Can I Use My EAD Card as ID?
If you are one of the millions of individuals in the United States who holds an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, you may be wondering if you can use it as a form of identification. The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on the specific circumstances and the institution or entity that you are presenting your EAD card to.
An EAD card, commonly referred to as a work permit, is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to individuals who are authorized to work in the United States for a specific period of time. While the primary purpose of the EAD card is to provide proof of employment authorization, it can also be used as a form of identification in certain situations.
One common use of the EAD card as identification is when opening a bank account. Many banks and financial institutions accept EAD cards as a valid form of identification when verifying the identity of an individual who is applying for a new account. In this case, the EAD card serves as proof that the individual is legally allowed to work in the United States, which is an important factor for banks when establishing a customer relationship.
Another situation where the EAD card may be accepted as identification is when applying for a driver’s license or state identification card. While the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license vary from state to state, many states accept EAD cards as a primary form of identification when applying for a new license or ID card. In some cases, additional documentation may be required to verify the individual’s identity, but the EAD card can serve as the primary proof of legal presence in the country.
When it comes to traveling, the acceptance of an EAD card as identification can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the specific requirements of the transportation provider. For example, when traveling domestically by air, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires a valid form of government-issued identification for all passengers age 18 and older. While a driver’s license or passport is typically the preferred form of identification for air travel, an EAD card may be accepted as a secondary form of identification if the individual does not have a primary form available.
It is important to note that while the EAD card can be used as a form of identification in certain situations, it is not universally accepted as a valid form of ID. Some institutions or entities may have specific requirements for the type of identification they will accept, and in those cases, an EAD card may not meet their criteria. For example, some government agencies or employers may require a more secure form of identification, such as a U.S. passport or permanent resident card, for certain transactions or activities.
In conclusion, while the EAD card can be used as a form of identification in many cases, its acceptance may be limited depending on the specific circumstances. It is always best to check with the institution or entity you are dealing with to determine if an EAD card is an acceptable form of identification. Ultimately, having multiple forms of identification on hand, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card, is recommended to ensure that you have the appropriate documentation for any situation that may arise.
