New VA ID cards available to veterans with honorable discharges
December 12, 2017
Veterans seeking an easier way to prove their military service will now be able to apply for a new identification card from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, some veterans are upset that the ID cards are available only to service members with honorable discharges.
A law passed in 2015 requires the VA to issue hard-copy photo IDs to honorably discharged veterans who apply. The card must display the veteran’s name, photo and an identification number.
The legislation was enacted to make it easier and safer for veterans to prove their military service when claiming benefits, as well as obtaining store and restaurant discounts. They can use the wallet-sized ID card instead of carrying a copy of their DD214. The certificate of discharge contains sensitive information such as Social Security numbers.
VA officials said veterans can register for a new ID card online and upload a photo. In order to complete the application process, they are required to provide some additional personal information and upload a copy of their driver’s license or other valid government photo ID. The VA will mail the ID cards directly to veterans.
While the introduction of ID cards has largely been welcomed, some veterans view the exclusion of those with bad paper discharges as a setback. They cited the government’s progress earlier this year when it issued policy changes to allow veterans with other-than-honorable discharges to upgrade their status and seek urgent mental health care.