What counts as temporary ID at banks

Yes, you can open a bank account with a temporary ID, but the bank has to accept it as valid government-issued identification. A temporary ID is usually a paper document issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles while you wait for a permanent driver's license or ID card. Some banks treat it the same as a permanent ID; others require additional documents to confirm your identity.

The key difference is that temporary IDs have expiration dates—often 30 to 180 days depending on your state—and banks verify that the document hasn't expired yet. If your temporary ID is still valid, most major banks and credit unions will accept it. If it has expired, the bank will ask for another form of ID, even if you're still waiting for your permanent card to arrive.

Other documents that count as temporary ID include a passport (which is permanent but works the same way), a state-issued temporary permit, or a military ID. A utility bill, lease, or Social Security card alone will not work as your primary ID for opening an account, though banks often ask for these as secondary documents to verify your address.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks accept valid temporary IDs issued by your state's DMV, as long as the expiration date hasn't passed.
  • You will need to provide a second document showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
  • Some banks require a Social Security number or ITIN; if you don't have one, ask whether the bank offers accounts for people without a SSN.
  • Online banks and credit unions sometimes have different ID requirements than large national banks, so calling ahead saves a trip.
  • If your temporary ID has expired, bring your Social Security card and a current address document to explain the delay in receiving your permanent ID.

What documents you'll need to bring

Bring your temporary ID and one document that shows your current address. Banks use the address document to verify where you live and to set up your account correctly. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a recent bank statement all work. The document should show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days—banks vary on how recent they require it to be.

You will also need your Social Security number. If you don't have one, tell the bank before you go in. Some banks can open accounts using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, but not all of them do. A few banks and credit unions offer accounts without a SSN or ITIN, though these accounts sometimes have limits on what you can do with them. Calling the bank's customer service line before you visit saves time if you're in this situation.

Bring the documents in their original form if possible. Banks sometimes accept photocopies or digital photos of documents, but policies vary. If you're opening an account online, you'll upload photos of your ID and address document through the bank's website or app. Online banks usually ask you to verify your identity through a video call with a representative, who will look at your temporary ID on camera.

How banks verify temporary ID

When you hand over your temporary ID, the bank employee will check three things: that it's a government-issued document, that your name and photo match you, and that the expiration date hasn't passed. They'll usually scan or photograph the ID and enter the information into their system. This takes a few minutes and is the same process they use for permanent IDs.

The bank may also run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are databases that track banking history and fraud. This check happens whether you use a temporary or permanent ID. It doesn't affect your credit score and usually takes less than a minute to complete.

If your temporary ID is expired, the bank will ask why you don't have a permanent one. If you explain that you're waiting for it to arrive, most banks will accept your temporary ID anyway if you provide the address document and Social Security number. Some banks have a policy of not accepting expired IDs under any circumstance, so if this happens, ask to speak to a manager—policies can sometimes be waived for people in transition.

Opening an account in person vs. online

Opening an account in a bank branch takes about 15 to 30 minutes. You'll hand over your temporary ID and address document, answer questions about your employment and income, and sign paperwork. The bank will give you a debit card on the spot or mail it to you within 5 to 10 business days. Your account is usually active the same day, so you can deposit money or set up direct deposit right away.

Opening an account online is faster—usually 10 to 15 minutes—but you won't have a debit card when ready. You'll upload photos of your temporary ID and address document through the bank's app or website. Many online banks then ask you to verify your identity through a video call, where a representative will ask you to show your ID on camera and answer security questions. After that, your account opens within a few hours to one business day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Credit unions sometimes have stricter ID requirements than banks, but many will accept a temporary ID if you're a member or becoming a member. Some credit unions require you to open an account in person, while others let you start online and finish in a branch. Call your local credit union before you visit to confirm what they need.

What happens if your temporary ID expires before your permanent one arrives

If your temporary ID expires while you're waiting for your permanent card, your bank account doesn't close. The bank won't suddenly freeze your account or ask you to re-verify. However, if you need to open a second account or update your information with the bank, you'll need a valid ID at that point.

Once your permanent driver's license or ID card arrives, you don't have to update it with the bank unless you changed your address. If your address stayed the same, your account information is already correct. If you moved, you can update your address online through the bank's app or website, or by calling customer service—you won't need to show your new ID unless the bank asks.

If you're still waiting for your permanent ID and need to open another account somewhere else, bring your expired temporary ID plus your Social Security card and an address document. Explain that you're waiting for your permanent ID to arrive. Most banks will work with you, especially if you can show that you applied for the permanent ID through your state's DMV.

Banks and credit unions that accept temporary ID

Most major banks accept temporary IDs without issue. This includes Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and regional banks in your area. Credit unions almost always accept temporary IDs as long as you meet their membership requirements. Online banks like Chime, Ally, and Charles Schwab accept temporary IDs through their video verification process.

Some banks have stricter policies. A few smaller regional banks or credit unions may require a permanent ID, but this is uncommon. The best approach is to call the bank or credit union before you visit or explore online. Ask: "Can I open an account with a temporary state ID that's still valid?" This takes one minute and tells you exactly what to bring.

If a bank refuses your temporary ID and you have no other government-issued ID, ask whether they accept a passport instead. A U.S. passport is permanent and works the same way as a driver's license for opening an account. If you don't have a passport and can't get one quickly, try a different bank or credit union—there's no reason to use a bank that won't work with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my Social Security number to open an account with a temporary ID?

Most banks require a Social Security number or ITIN to open any account. If you don't have one, call the bank before you visit and ask whether they offer accounts without a SSN. Some credit unions and a few online banks do, though these accounts may have restrictions. Bring your passport or other government ID if you don't have a SSN.

What if my temporary ID is expired but I'm still waiting for my permanent one?

Many banks will still accept an expired temporary ID if you explain the situation and provide your Social Security number and a current address document. However, some banks have a strict policy against expired IDs. Call ahead or ask to speak to a manager in the branch—policies can sometimes be waived for people waiting on their permanent ID.

Can I open an account online with a temporary ID?

Yes. Online banks accept temporary IDs through their video verification process. You'll upload a photo of your temporary ID and address document, then verify your identity on a video call with a bank representative. The process takes about 15 minutes, and your account usually opens within a few hours.

Will opening an account with a temporary ID affect my credit score?

No. Opening a bank account does not affect your credit score. Banks check ChexSystems and Early Warning Services, which track banking history and fraud, not credit. These checks don't show up on your credit report and don't lower your score.

What if the bank won't accept my temporary ID?

Ask whether they accept a passport instead. If you don't have a passport, try a different bank or credit union—most will accept a valid temporary ID. You can also ask to speak to a manager to see whether an exception can be made, especially if your temporary ID is still valid and you have other documents showing your identity and address.