Identity document

Identity document is a piece of documentation designed to prove the identity of the person carrying it. This type of document is commonly used in many different contexts, including travel, banking, and law enforcement.

Definition

An Identity document (also known as an Identity card, ID card, Identification card, or simply ID) is any document which may be used to prove a person's identity. If issued in a small, standard credit card size form, it is usually called an identity card (IC, ID card, citizen card), or passport card. Some countries issue formal identity documents, as national identification cards which may be compulsory or non-compulsory, while others may require identity verification using regional identification or informal documents. When the identity document incorporates a person's photograph, it may be called photo ID.

Types of Identity Documents

There are several types of identity documents used around the world, including:

• Passport: A passport is a travel document, usually issued by a country's government to its citizens, that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder primarily for the purpose of international travel.

• Driver's license: A driver's license is an official document, often plastic and the size of a credit card, permitting a specific individual to operate one or more types of motorized vehicles, such as a motorcycle, car, truck, or bus, on a public road.

• Birth certificate: A birth certificate is a vital record that documents the birth of a child. The term "birth certificate" can refer to either the original document certifying the circumstances of the birth or to a certified copy of or representation of the ensuing registration of that birth.

• Social Security card: In the United States, a Social Security card is a wallet-sized card issued by the Social Security Administration to all citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents. The card contains a unique number, the Social Security number, which is used for a variety of identification purposes.

Uses of Identity Documents

Identity documents are used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Travel: Passports and other forms of identification are often required for international travel.

• Banking: Banks often require identification to open an account or conduct transactions.

• Law enforcement: Police and other law enforcement agencies often require identification during interactions with the public.

See also

• National identification number
• Biometric passport
• Identity theft
• Identity documents in the United States
• Identity documents of the European Union