Yes, you can open a bank account with a permit, but the bank has to accept it

A permit counts as a valid government-issued photo ID at most banks, but not all of them. The bank's own policy determines whether they will take it. Some banks accept any state-issued photo ID including permits; others require a driver's license or passport specifically. Before you go in, call the bank's customer service line and ask directly: "Will you open an account for someone with a state permit as their only photo ID?" This takes two minutes and saves you a wasted trip.

The reason banks vary is that they set their own rules within federal anti-money-laundering requirements. The federal government requires banks to verify your identity, but does not dictate which documents may have access to. A permit satisfies that requirement at most institutions because it is state-issued, has your photo, and includes your address. However, some banks have internal policies that are stricter than the law requires.

If the bank you want to use will not take a permit, you have concrete alternatives. You do not need to wait for a driver's license or passport to arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your bank before visiting to confirm they accept a permit as photo ID, because policies vary by institution.
  • A state permit satisfies federal identity verification requirements, but individual banks can set stricter rules.
  • If your bank refuses a permit, you can open an account at a different bank, use a second form of ID alongside the permit, or explore online banks that have different verification processes.
  • Bring your permit, proof of address (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN to the appointment.

What documents to bring when you have a permit

Bring three things: your permit, a document showing your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN. The address document can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. The bank needs this because the permit shows your address, but they verify it independently.

If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. If you have neither, some banks will still open an account but may limit what you can do with it until you provide one later. Ask when you call whether they can proceed without it initially.

Do not assume the bank has your information on file. Bring originals or certified copies, not photos of documents. Banks have specific rules about what form documents must be in, and a photo usually does not meet them.

Banks that commonly accept permits

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank generally accept permits as valid photo ID. Credit unions often do as well, though policies vary by location and institution. Online banks like Chime, Ally, and Charles Schwab have different verification processes that may not require in-person ID at all—they verify your identity through your Social Security number, address, and other data instead.

Community banks and smaller regional banks vary widely. Some are more flexible than national chains; others are stricter. This is why calling ahead matters. Do not assume a bank's policy based on its size or type.

If you are a member of a credit union, start there. Credit unions tend to have more flexibility with ID requirements and may know you through your membership already.

What to do if a bank will not accept your permit

Your first option is to try a different bank. Call three or four banks in your area and ask the same question. At least one will say yes. You do not have to use the bank closest to your home or the one with the most advertising.

Your second option is to bring a second form of ID alongside the permit. This does not have to be a driver's license. A passport, passport card, state ID card (different from a permit), tribal ID, military ID, or even a school ID with your photo can work as supporting documentation. The bank may accept the combination of your permit plus one other form of ID even if they would not accept the permit alone.

Your third option is to open an account online. Many online banks do not require you to come in person or show physical ID. They verify your identity through your Social Security number, address history, and sometimes a video call. This process takes longer—usually a few business days—but it works for people without a driver's license or passport.

Timeline and what happens next

If you open an account in person with a permit, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will sign paperwork, choose your account type, and sometimes fund the account that day. Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to receive deposits before the card arrives.

If you open an account online, verification takes 1 to 3 business days. The bank will contact you if they need additional information. Once approved, you can use the account when ready through their app or website, though you may have to wait for a physical debit card.

Do not be surprised if the bank asks follow-up questions about your address or employment. This is standard anti-fraud procedure and does not mean they are denying you. Answer honestly and provide documents if they ask.

Permits that work and permits that do not

A state-issued permit with your photo works. This includes driver's permits, learner's permits, and state ID permits. A work permit, school ID, or temporary document usually does not count as sufficient on its own, though banks may accept it as supporting ID alongside another document.

If your permit is expired, most banks will still accept it as long as it is not more than a few years old and your photo is still recognizable. Call ahead to ask about your specific permit's age. Some banks have a hard cutoff; others use judgment.

If your permit is from another country, it may not work. US banks typically require US government-issued ID. If you have a foreign permit and no US ID yet, explain your situation when you call. Some banks have processes for recent immigrants or people in transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the bank ask why I have a permit instead of a driver's license?

Probably not. Banks see permits regularly and do not ask for explanations. If they do ask, you do not have to answer—it is not their business. They only care that the ID is valid and that you are who you say you are.

Can I open an account if my permit has a different address than where I live now?

Yes. Bring your permit and a current address document (utility bill, lease, or recent mail). The bank will update your address in their system. This is normal and happens all the time.

What if I lost my permit and do not have any photo ID?

You can still open an account, but it will be harder. Some online banks will work with you using your Social Security number and address history alone. For in-person accounts, call banks and explain your situation. A few will open an account with non-photo ID (passport card without a photo, birth certificate, or Social Security card) plus address verification, though this is less common.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account with a permit?

No. Most banks let you open a checking or savings account with zero dollars. Some offer better rates or features if you maintain a minimum balance, but that is optional. Ask about the bank's specific account types when you call.

Can I open a business account with a permit?

Business accounts have stricter requirements than personal accounts. Most banks will want a driver's license or passport for a business account, even if they accept a permit for personal accounts. Call the bank's business services line to ask. You may need to wait for a driver's license or use a different bank that has more flexible business account rules.