Veterans are some of the most loved and appreciated citizens in the United States. They often serve our country with distinction, making huge sacrifices to protect our freedoms. One way to thank veterans is by ensuring they have access to quality healthcare. The Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) is one way to make sure veterans can get the care they need. But what is a VHIC card? And how can it help veterans?

The VHIC is a VA identity card. It’s available to any veteran who is enrolled in VA. It can be used at any VA medical facility as a way to check in for appointments. It safeguards personal information while also giving VA staff the data they need to access a veteran’s health records.

You’ve come to the right place! We’ll discuss a VHIC card and how it can benefit you. Keep reading for more information!

What Are the Benefits of a VHIC Card?

The VHIC card is an excellent way for veterans to get discounts at various stores and restaurants. This card also safeguards your personal information while granting VA the data they need to access your VA health records. VHIC holders can also get veteran benefits without requesting another form of photo ID. VHIC cards cannot be used as credit or insurance cards.

The VHIC provides the following:

• Personal information is more secure with barcodes because no personally identifiable information is contained in the unusual patterns.
• Every veteran is given an electronic data interchange personal identifier by the Department of Defense, which allows the VA to access and retrieve health records.
• The card features the emblem of the newest branch that the veteran served in. And, many other special awards will be mentioned too.
• The Braille “VA” on the card facilitates identification and use by visually impaired veterans.
• Anti-counterfeiting – Microtext decreases the occurrence of imitation of cards.

The VHIC can be used at VA facilities nationwide. The VHIC is a great way for veterans to get discounts and access their health records. In addition, the VHIC provides many benefits, including security, convenience, and accessibility. Veterans can use their VHICs at VA facilities nationwide. Veterans can now obtain the care and benefits they need and deserve, thanks to the VHIC.

How Do I Get a VA VHIC Card?

The most straightforward approach to get started is to call your local VA medical center and ask to talk with an enrollment coordinator. Request that the coordinator assists you in taking a photograph for your new Veteran Health Identification Card. The next time you have a VA health care appointment, ask the staff to help take your picture. The VHIC can also be obtained by mailing in a completed application. The VHIC is not available at all VA facilities; some Veterans may need to go to a different facility to get their VHIC.

If you have a VHIC, there is no need to request another form of photo ID to get veteran benefits or retail/business discounts. The VHIC cannot be used to obtain credit or insurance. The Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) verifies your enrollment in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system as a Veteran. The VHIC allows Veterans to receive Veteran-specific benefits and services at VA facilities, like retail discounts and priority access to VA medical care. You can use your VHIC instead of a driver’s license or Social Security card when you need proof of Veteran status. Still, it cannot be used as a credit or insurance card.

Suppose you are a Veteran registered in the VA health care system. You can obtain a VHIC by contacting a VA facility or sending a signed application. If you have questions about the VHIC, you can visit VA’s website or call 1-877-222-VETS (8387).

Can VHIC Get You On Base?

A VHIC (Veteran Health Identification Card) is necessary for veterans to gain access to the base. Simply bring your VHIC and a valid state ID, driver’s license, or passport to an installation’s Pass and ID office if you are a veteran. If the office isn’t located outside of the base, call ahead for directions. A background check is required to access the facilities, and it only takes a few minutes to complete. Then just drive to the gate and show your VHIC pass. 

The technique may take a bit longer for experienced caretakers, but it is just as simple. You should have received an eligibility letter from the VA’s Office of Community Care if you are a caregiver. You must present this letter and your REAL ID-compliant identification card to the base Pass and ID office. 

The most important aspect, however, is the ID card sensor. With a VHIC or base-specific DBIDS credential, base security personnel can quickly scan and verify the credentials of new vets. Veterans will have to undergo the background check procedure again with each new base visit. They will need to be rechecked and reregistered every three years. VHICs do not need to be renewed.

The VHIC is the only acceptable form of identification for veterans to access VA benefits and services, so make sure you have yours with you at all times! If you have questions about VHICs or need assistance getting one, don’t hesitate to contact your nearest VA facility.

Do Veterans Have Base Privileges?

Veterans who have a VHIC card have base privileges. With your VHIC, you can access all military installations, commissaries, exchanges, and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities. Veteran discounts are also available at a range of retailers and eateries. Veterans with a service-connected handicap who want to use an installation’s amenities or shop at the commissary will need a Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC).

The VHIC is evidence of the veteran’s eligibility and must state as such. For example, if the cardholder is a Purple Heart recipient, a former POW, or has a service-connected disability, this information must be displayed on the card. If you do not have a VHIC, you can request one by filling out an application form at your local VA medical center. There is no charge for the VHIC.

What Denies You Access to a Military Base?

• If you have previously been forcefully evicted from a military base and asked not to return.
• If you are currently on parole for being convicted of a felony.
• If you try to enter without the necessary permission or documentation.
• If you have been drinking or doing drugs.
• If you refuse to cooperate with security screening procedures.
• If you have outstanding arrest warrants.
• If you’re a convicted sex offender.

What if I Have a VHIC But My Dependents Do Not?

If you have a VHIC but your dependents do not. They will still be able to access military bases with you as long as they have a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. If they do not have a valid photo ID, they may be able to get a dependent ID card, which will allow them to access military benefits and privileges. To get a dependent ID card, the sponsor (veteran) will need to fill out an application form at their local VA medical center. There is no price for the dependent ID card.