Yes, you need an ID to open a bank account, but which one depends on your situation and the bank

Every bank in the United States is required by federal law to verify your identity before opening an account. This is part of the Know Your Customer (KYC) rule, which applies to all banks, credit unions, and online banks. The specific ID they will accept varies by institution, but most will take a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. If you don't have one of those, you have other options — they're just slower and require more paperwork.

The bank will also ask for a second piece of information to confirm your identity: usually your Social Security number, but sometimes a tax ID number if you don't have a Social Security number. Some banks will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though not all do.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID is the fastest way to open an account; a driver's license, passport, state ID, or tribal ID will work at nearly every bank.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, you can still open an account using a combination of documents like a birth certificate, utility bill, and Social Security card, but the process takes longer.
  • You will need to provide a Social Security number, ITIN, or tax ID number in addition to your ID — banks verify both your identity and your tax status.
  • Online banks have the same ID requirements as brick-and-mortar banks, but they verify your identity differently — usually by uploading photos of your documents or answering security questions.
  • If you have no ID at all, some credit unions and community banks will work with you using alternative documents, but you should call ahead to ask what they accept.

What counts as acceptable ID at most banks

A government-issued photo ID is what banks prefer because it's hardest to fake. A driver's license is the most common one banks see. A U.S. passport, passport card, state ID card (the non-driver version), or tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe will also work at virtually every bank.

Some banks will accept a military ID, a permanent resident card (green card), or a foreign passport if you're not a U.S. citizen. A few will take a state-issued ID for people with disabilities. The safest approach is to call the bank branch or check their website before you go in — they'll tell you exactly what they take.

If you're opening an account online, you'll usually upload a photo of both sides of your ID. The bank's system scans it and checks that the name, date of birth, and ID number match what you entered. Some online banks also ask you to take a selfie holding your ID to confirm you're the person in the photo.

Opening an account without a photo ID

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can still open an account, but the process is slower and requires more documents. Banks will typically ask for a combination of items like a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bill in your name, lease or mortgage statement, or a letter from a government agency. The exact list depends on the bank.

Community banks and credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks on this. If you're in this situation, call ahead and ask what documents they will accept. Bring everything you have — the more you bring, the faster the process moves.

You should expect the account opening to take longer without a photo ID. Some banks will open the account the same day but with limited features until they verify your identity through other means. Others will ask you to come back with additional documents or will mail you a verification letter that you have to return signed.

What happens if you don't have a Social Security number

If you're not a U.S. citizen or don't have a Social Security number for another reason, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. An ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who need to file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. You get one by filing Form W-7 with the IRS.

Not every bank accepts an ITIN — some require a Social Security number. If you're in this situation, call the bank first. Credit unions and community banks are more likely to accept an ITIN than large national chains. Online banks vary; check their website or contact their support line.

If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN, some banks will open an account using a tax ID number (EIN) if you're self-employed or own a business. Again, call first — this is less common and not all banks do it.

How online banks verify your identity differently

Online banks follow the same federal ID requirements as brick-and-mortar banks, but they verify you remotely. Most ask you to upload a photo of your ID and take a selfie. Some use third-party verification services that cross-check your information against public records — your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.

A few online banks use video verification, where you speak to a person (or an AI system) who watches you hold up your ID and answer security questions. This is less common but more thorough. The whole process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

If the online bank's system can't verify you automatically, they'll ask you to mail in copies of your documents or call you to confirm information. This adds a few days to the process. Some online banks will let you use the account with limited features while verification is pending.

What to bring when you go to open an account in person

Bring your government-issued photo ID and your Social Security card (or ITIN letter or tax ID documentation). Bring a second form of ID if you have one — a credit card, library card, or student ID. Bring a recent utility bill or lease if you have one; banks sometimes ask for proof of your current address.

If you're opening a joint account, both account holders need to bring their own ID and proof of identity. If you're opening an account for a minor, you'll need the minor's birth certificate and your own ID; some banks require both parents or guardians to be present.

Bring your phone number and email address. The bank will use these to set up online banking and send you account information. If you're depositing money to open the account, bring that too — a check, cash, or a debit card to transfer funds.

What happens after you provide your ID

The bank runs your information through a system called ChexSystems, which tracks banking history and fraud. They check whether you've had accounts closed due to unpaid fees or fraud at other banks. This is not a credit check — it doesn't affect your credit score. Most people pass this check without issue.

The bank also checks you against the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) list, which is a list of people and entities the U.S. government has sanctioned. This is a routine check and almost never blocks an account opening.

Once the bank verifies your identity and runs these checks, they'll open your account. You'll get a debit card (usually within 7 to 10 business days), online banking access (usually the same day), and a checkbook if you requested one. Some banks charge a fee to open an account; many don't.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with an expired ID?

Most banks will not accept an expired ID, even if it's only expired by a few months. The ID needs to be current to prove you are who you say you are. If your ID is expired, renew it first — your state's DMV or equivalent office can usually do this quickly. In the meantime, ask the bank if they'll accept a second form of ID plus a utility bill or lease.

What if I lost my Social Security card but I know my number?

You can open a bank account with just your Social Security number; you don't need the physical card. Tell the bank your number and they'll verify it. If you want a replacement card later, you can request one from the Social Security Administration, but it's not required to open an account.

Can someone else open a bank account on my behalf?

No. You must be present and provide your own ID. Banks are required by law to verify the identity of the person whose name will be on the account. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor, but the minor's birth certificate is still required. You cannot authorize someone to open an account for you remotely or in person.

Do I need a different ID if I'm opening a business account?

You'll need your personal ID plus documentation for the business — usually a business license, EIN letter from the IRS, or articles of incorporation. The bank needs to verify both your identity and the business's identity. Call ahead to ask what documents the bank requires for your type of business.

What if the bank says my ID doesn't match my name?

This usually happens if you've changed your name since your ID was issued. Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. The bank will update their records. If you haven't legally changed your name but go by a different name, tell the bank — they may ask you to update your ID first.