The Common Access Card (CAC) serves as the standard identification for military personnel, DoD civilians, and eligible contractors. But is it actually a military ID? The answer involves understanding the CAC’s multiple roles and how it compares to other military identification documents.
What is a CAC Card?
The Common Access Card is a smart card issued by the Department of Defense that serves three primary functions:
- Identification: Proves identity and affiliation with DoD
- Physical access: Grants entry to military installations and buildings
- Logical access: Enables login to DoD computer networks and systems
The CAC contains an integrated circuit chip that stores digital certificates for authentication and encryption, along with biometric data (fingerprints) and personal information.
CAC as Military ID
For active duty service members, the CAC absolutely functions as their primary military identification. It displays:
- Name and photo
- Branch of service
- Rank/pay grade
- DoD ID number (replacing SSN)
- Blood type (optional)
- Expiration date
- Geneva Convention category (for service members)
Geneva Conventions Consideration
For uniformed service members, the CAC serves as their Geneva Conventions identification card, providing protected status under international law during armed conflict. This makes it more than just an ID—it’s a document of international legal significance.
CAC for Non-Military Personnel
While the CAC identifies DoD affiliation, it’s not technically a “military ID” for everyone who carries one:
DoD Civilians
Federal civilian employees of the Department of Defense receive CACs, but they’re not military personnel. Their CACs identify them as DoD civilians rather than service members.
Contractors
Eligible contractors supporting DoD missions may receive CACs for network and facility access. Their cards clearly identify them as contractors, not military members.
Dependents
Military dependents typically receive Uniformed Services ID cards (DD Form 1173), not CACs. Some dependents working for DoD may have both cards.
CAC vs Other Military ID Cards
Uniformed Services ID Card (DD Form 1173)
This card is issued to:
- Military dependents
- Retired service members
- Reserve members not on active duty
- Medal of Honor recipients
Retiree ID Cards
Military retirees receive specific ID cards identifying their retired status and benefits eligibility.
DEERS Enrollment
All military ID cards, including CACs, require enrollment in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) to verify eligibility.
Using CAC as Identification
Where CAC Works as ID
- Military installations and facilities
- DoD buildings and secure areas
- VA hospitals and facilities
- Some state agencies recognize CAC for ID purposes
- TSA accepts CAC as identification for air travel
Where CAC May Not Work
- Some commercial businesses may not recognize it
- State-specific requirements may vary
- International travel requires passport (CAC is not a travel document)
CAC Card Security
The CAC is a sensitive document that requires protection:
- Never leave your CAC unattended
- Report lost or stolen CACs immediately
- Don’t loan your CAC to anyone
- Protect your PIN—don’t write it down
- Surrender your CAC when required (separation, retirement)
Getting a CAC
CACs are issued at ID card offices (RAPIDS sites) on military installations. To receive a CAC, you need:
- Verified enrollment in DEERS
- Two forms of ID (one must be government-issued photo ID)
- Appointment at a RAPIDS site
- Sponsorship verification for contractors
Summary
The CAC serves as official military identification for active duty service members and plays a crucial role as a Geneva Conventions identity document. For DoD civilians and contractors, it’s a DoD affiliation card and access credential rather than a military ID in the traditional sense. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the CAC’s role in the broader military identification ecosystem.
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