ID Card – all you need to know in one place

In many European countries having an ID card is mandatory. However, in the United Kingdom, there are no such cards since 2011. But are there any chances not to carry your driving license or passport all the time? What is a citizen card? Read further and get the answers!

uk id card

What is a citizen card?

A citizen card is not an obligatory document. It can prove your age or serve in other ways in many situations. It is issued for three years, until the end of the month it is print on. Here is an example:

You applied for a citizen card and it was issued on 12th January 2022. Your card will expire on 31st January 2025.

A citizen card allows you not to take your:

  • driving license or
  • passport

and therefore reduces the risk of losing it unwillingly.

Where to use a citizen card?

A citizen card is a great choice if you:

  • travel around the United Kingdom
  • apply for a driving license
  • buy or rent a house
  • start working
  • enter a club (proof of age).

These are just a few examples where you can use your ID card. It is widely recognised around the UK, so in many cases you will be able to prove your age and name much easier.

UK citizen

How to get a citizen card?

Depending on if it is your:

  • first card
  • next card

there are other ways of obtaining it. What they have in common is that you can apply for the card online and you have to pay for it. You will get it by post.

If it is your first card, you will have to upload your actual passport photo. If you want to know how to take it properly, have a look at this site.

Learn more: