Veteran ID Cards & Discounts Guide
Everything you need to know about proving your veteran status and saving money with military discounts at hundreds of businesses nationwide.
Types of Veteran ID
VA Health Identification Card (VHIC)
The VHIC is issued to veterans enrolled in VA healthcare. It serves as proof of veteran status and is accepted at most retailers offering military discounts. The card includes your photo and can be used at VA facilities for check-in. This is the most widely available free veteran ID card.
How to Get It
Enroll in VA healthcare, then request the card at any VA medical center or through your VA healthcare team. There is no charge.
Veteran Health Identification Card vs. Veteran ID Card (VIC)
The VA previously offered a separate Veteran ID Card (VIC) through vets.gov, but that program was discontinued. The VHIC and state-issued veteran driver's licenses now serve as the primary forms of veteran identification. If you already have a VIC, it remains valid for proving veteran status.
How to Get It
The standalone VIC program has been discontinued. Veterans should use the VHIC (if enrolled in VA healthcare) or get a veteran designation on their state driver's license instead.
Department of Defense ID Card (DD Form 2)
The DoD Uniformed Services ID Card is issued to military retirees (20+ years of service or medically retired) and veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating. This card provides access to military installations, commissaries, exchanges, and MWR facilities. It is the gold standard for military identification.
How to Get It
Visit a RAPIDS/ID card office on a military installation. You'll need your DD-214 and two forms of government-issued ID. Schedule an appointment through the ID Card Office Locator at DMDC.
State Veteran Designation on Driver's License
Most states now offer a veteran designation on driver's licenses or state ID cards. This is one of the easiest ways to prove veteran status for everyday discounts since you already carry your license. Some states require an honorable discharge; others accept general discharges. Check your state's DMV website for specific requirements.
How to Get It
Visit your state DMV with your DD-214 (Member-4 copy). Most states add a "VETERAN" designation to your license for free or a small fee. Requirements vary by state.
Veteran Designation on Passport
There is currently no option to add a veteran designation to a U.S. passport. While this has been proposed in legislation over the years, it has not been implemented. Veterans traveling internationally should carry a separate form of military ID if needed.
How to Get It
Not currently available. The U.S. State Department does not offer a veteran designation on passports at this time.
VA.gov Digital Veteran ID
The VA mobile app includes a digital Veteran ID card on your phone that displays your photo, name, and veteran status. This is convenient for showing proof of service at stores and restaurants without carrying a physical card. Requires a verified VA.gov account.
How to Get It
Download the VA: Health and Benefits mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. Sign in with your VA.gov account (Login.gov or ID.me credentials). Your digital Veteran ID card is available under your profile.
How to Prove Veteran Status Without an ID Card
If you don't have a veteran ID card yet, these documents can serve as proof of military service:
DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
Your DD-214 is the definitive proof of military service. The Member-4 copy is the version recommended for civilian use as it contains less sensitive information. Keep a copy in a safe place and consider storing a digital copy on your phone. You can request a replacement through the National Archives.
VA Benefits Letter (Proof of Service Letter)
Available through VA.gov, this letter confirms your veteran status, disability rating, and benefit entitlements. You can download and print it at any time. Many businesses accept this as proof of service.
Military Service Records
Your Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) and other service records can verify your veteran status. These can be requested through the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) using Standard Form 180 or online through eVetRecs.
Verified Retail & Restaurant Discounts
The following discounts have been verified as of 2024. Discounts may change without notice — always confirm with the business before making a purchase decision.
Home Improvement
Restaurants
Retail & Apparel
Auto & Insurance
Travel
Tech & Wireless
Entertainment
Groceries & Warehouse
How to Access Military Discounts
ID.me Verification
ID.me is the most widely used military verification platform. Create a free account, verify your military status once, and use it at hundreds of retailers including Nike, Under Armour, The North Face, T-Mobile, and more. Works for online purchases and can be shown in-store via the ID.me app.
SheerID Verification
SheerID is used by retailers like Adidas, Spotify, YouTube Premium, and others. Verification is typically done directly on the retailer's website during checkout. You may need to upload documentation if automatic verification fails.
In-Store Verification
For brick-and-mortar shopping, show any valid military ID at the register: CAC (active duty), DD Form 2 (retirees), VHIC, veteran driver's license, or DD-214. Most cashiers are trained to recognize these documents. If a cashier is unsure, politely ask for a manager.
Online: Retailer Military Program Pages
Many retailers have dedicated military discount pages on their websites. Look for links like "Military Discount," "Heroes Program," or "Military Appreciation" in the website footer. Register once and the discount is applied automatically to future purchases.
Tips for Maximizing Your Savings
- ●
Always ask. Many stores and restaurants offer military discounts that aren't advertised on signs or websites. A quick "Do you offer a military discount?" at the register can save you 5–20% on almost anything.
- ●
Plan for Veterans Day. Dozens of restaurants offer free meals on November 11th. Make a list ahead of time and take advantage of multiple offers throughout the day.
- ●
Stack with sales. Some military discounts can be combined with regular sale prices or promotions. Always check if stacking is allowed before assuming discounts are mutually exclusive.
- ●
Keep proof of service handy. Store a photo of your DD-214, VA card, or veteran driver's license on your phone. Set up ID.me and SheerID accounts for instant online verification. You never know when you'll encounter a discount opportunity.
Looking for more veteran resources?
Check out our other tools to help you navigate benefits, track claims, and plan your transition.
Browse All Tools