID Smart
To be eligible to apply for an identity card you must be at least 16 years old and hold a UK passport that was valid on or after 1 January 2009.
You must also fit into one of the following groups:
From 2012, every British citizen who is at least 16 years old living in the UK will be able to apply for an identity card.
How to apply for your card
There are identity card centres in London, Manchester, Liverpool and Blackburn. You will need to make an appointment at one of these centres to apply for a card.
Use the links below to find the card centre nearest to you.
This year the identity card costs £30.
By using biometric information (such as a photo) to prove your identity, an ID card makes it harder for people to create false identities.
Your identity card can be used to prove who you are in all kinds of situations, such as:
There are three different types of identity card:
The identity card for British citizens
This card is light purple and light pink in colour. The card holder's British nationality is listed clearly; this card can be used for travel within the European Economic Area and Switzerland.
The card is now available to British citizens who live or work in the north west of England.
The identification card for EEA nationals
This card is turquoise and green and does not list the card holder's nationality.
This card can only be used to prove who you are; it is not a travel document.
The identity card for foreign nationals
This card is printed on a pink and blue background.
It shows your immigration status and is also a residence permit, but it can't be used as a travel document.
No bigger than a credit card and easy to carry around, the identity card will be convenient and portable
Your card will carry the following information about you:
Follow the link below to see some pictures of what ID cards look like.
Your card will have a number of security features to make it safer from fraudsters.
These features include:
Provided by the Identity and Passport Service