5 Easy Steps to Create Your Own ID Cards

To create your own ID card you have to determine the information you want the ID card to contain and how you want it to look, gather accurate and complete information, input the information into the computer and make the layout, print the card, and use a protective covering.

Identification cards, or ID cards, serve various purposes for organizations, schools, the workplace or events. ID cards are important in establishing the identity of an individual and grant him or her access to places, information or any other exclusive material. For an organization or group, ID cards help enforce security measures. If you are planning to have an ID card for your group or company, you can have one made at a store or create it on your own. You will only need fairly common materials like paper and plastic sleeves for identification cards and a basic knowledge of some computer programs that you can use for designing the layout. Here are steps you can follow in making an ID card:

Step 1: Determine the information you want the ID card to contain and how you want it to look

Depending on the purpose and personal preference, you should determine what details should be present on the ID card. If the card is to be used for an organization and its members, information that could be displayed are the name of the member, address, contact information, the member’s position or designation, the organization’s name or logo and other relevant information. You can also include a recent photograph of the member. After you have determined what information you want to display, decide how you want the card to look. It will be easier to picture a layout for the card once you know what information it will display. You should thoroughly plan and, if possible, discuss the first step to avoid mistakes and to make sure that the ID card will contain all the information you need.

Step 2: Gather accurate and complete information

After you determine what information the card will have, make a comprehensive list of the data which you can refer to so you can make sure you do not forget anyone. Double check the information and make sure that it is accurate and complete.

Step 3: Input the information into the computer and make the layout

There are several computer programs you can use for making the layout for the card. Take note of the size of the card and see if you can effectively arrange the information in such a way that it is easy to understand and see. If you are using a digital photograph, be sure to include it in your layout. If the photograph is in hard copy form, you can paste it onto the card after you print it out.

Step 4: Print the card

Be sure you print the card on good quality paper that is durable and suitable for ID cards.

Step 5: Use protective covering for the card

Remember that the ID card is an important document, so it is a good idea to place it inside a protective covering after it is printed. You can have the cards laminated or buy plastic sleeves to insert the card in.
A person’s identification card is a vital piece of information which represents the individual and the organization he or she belongs to. This document should be safely kept.