In Australia, a credit card is not considered a primary form of identification that can be used to gain access to services, prove your age, etc. But they are considered a secondary form of identification.
Keep scrolling for more about where and when you can use a credit card as proof of ID.
Key takeaways
- A credit card is not considered a primary form of ID in Australia, unlike a passport or driver's licence.
- Some private businesses may accept a credit card as proof of ID, but it's best to check beforehand.
- Primary forms of ID in Australia include a driver's licence, passport, Medicare card, birth or certificate, etc.
When credit cards can be used as ID
While credit cards are not considered a primary form of identification, some businesses may accept them under limited circumstances. For example, a credit card can be used as a form of identification when checking into a hotel or renting a car.
However, some combination of identity documents is often required, such as a document linking a name, photograph and signature (typically government-issued photographic ID in the form of a driver's licence, passport, or Medicare card).
Why credit cards are not primary ID
There are various reasons why credit cards are not considered to be a primary form of ID.
- Holding a credit card does not prove your age. For example, you may be an additional cardholder on someone else's account and younger than 18.
- A credit card does not prove your address. Banks do not print cardholder addresses on cards since this would be a security threat.
- Credit cards can be faked more readily than a government-issued photo ID.
Valid forms of ID
Driver's licences, passports, and other government-issued photographic ID cards are widely accepted as primary forms of ID. You may need to produce one or more of the following with a credit card to confirm your identity.
- Driver's licence. Certifies that an individual is legally qualified to drive a motor vehicle. Widely accepted.
- Passport. Proves the identity and nationality of the holder for international travel. Widely accepted.
- Proof of age card. A government-issued card that proves the holder is over the legal age to buy alcohol or tobacco. Typically issued to people without a driver's licence.
- Medicare card. Not photo ID and therefore less widely accepted as a driver's licence or passport.
- Government-issued certificates. For example, a birth or marriage certificate. Not photographic ID.
