Get a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) 
Learn how to get a Veteran Health Identification Card VHIC. Find out what to do if your card is lost or stolen and what to do with any old ID cards you may have used for VA health care in the past. 

What's a Veteran Health Identification Card, and how will I use it? 
When you re enrolled in VA health care , you ll use your Veteran Health Identification Card VHIC to check in to your appointments at VA medical centers. This secure ID card keeps your personal information safe while giving us the information we need to easily access your VA health record. You may also use this card to get discounts offered to Veterans at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. If you have a VHIC , you don t need to request another type of photo ID card to prove you re a Veteran or to get retail or business discounts. Note: You can t use your VHIC as a credit card or insurance card. It doesn't pay copays or authorize care at non - VA health facilities. 

How do I get my VHIC? 
First , you ll need to be enrolled in VA health care. If you re not already enrolled , find out how to apply for VA health care. 

After you receive your VA health care welcome call 
Contact your nearest VA medical center and ask to speak with the enrollment coordinator. Ask the coordinator to help you arrange to get your picture taken for your new Veteran Health Identification Card. You can also ask for help with getting your picture taken at your next VA health care appointment. 

When you get your picture taken 
You ll need to show a current form of primary identification. Please bring your current, unexpired : State - issued driver s license , or U.S. passport or passport card , or Other government ID issued by a federal, state, or local government agency Note: This ID must show your picture and date of birth. If it doesn t also show your address , you ll need to bring a separate document to confirm your address. This may include your electric bill, cable bi

user: Hello I need information about What should I do if I do not receive my VHIC in the mail?

assistant: Has it been more than 10 days since your photo was taken and you did not receive your card?

user: Yes

assistant: Has it been more than 10 days since your photo was taken and you did not receive your card?

user: What should I expect after taking my photo?

assistant: After taking your photo we will process your VHIC and mail it to you. You should receive your card within 10 days.

user: What if you change your medical center during the trip since you received your original card?

assistant: You can contact the medical center where you currently receive care. Or, call us at 877 - 222 - 8387, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. at 8:00 p.m.

user: and what do these new cards offer?

assistant: It also offers other useful new features. This includes "VA" printed in braille to help low vision Veterans quickly recognize the card, as well as an display of their latest branch of service emblem and a list of special awards they may have received.

user: and can I use this card as a credit card?

assistant: Sorry. You cannot use your VHIC as a credit card or insurance card. You do not pay copays or authorize care in non-VA health facilities.