You need some form of ID, but it doesn't have to be a driver's license

Banks are required by federal law to verify who you are before opening an account. This is called Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, and it protects both you and the bank from fraud. The specific ID documents a bank will accept varies by the bank and the type of account, but most banks have options beyond a standard driver's license.

The most common acceptable documents are a state-issued ID card, passport, passport card, or driver's license. If you don't have any of these, many banks will also accept a tribal ID, military ID, or permanent resident card. Some banks have additional options — ask before you assume you can't open an account.

The reason banks ask for ID is straightforward: they need to confirm your legal name, date of birth, and current address so they can report your account to the IRS and check you against fraud databases. Without this step, they cannot legally open the account.

Key Takeaways

  • A state-issued ID, passport, or driver's license is the standard document banks request, but other government-issued IDs often work.
  • If you don't have a current ID, you can get a state ID card from your local DMV or equivalent office — it costs less than a driver's license and takes the same time.
  • Some banks accept tribal IDs, military IDs, or permanent resident cards if you don't have a state ID or passport.
  • You will also need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) so the bank can verify your identity against federal records.
  • Bring a second document showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or government mail — not all banks require this, but having it speeds up the process.

What counts as acceptable ID at most banks

The documents banks most commonly request are government-issued and photo-bearing. A state driver's license is the standard, but a state ID card (issued by your DMV even if you don't drive) works just as well. A U.S. passport or passport card also works everywhere. If you have a permanent resident card (green card), tribal ID, or military ID, most banks will accept those too.

Some banks have expanded their lists to include documents like a foreign passport with a U.S. visa, a consular ID card, or a state-issued ID from another country paired with additional proof of U.S. residency. Call the bank's customer service line before you visit a branch to confirm whether your specific document will work — this saves you a trip.

Getting a state ID card if you don't have one

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, the fastest path is a state ID card from your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office — it's called different things in different states, but every state issues them. A state ID card is not a driver's license; it's a photo ID that proves who you are and where you live. It costs less than a driver's license (usually between $10 and $30) and takes the same amount of time to get.

To get a state ID card, you will need to bring proof of your legal name and date of birth (a birth certificate, passport, or immigration document) and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or government mail). You visit your local DMV office, fill out an process form, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. Most people receive their card in the mail within two to four weeks.

If you're experiencing homelessness or don't have a permanent address, many states have workarounds — you can use a shelter address, a mail forwarding service address, or a trusted friend's address with a letter from them confirming you live there. Contact your state DMV directly to ask what your state accepts.

Why banks also ask for your Social Security number

Along with your ID, the bank will ask for your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This is separate from your ID document — it's a nine-digit number that identifies you to the IRS and other federal agencies. The bank uses it to verify your identity against federal records and to report your account activity to the IRS.

If you don't have a Social Security number because you're not a U.S. citizen, you may be able to get an ITIN from the IRS. An ITIN is a tax identification number for people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open a bank account. Some banks will open accounts for people with an ITIN instead of an SSN, though not all do — call ahead to confirm.

Bringing proof of your address

Most banks require two pieces of identification: your government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or government mail like a tax notice or voter registration card. The document should show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days.

If you don't have a document in your name at your current address, some banks will accept a letter from a landlord or property manager on letterhead confirming you live there, or a utility bill in a roommate's name with a signed statement from them saying you live there. Again, call the bank first — requirements vary.

Opening an account without a physical ID in person

Some banks allow you to open an account online or by phone without visiting a branch. If you go this route, you will still need to provide the same information — your legal name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number or ITIN — but you may be able to upload a photo of your ID instead of showing it in person.

Online account opening is faster (sometimes when ready, sometimes taking a few business days) and works well if you already have an ID document and a way to photograph it clearly. If you don't have an ID yet, you will need to get one before you can open an account online, since the bank needs to verify it against your face or signature.

What happens if you're refused

If a bank refuses to open an account because of your ID, ask them specifically which documents they do and don't accept. Some banks have stricter policies than others. If one bank says no, another bank may say yes — policies differ by institution.

If you're being refused because you don't have any government-issued ID, your next step is to get a state ID card from your DMV. If you're being refused because you don't have a Social Security number or ITIN, contact the IRS about getting an ITIN, or ask the bank whether they have a second-chance banking program for people without an SSN (some do, though they're less common).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport?

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card is a government-issued photo ID and works at every bank. You will still need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN and proof of your current address.

What if my ID is expired?

Most banks will accept an expired ID as long as it's not too old — usually within five to ten years of expiration. Call the bank first to confirm their specific policy. If your ID is very old, getting a new one from your DMV is faster than arguing about it.

Can I use a school ID or work ID?

No. Banks require government-issued ID, not institutional ID. A school ID or employee badge doesn't work because it's not issued by a government agency and doesn't prove your legal name or date of birth in a way the bank can verify.

Do I need an ID if I'm opening an account for a child?

You need your own ID to open a custodial account for a child. The child does not need their own ID. You will provide your ID, Social Security number, and address, and the bank will issue an account in the child's name under your guardianship.

What if I'm undocumented?

You can open a bank account with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Contact the IRS about getting an ITIN, then call banks in your area to ask which ones accept ITIN holders. Not all banks do, but many do, especially in areas with larger immigrant populations.