Enrolling in VA health care is the first step to obtaining your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC). If you haven’t enrolled yet, you can easily apply to start the process.
Find out how to apply for VA health care
Once you’ve completed your VA health care welcome call, you’re eligible to apply for a VHIC. You can apply either in person at a VA medical center or conveniently online.
Important Note: To avoid delays, please submit your card request only once, either through the online portal or in person. Duplicate requests will slow down the process.
Applying In Person for Your VHIC
For those who prefer an in-person application, the process is straightforward:
- Visit your local VA medical center: Contact the nearest VA medical center and ask to speak with the enrollment coordinator.
- Schedule a photo appointment: Request the coordinator’s assistance in scheduling an appointment to have your picture taken for the new Veteran Health Identification Card.
Find a VA medical center near you
Alternatively, you can inquire about getting your photo taken during your next scheduled VA health care appointment for added convenience.
Required Identification for Your Photo Appointment
When you go for your photo appointment, ensure you bring a current, unexpired form of identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- State-issued driver’s license, or
- U.S. passport, or
- Government-issued photo ID (federal, state, or local) that clearly displays your name, address, and date of birth.
Important: If your presented ID does not include your current address, you will need to provide a separate document to verify your address. Acceptable address verification documents can be an electric bill, cable bill, voter registration card, or any other official mailed document addressed to you.
Applying Online for Your VHIC
The online application process offers a convenient alternative for obtaining your VHIC:
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Access AccessVA: Sign in to AccessVA to initiate your VHIC request online. You will need an existing account with one of the following: Login.gov, ID.me, DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or a Department of Defense Common Access Card (CAC).
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Account Creation (if needed): If you do not currently have any of the listed accounts, you can easily create one. Simply follow the registration instructions provided on the sign-in page for your chosen sign-in partner.
Note for International Applicants: Veterans residing outside the United States who lack the accounts mentioned above will need to create an ID.me account to verify their identity and proceed with the online application.
Learn how to verify your identity if you live outside the U.S.
A hand holding a Veteran Health Identification Card, showcasing the card’s design and features.
