The ID requirement depends on which bank you choose, but most ask for one government-issued photo ID

Most banks will ask you to provide at least one form of government-issued photo identification when you open a checking account online. The most common choices are a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some banks accept a tribal ID or military ID. A few banks may ask for a second form of ID — often something without a photo, like a Social Security card or utility bill — but this is less common for online accounts.

The reason banks ask for ID is federal law. The Bank Secrecy Act requires banks to verify who you are before opening an account. This protects both you and the bank from fraud and money laundering. When you explore online, the bank uses your ID information to check your identity against databases. If you're opening an account in person at a branch, you'll hand the ID to the banker, who will look at it and copy the information.

The process is faster if your ID matches the name and address you give the bank. If you've recently moved or changed your name, bring documentation of that change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your ID.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID like a driver's license, state ID, or passport is the standard requirement for opening an online checking account.
  • Banks ask for ID because federal law requires them to verify your identity before opening any account.
  • If your ID doesn't match the name or address you're providing, bring proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
  • Some banks may ask for a second form of ID without a photo, though this is uncommon for online applications.
  • If you don't have a government-issued photo ID, ask the bank whether they accept alternatives like a tribal ID or military ID.

What counts as government-issued photo ID

A driver's license is the most widely accepted form of ID. If you don't drive, a state ID card — issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles — works just as well and serves the same purpose. Both have your photo, signature, and date of birth printed on them, which is what banks need to verify.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works. Military ID cards are accepted by most banks. Some banks accept tribal IDs issued by federally recognized Native American tribes. If you're not a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident card (green card) or employment authorization document (EAD) may work, though you should call the bank first to confirm.

The ID needs to be current — not expired. Banks will not accept an expired ID, even if it's only expired by a few months. If your ID is expired, you'll need to renew it before opening the account.

What to do if you don't have a photo ID

If you don't have a government-issued photo ID, you have options. The first step is to contact the bank directly and ask what alternatives they accept. Some banks will work with you using a combination of documents — for example, a Social Security card plus a utility bill plus a birth certificate. Other banks may require you to come into a branch in person so a banker can verify your identity face-to-face.

If you need to get a photo ID, your state's Department of Motor Vehicles can issue a state ID card even if you don't have a driver's license. You'll need to bring proof of identity (like a birth certificate), proof of your current address (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (like a Social Security card or tax return). The process usually takes a few weeks, and there is a fee, which varies by state.

Some community organizations and legal aid groups help people get ID documents for free or at low cost. You can search for "free ID near me" or contact your local legal aid office to find out whether this service is available in your area.

How banks verify your ID online

When you explore for a checking account online, the bank uses a process called identity verification. You'll enter your ID information — your name, date of birth, ID number, and the state that issued it — into the process. The bank then checks this information against databases to confirm it matches a real ID and that the ID hasn't been reported as stolen or fraudulent.

Some banks use additional verification steps. They may ask you security questions based on your credit history or public records — for example, "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "What was the name of your first pet?" These questions are designed so that only you can answer them correctly. If you answer them wrong, the bank may ask you to come into a branch or send additional documents.

The whole process usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. Some banks approve you when ready; others may take a day or two while they complete their checks. You'll receive an email or text message confirming whether your account has been opened.

What happens if the bank can't verify your identity

If the bank's verification process fails, they will contact you to ask for more information. This might mean uploading a photo of your ID, answering additional security questions, or providing documents that prove your address. Some banks will ask you to visit a branch in person so a banker can look at your ID directly.

Verification can fail for several reasons. Your ID information might not match what the bank found in their databases — for example, if you recently moved and the address on your ID is outdated. Your name might be spelled differently on different documents. There might be a data entry error in the process. None of these are your fault, and the bank can usually resolve them once you provide clarification.

In rare cases, a bank may decline to open an account if they cannot verify your identity after multiple attempts. If this happens, you can try a different bank. Different banks use different verification databases and processes, so one bank's system might work better with your documents than another's.

ID requirements for joint accounts

If you're opening a joint checking account with another person, both of you will need to provide ID. Each person will need to verify their identity separately during the process process. Some banks allow both people to explore online together; others require the second person to come into a branch or complete a separate online process.

Make sure both people have their ID information ready before you start the process. If one person's verification fails, it can delay the entire account opening. Some banks will open the account in one person's name first and add the second person later, once their identity is verified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID to open an online checking account?

No. Banks require a current, non-expired ID. If your ID is expired, you'll need to renew it first. Renewing a driver's license or state ID usually takes a few weeks and can be done at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, often online or by mail.

What if my name on my ID doesn't match the name I want to use for the account?

Use the name that appears on your ID. If you've recently changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring documentation of that change along with your ID. The bank can update your account name once they see the legal paperwork.

Do I need to provide my Social Security number to open an online checking account?

Yes, most banks will ask for your Social Security number as part of the process. They use it to verify your identity and to check your banking history. If you don't have a Social Security number, ask the bank whether they have an alternative process for non-citizens.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf using my ID?

No. Banks require the person whose name is on the account to verify their own identity. This is a security measure to prevent fraud. You must be the one to provide your ID information and answer the verification questions.

What if I'm opening an account as a minor?

Most banks require a parent or guardian to open an account for someone under 18. Both the minor and the adult will need to provide ID. Some banks have special youth accounts with different rules, so ask the bank about their requirements for minors.