What temporary ID banks will accept
Yes, you can open a bank account with a temporary ID in most cases, but the rules depend on what kind of temporary ID you have and which bank you approach. A temporary ID is a document issued by a government agency that proves your identity while you wait for a permanent one — usually a driver's license or state ID card.
Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity before opening an account. They accept temporary IDs because they are government-issued documents with your photo, signature, and identifying information. However, some banks are stricter than others, and a few may ask you to come back once your permanent ID arrives.
The most commonly accepted temporary IDs are a temporary driver's license or temporary state ID card issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A temporary passport or passport card also works. If you have a temporary ID from your state, call the bank branch where you want to open the account and ask whether they accept it — this takes two minutes and saves you a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks accept temporary government-issued IDs with a photo, such as a temporary driver's license or state ID card.
- Call your chosen bank before visiting to confirm they accept your specific type of temporary ID.
- Bring a second form of ID if you have one, even if it is not government-issued — this strengthens your process.
- Some banks may ask you to provide your permanent ID once it arrives, so keep the account open and follow up when your new ID is ready.
- If one bank declines, try a credit union or a bank known for serving people new to banking, as their policies are often more flexible.
What documents to bring besides your temporary ID
Bring your temporary ID plus at least one other form of identification, even if it is not government-issued. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and address on it helps the bank confirm who you are and where you live. If you have a Social Security card, bring that too — banks need your Social Security number to set up the account anyway.
If you do not have a second form of ID, tell the bank this when you call ahead. Some will open the account with just the temporary ID and a utility bill. Others may ask you to bring a witness who knows you, or they may ask you to come back with additional documents. Calling first means you will know what to expect and can gather the right papers before you go.
Bring proof of your current address if it differs from the address on your temporary ID. This is common if you recently moved or if your temporary ID was issued at an old address. A recent utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency with your new address will do.
Why some banks hesitate and what to do about it
A few banks are cautious about temporary IDs because they expire soon — usually within 30 to 90 days depending on your state. The bank's concern is that you might not renew it or that the information might change. This is rare, but it happens.
If a bank declines your temporary ID, do not assume all banks will. Try a different branch of the same bank, or try a credit union in your area. Credit unions often have more flexible policies and are used to working with people in transition — new to the country, new to the state, or rebuilding their financial life. Community banks also tend to be more willing to work with temporary IDs than large national chains.
If you are having trouble, ask the bank whether they will open the account now and let you update your ID information once your permanent ID arrives. Many will agree to this arrangement. Write down the name of the person who tells you this, and ask them to note it in your file so there is no confusion later.
Timeline: when your permanent ID arrives
Once your permanent driver's license or state ID arrives, contact the bank and let them know. Bring the new ID in to update your account information. This usually takes a few minutes and can often be done at any branch or even by mail, depending on the bank.
Do not wait too long to do this. If the bank's records still show an expired temporary ID months later, it can cause problems if you need to withdraw large amounts of cash or if the bank reviews your account. Updating it is straightforward and protects you.
If the bank told you when you opened the account that they would need to see your permanent ID, follow up as soon as you have it. This shows good faith and keeps your account in good standing.
Banks and credit unions more likely to accept temporary ID
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have strict policies and may decline a temporary ID, though this varies by branch. Call ahead rather than showing up and being turned away.
Credit unions, especially those focused on community banking or serving people new to banking, are usually more flexible. If you belong to a credit union through your employer, school, or community organization, start there — they already know something about you and are more likely to work with a temporary ID.
Online banks and fintech companies often have more relaxed ID requirements because they verify identity through other means, like your Social Security number and address history. However, they cannot accept a temporary ID in person because there is no in-person process. If you are comfortable with online banking, this might be your fastest route.
Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and banks that specialize in serving unbanked or underbanked people are designed for situations like yours. Search online for "CDFI near me" or "community bank [your city]" to find one in your area.
What if you do not have a temporary ID yet
If you do not yet have even a temporary ID, you have a few options. Some banks will open an account with a passport or passport card, which are federal documents. Others will accept a consular ID if you are not yet a U.S. citizen. A few will open an account with just a Social Security card and proof of address, though this is less common.
If you are waiting for your first temporary ID from the DMV, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out how long the process takes. Many states now offer expedited temporary IDs that you can get the same day or within a few days. If you are in a hurry to open a bank account, this might be worth the extra fee.
Call the bank and describe exactly what ID documents you have. Be specific — do not just say "I have ID," but say "I have a passport" or "I have a Social Security card and a utility bill." The person on the phone can tell you whether that is enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the bank keep my temporary ID or make a copy?
The bank will make a copy or scan your temporary ID for their records. You keep the original. If they ask to keep it, that is unusual — ask why and consider going to a different bank.
What if my temporary ID has a different address than where I live now?
Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will update your address in their system. You do not need to wait for your permanent ID to be reissued with the new address.
Can I open an account online with a temporary ID?
Most online banks cannot verify a temporary ID through their digital process because they cannot see the physical document. You would need to go to a branch or use a bank that accepts online verification through other means, like your Social Security number and address history.
What happens if my temporary ID expires before my permanent one arrives?
Contact the bank as soon as you know this might happen. Many will let you update your account with your new temporary ID or will hold your account without issue. Do not let it lapse without telling the bank — staying in touch prevents problems.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card to open an account?
You do not need the physical card, but you will need to provide your Social Security number. If you have the card, bringing it makes the process faster because the bank can verify the number on the spot. If you do not have it, you can provide the number from memory, though the bank may ask you to verify it later.