What counts as a paper ID at banks
Most banks will not open an account with a paper ID alone. They need a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or similar document issued by a state or federal agency. A paper ID typically means a printed document without a photo, security features, or official government backing, which banks cannot verify.
Some banks may accept a combination of documents if you do not have a photo ID yet. This might include a birth certificate (paper), Social Security card (paper), utility bill, lease, or tax return alongside other identifying information. The bank's compliance officer decides what combination works, and policies vary widely by institution.
If you have a government-issued ID that is printed on paper rather than plastic—such as a passport or certain state IDs—that will work. The material does not matter; the government backing does.
Key Takeaways
- Banks require a government-issued photo ID, not just any paper document, to open an account.
- If you lack a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of documents like a birth certificate, utility bill, and Social Security card, but policies differ by bank.
- Getting a state ID card or passport takes weeks to months and costs money, but both are widely accepted at any bank.
- Credit unions and online banks sometimes have different document requirements than large national banks, so calling ahead saves a trip.
Why banks require photo identification
Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity before opening an account. This is part of the Know Your Customer (KYC) rule, enforced by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). A photo ID proves you are who you say you are and helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and identity theft.
A paper document without a photo or security features cannot be verified the same way. A birth certificate or utility bill proves you exist and have an address, but not that you are the person holding the document. Banks need to match your face to your name and date of birth.
What to do if you have no photo ID
If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, your first step is to get one. A state ID card (not a driver's license) is the fastest option for most people. You apply at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent office. The cost ranges from $10 to $50 depending on your state, and processing takes two to four weeks for standard service.
A passport takes longer—four to six weeks for routine service, or two to three weeks for expedited service (which costs extra). The application fee is $130 for a passport book. You apply at a post office, courthouse, or passport acceptance facility.
While you wait for your ID to arrive, some banks will let you open an account with a combination of documents. Call your bank's customer service line and ask what they accept without a photo ID. Have ready: your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and any documents you do have (birth certificate, utility bill, lease, tax return). Do not go in person without calling first—you may be turned away.
Banks and credit unions with different policies
Large national banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank) almost always require a photo ID and will not make exceptions. Their systems are automated and their compliance teams are strict.
Credit unions and smaller regional banks sometimes have more flexibility. They may accept a combination of documents or know you personally if you are a member of their community. Call ahead and ask what they need. If you are opening an account online, the bank's website usually lists required documents, but calling the customer service number often reveals options the website does not mention.
Online banks (Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover) typically require a photo ID for account opening because they cannot verify you in person. However, some online banks allow you to upload a photo of your ID rather than presenting it physically, which may work if your ID is damaged or expired.
Getting a temporary or expedited ID
If you need an ID quickly, ask your state's DMV about expedited processing. Most states offer it for an extra fee—usually $10 to $25 on top of the regular ID cost. Processing time drops from weeks to days in some cases.
Some states issue a temporary paper ID on the spot when you apply for a state ID card. This temporary ID is valid for 30 to 60 days and may be accepted by some banks while you wait for the permanent card. Call your DMV before you go to ask whether they issue temporary IDs and whether banks in your area accept them.
If you are in an urgent situation—such as needing to deposit a paycheck or set up direct deposit for work—ask your employer or the bank whether they have a workaround. Some employers can deposit to a prepaid card or hold your check until you have an account. Some banks will let you open an account with a temporary ID if you return with the permanent one within 30 days.
What happens if you open an account without proper ID
Do not attempt to open a bank account using false documents or someone else's ID. Banks verify documents against government databases, and discrepancies trigger a freeze or closure of the account. You may also face criminal charges for fraud or identity theft.
If you open an account with incomplete or unverified documents, the bank may close it later when they discover the problem. Any money in the account will be held while they investigate, and you will not be able to access it for weeks or months. This is worse than waiting to open the account properly in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a birth certificate and Social Security card instead of a photo ID?
Some banks will accept this combination, but it depends on the bank. Call ahead and ask. Most large national banks will not; smaller banks and credit unions are more likely to. You will also need to provide your current address, usually with a utility bill or lease.
What if my state ID or passport is expired?
An expired photo ID is usually still accepted for account opening because it still proves who you are. The bank is verifying your identity, not your driving privileges. Bring it along with another document showing your current address.
Can I use a tribal ID or military ID to open a bank account?
Yes. Tribal IDs issued by federally recognized tribes and military IDs are both government-issued photo IDs and are widely accepted by banks. Bring them the same way you would bring a driver's license or passport.
How long does it take to get a state ID card?
Standard processing takes two to four weeks depending on your state. Expedited processing (available in most states for an extra fee) takes three to seven business days. Some DMVs issue a temporary paper ID on the spot that is valid for 30 to 60 days.
Can I open a bank account online without a photo ID?
Most online banks require a photo ID, but some allow you to upload a photo or scan of your ID instead of presenting it in person. A few online banks accept a combination of documents. Check the bank's website or call customer service to ask what they accept.