Common Access Card (CAC)
The CAC, a "smart" card about the size of a credit card, is the standard identification for active duty uniformed service personnel, Selected Reserve, DoD civilian employees, and eligible contractor personnel. It is also the principal card used to enable physical access to buildings and controlled spaces, and it provides access to DoD computer networks and systems.
Card Topology
Card Types & Eligibility
The four different types of cards are listed below. The card you will be eligible for will be determined by your "Sponsor," the person affiliated with the DoD or other federal agency responsible for verifying and authorizing your need for an ID card. The uses of the card depend on the component/Command that you support. Each component/Command can customize the CAC to meet its specific needs.
Are you a sponsor? Visit the Sponsorship & Eligibility section of the ID Card Lifecycle for more details on this process.
Card Type | Recipients | Affiliation |
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Armed Forces of the United States Geneva Conventions Identification CardThe standard card for active duty personnel in accordance with Geneva Convention requirements. |
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U.S. DoD and/or Uniformed Services Identification CardThe standard card for qualifying civilian employees, contractors, and foreign national affiliates who need access to DoD facilities, installations, and computer systems. |
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U.S. DoD and/or Uniformed Services Geneva Conventions Identification Card for Civilians Accompanying the Armed ForcesThe standard card for civilians accompanying the Armed Forces. |
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U.S. DoD and/or Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege CardThe standard card granting applicable benefits and privileges for civilian employees, contractors, and foreign national military, as well as other eligible personnel. |
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Color Coding | ||
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Blue Bar: Non-U.S. Citizen |
Green Bar: Contractors |
White: All Remaining Personnel |