Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Overview
The Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) is available to veterans after they've applied for and been approved for VA healthcare. It serves multiple purposes beyond medical appointments.
Pro Tip: The Veteran Health ID Card gets you in the door at VA facilities and scores you discounts at random places. It's free. Get one.
Benefits of the VHIC
- Faster Check-ins: Enables quicker appointment registration via self-help kiosks at VA medical centers
- Veteran Discounts: Proves veteran status for discounts at retail businesses and restaurants
- Military Installation Access: "Service connected" status allows access to military commissaries, exchanges, and MWR privileges
- REAL ID Compliance: Serves as an acceptable form of identification for TSA travel screening
Critical Limitations
The card is not a credit card or insurance card and does not pay copays or authorize non-VA facility care.
How to Obtain a VHIC
Online Method
- Visit the VA's online portal
- Upload a color photo meeting these requirements:
- Taken within 6 months
- White/off-white background
- Eyes open, hair not covering eyes or ears
- Full front face view (no hats, coverings, or glasses)
-
Cropped square from shoulders up
-
Upload valid government photo ID showing name, address, and DOB
- Address on ID must match VA records (update at va.gov if needed)
- File formats: .jpeg, .png, .bmp, .gif, or .tiff
In-Person Method
- Schedule appointment with your nearest VA medical center's enrollment coordinator
- Bring valid government photo ID with current address
- If ID doesn't show current address, bring supplementary proof (utility bill, voter registration, etc.)
Processing Timeline
- US residents: Approximately 2 weeks
- Overseas residents: Potentially over one month
Military Installation Access Notes
- Visit visitor center first for registration
- Installation access varies per facility
- Can sponsor visitors (may require passes); some bases restrict sponsorship to VA-recognized caregivers only
- Overseas base access depends on base commander discretion and SOFA agreements
Frequently Asked Questions
Card Replacement: Request replacements online for lost, stolen, or expired cards
Service Connection Updates: Obtain new card when gaining service-connected status to access military facilities
Rating Increases: No new card needed for disability rating increases
100% Disabled Status: Consider applying for the separate Disabled American Veterans (DAV) ID for additional benefits
Contact Information
- Online Request Issues: Call 877-222-8387
- In-Person Issues: Contact your specific VAMC