What you can do without a photo ID

Yes, you can open a bank account online without a photo ID, but the path depends on which bank you choose and what documents you have instead. Most large banks require photo ID because federal law (the Bank Secrecy Act) requires them to verify your identity before opening an account. However, some banks and credit unions have workarounds: they may accept a combination of non-photo documents, use alternative verification methods, or let you complete the account opening online and verify your identity in person at a branch later.

The most realistic option is to find a bank that accepts alternative documents—typically a Social Security number, date of birth, address verification, and a secondary document like a utility bill, bank statement, or government letter. A smaller number of banks will open an account online with limited information and ask you to bring photo ID to a branch within a set timeframe (usually 30 days) to complete verification. This second route works only if you have a branch near you.

Online-only banks (those with no physical branches) almost always require photo ID because they have no way to verify you in person. If you do not have photo ID and cannot visit a branch, an online-only bank is not an option.

Key Takeaways

  • Banks with physical branches sometimes let you open an account online with non-photo documents and verify your identity in person within 30 days.
  • Federal law requires banks to verify your identity, so you will need either a photo ID or a combination of other documents like a utility bill and Social Security number.
  • Online-only banks almost always require photo ID because they cannot verify you in person.
  • Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks about which documents they accept, so calling ahead can save you time.
  • If you have no documents at all, you may need to visit a branch in person and bring whatever identification you do have so staff can assess your options.

Banks that accept non-photo documents online

Some regional and community banks will open accounts with documents other than photo ID. The specific documents they accept vary, but common alternatives include a Social Security card, birth certificate, utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government-issued letter (such as a tax return or benefits notice). You typically need at least two of these, plus your Social Security number and current address.

Before you start an process, call the bank's customer service line and ask directly: "Can I open an account online without a photo ID, and if so, what documents do you accept?" This takes five minutes and tells you whether that bank will work for you. Do not assume based on their website—policies vary by branch and by account type, and a phone call is the only way to know for certain.

Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than national banks. If you are a member of a credit union or are may be able to access to join one (through your employer, a family member, or your geographic area), contact them first. They may have more lenient document requirements and may be willing to work with you over the phone.

Opening an account online and verifying in person later

Some banks let you complete the online process with minimal information and then verify your identity in person at a branch within 30 days. During this window, your account is usually open and functional—you can receive direct deposits and make transfers—but you may not be able to withdraw cash or use a debit card until verification is complete.

This route works only if you have a bank branch within reasonable distance and can visit within the important date. When you go to the branch, bring whatever photo ID you have, even if it is expired or from another country. Bring a second document as well (utility bill, lease, bank statement) to strengthen your identity verification. The branch staff will photograph your ID and may ask questions about your address and recent transactions.

Ask the bank before you explore whether this option is available for your account type. Checking and savings accounts are usually may be able to access, but some specialty accounts (business accounts, high-yield savings) may require photo ID upfront.

What counts as photo ID for banks

Banks accept a narrower range of photo ID than you might expect. A driver's license or state ID card is standard. A passport (U.S. or foreign) is accepted by most banks. Military ID, tribal ID, and permanent resident cards are usually accepted. An expired ID is often acceptable if the photo is still recognizable and the expiration is recent (within the last few years).

A school ID, work badge, or library card—even with a photo—is usually not accepted because banks need government-issued ID. A birth certificate has no photo and is not photo ID, even though it is a government document. A Social Security card has no photo and is not photo ID.

If you have a passport from another country, most banks will accept it. If your only ID is a foreign driver's license, call ahead to ask whether that specific bank accepts it, because policies vary.

If you have no documents at all

If you have no photo ID and no secondary documents (no utility bills, no lease, no bank statements), you will need to visit a branch in person. Bring whatever you do have—a Social Security card, a birth certificate, mail addressed to you, anything that shows your name and address. The branch staff can assess what you have and may be able to open an account on the spot or tell you what additional steps are needed.

This is a situation where calling ahead is especially important. Explain to the branch manager what documents you have and ask what they can work with. Some branches have more flexibility than others, and a manager may be able to override standard requirements if you are willing to come in person.

If you are experiencing homelessness or do not have a permanent address, some banks and credit unions have programs specifically for this situation. Ask whether the bank offers accounts for people without a fixed address, or contact a local nonprofit that works with unhoused populations—they often know which banks in your area are most accommodating.

Why banks require ID and what happens if you cannot provide it

The Bank Secrecy Act requires all banks to verify the identity of anyone opening an account. This is a federal requirement, not a bank choice. Banks that do not verify identity face heavy fines and can lose their charter. This is why no legitimate bank will open an account without some form of identity verification.

If you cannot provide any form of ID—not even a Social Security number—you may not be able to open a traditional bank account. In this case, you have a few alternatives: a prepaid card (which requires less verification), a money services store that offers check cashing and bill pay, or a credit union that serves people without traditional ID (these exist in some areas). These are not ideal long-term solutions, but they can help you manage money while you work on getting an ID.

Getting a photo ID if you do not have one

If you need a photo ID to open a bank account, your state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) can issue a state ID card even if you do not drive. This usually costs between $15 and $50 and requires proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of address (utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return). The process takes a few weeks in most states.

If you cannot afford the fee, some states waive or reduce the cost for people with low income. Call your state DMV and ask about fee waivers. If you do not have a birth certificate, your state's vital records office can issue one, usually for $10 to $30.

If you are experiencing homelessness, some nonprofits help people get ID for free. Search "[your city] homeless services ID help" or contact your local 211 line to find organizations near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license?

Yes. A U.S. or foreign passport is accepted by virtually all banks as photo ID. If a passport is your only photo ID, you can open an account online at most banks without any problem.

What if my ID is expired?

Most banks accept expired ID if it is not too old (usually within five to ten years) and the photo is still clearly recognizable. Call the bank before you explore and ask about their specific policy on expired ID. If they say no, you may still be able to open an account in person at a branch, where a staff member can assess the ID and use other documents to verify your identity.

Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?

Almost all banks require a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, ask the bank whether they accept an alternative form of tax identification. Some banks will work with you if you are in the process of getting an ITIN.

Can I open an account at an online-only bank without photo ID?

No. Online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Chime) require photo ID because they have no physical branches where they can verify you in person. If you do not have photo ID, you will need to use a bank with a physical branch.

How long does it take to open an account if I verify in person?

The online part takes 10 to 20 minutes. Once you submit, you can usually use the account for transfers and direct deposits within a few hours. The in-person verification at a branch takes about 15 minutes and can happen any time within the 30-day window. After verification, you can use your debit card and withdraw cash when ready.