In Australia you are not required by law to carry proof of identification (ID), but you may find it useful in some situations. For example you may need to prove you are over 18 to buy alcohol or enter some venues.

Banks and other organisations also require you to give them proof of ID. Before opening a bank account check with your bank to find out what they need.

Important

If you drive a car or truck or ride a motorcycle in Victoria you must have a valid driver's licence with you. If you have a driver's licence from another country and if it is in English or translated into English you may be able to use it.

If you have a driver's licence from another country, read the Overseas drivers page on the VicRoads website.

Find out about getting your Victorian driver's licence on the VicRoads website.

Your student ID

When you enrol to study, your university, college or school gives you a student identification card. Your student number is on the card. Many universities, colleges and schools also include your photo on the card.

While you are studying in Australia carry your student ID card so you can easily access student services and facilities like libraries and gyms on campus. Your student ID also gives you some discounts and special deals. Contact your university, college or school to find out more about the benefits your student ID gives you.

Student ID at exams

Take your student ID with you to exams. You'll need it to register that you sat the exam. If you do not have your student ID with you, you may not be allowed to sit the exam.

Student ID for VET students

If you are studying at a Vocational Education and Training (VET) Institution (such as a TAFE course) your college or school gives you a nine-digit identification Victorian Student Number (VSN).

The college or school uses the number to identify your records.

Proof of age

You may need to prove that you are over 18 to enter some venues or to purchase alcohol. You can use a number of official documents to prove your age. Some examples are:

  • a proof of age card
  • a driver's licence issued in Victoria or any other Australian state.
  • your passport

You may be able to use your Victorian proof of age card in other states. Check with the authorities in other states if you plan to do this.

Victorian proof of age card

Use a Victorian proof of age card anywhere in Australia to prove your age.

How to apply for a Victorian proof of age card

Victorian proof of age cards are issued by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR). You can apply at some police stations, Australia Post outlets, VicRoads offices and pharmacies.

Find out more about the Victorian proof of age card on the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation website or by calling 1300 182 457.

Keypass cards

Keypass cards are issued by Australia Post. The Keypass card is recognised as a proof of age and identity card. It can be used to enter and purchase alcohol at participating licensed premises, and for other identity moments such as proving who you are when applying for a job, renting, and to get a Victorian driver licence.

Find out more about how to apply for a Keypass card on the Australia Post website.

Keypass in Australia Post’s Digital iD™

Keypass in Digital iD™ allows you to use your smartphone to prove your age wherever Digital iD™ is accepted.

You can use Keypass in Digital iD™ as proof of age to enter and buy alcohol at participating licensed venues in Vic, Tas, Qld, ACT and NT (excluding takeaway alcohol in NT). 

How to get a Keypass in Digital iD™

1. Download the free Digital iD™ app.
2. Verify the details of your identity documents.
3. Take a photo, and get the photo verified.

If you are 18+, and have a verified photo in Digital iD™ you will automatically get a Keypass in Digital iD™.

Visit the Digital iD™ website for more information.