The ID You'll Need
Most banks require a government-issued photo ID to open an account. The most common forms are a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some banks also accept a military ID or tribal ID. You'll need to bring the original document — a photocopy or photo on your phone usually won't work, though a few banks now allow you to photograph it during an online application.
If you don't have a photo ID yet, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles even if you don't drive. The process takes a few weeks and costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state. A passport takes longer but works at any bank in the country.
Banks verify your ID by scanning or photographing it during the account opening process. They're checking that the ID is real and that you match the photo. If you're opening an account online, the bank may ask you to take a selfie to confirm your identity.
Key Takeaways
- A government-issued photo ID — driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, or tribal ID — is required by nearly all banks to open an account.
- You must bring the original ID document; photocopies and phone photos are not accepted by most banks, though some online banks now allow photo verification.
- If you don't have a photo ID, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for $10 to $30.
- Banks scan or photograph your ID to verify it's genuine and that you match the photo; online banks may also ask for a selfie.
What Happens If Your ID Is Expired
An expired ID is usually still acceptable to open a bank account, as long as it's a government-issued document and the photo is clearly you. Banks are checking that the ID is real and that you haven't changed so much that they can't match your face to the photo — not whether the ID is currently valid for driving or travel.
However, some banks have their own policies and may refuse an expired ID if it expired more than a few years ago. Call the bank before you go in or start an online application to ask. If they won't accept it, renewing your ID at the DMV is faster than waiting for a passport.
Secondary Documents the Bank May Ask For
Beyond your photo ID, banks often ask for a second form of identification to confirm your address and reduce fraud. Common secondary documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent tax return — anything with your name and current address printed on it. A bank statement from another bank also works.
If you don't have a document with your address, some banks will accept a government-issued non-photo ID like a Social Security card, though this is less common. A few banks skip the secondary ID entirely if you're opening the account online and can verify your identity through other means, such as answering security questions based on your credit history.
Bring originals or clear copies. Digital photos of documents usually work for online applications, but ask the bank first.
Special Situations: No ID or Limited ID Options
If you don't have a government-issued photo ID and can't get one quickly, some banks and credit unions offer accounts for people without standard ID. These accounts may have lower limits on deposits and withdrawals, or require an in-person visit with a witness who can vouch for you. A few banks ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number if you're not a U.S. citizen.
Credit unions are often more flexible than large banks on ID requirements. If you're a member of a credit union or work for an employer that sponsors one, call and ask what they can do. Community banks and online banks that serve underbanked populations may also have workarounds.
If you're opening an account for a minor, the rules change — a parent or guardian must be present, and the minor's ID requirements vary by bank. Some banks require the minor to have their own ID; others don't.
What Happens During ID Verification
When you hand over your ID in person, the bank employee scans it or photographs both sides. That image goes into the bank's system. The bank then checks the ID against databases to confirm it's real — they're looking for signs of forgery and confirming the document number matches government records.
If you're opening an account online, you'll usually upload a photo of your ID or take a photo during the application. The bank uses automated software to read the document and extract your name, date of birth, and ID number. You may also be asked to take a selfie so the bank can compare your face to the photo on your ID.
This process is part of Know Your Customer (KYC) rules, which are federal requirements designed to prevent money laundering and fraud. It's not optional, and it's the same at every bank.
Timeline and Next Steps After ID Verification
If you're opening an account in person, verification usually happens on the spot. You'll walk out with a debit card or a temporary card number within minutes, and your account is ready to use immediately.
Online applications take longer. After you upload your ID, the bank's system reviews it automatically. If everything matches, you'll get confirmation within a few hours to a few days. If the photo is blurry or the bank needs more information, they'll email you and ask you to resubmit or provide additional documents.
Once your account is open, you can deposit money right away. If you're setting up direct deposit for paychecks, the bank will give you routing and account numbers during the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license?
Yes. A U.S. passport is a government-issued photo ID and is accepted by all banks. It works the same way as a driver's license — the bank scans it and verifies it's real. A passport is especially useful if you don't drive or don't have a state ID card.
What if my ID name doesn't match my current legal name?
Tell the bank before you open the account. If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, bring both your old ID and a document showing the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The bank will update your account to your current legal name.
Do I need an ID if I'm opening an account online?
Yes. Online banks still require a government-issued photo ID. You'll upload a photo of it or take a photo during the application process. Some online banks also ask for a selfie to confirm you match the ID photo.
Can someone else open an account for me if I don't have ID?
No. You must be present and provide your own ID. A family member or friend cannot open an account in your name. If you're a minor, a parent or guardian must be present, but you still need your own ID or birth certificate depending on the bank's rules.
What if my ID is damaged or hard to read?
Bring it anyway and let the bank know. If the photo is still visible and the document number is readable, most banks will accept it. If it's too damaged to scan or read, you'll need to renew it at the DMV before opening the account.