What you can do without a photo ID
Yes, you can open a bank account online without a photo ID, but the path depends on which bank you choose and what documents you have instead. Most large banks require photo ID because federal law (the Bank Secrecy Act) requires them to verify your identity before opening an account. However, some banks and credit unions have alternative verification methods: they may accept a passport card, a state ID without a photo, a combination of documents like a utility bill plus a Social Security card, or even a video call where you show a non-photo ID and answer security questions.
The catch is that these alternatives are not standard across the industry. A bank that accepts a utility bill plus a birth certificate might not accept the same combination at another bank. Your best move is to call the bank's customer service line before you start the online application and ask directly: "What documents do you accept if I don't have a photo ID?" This takes five minutes and saves you from filling out an application that will be rejected.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks require photo ID because of federal identity verification rules, but some accept alternatives like passport cards, state IDs without photos, or combinations of documents.
- Call the bank before you apply online to confirm which documents they will accept in place of a photo ID.
- Credit unions and smaller regional banks are more likely to offer alternatives than national chains, though this varies by institution.
- If you have a passport (with or without a photo), a passport card, or a state ID of any kind, bring that to the conversation with the bank.
- Video verification is becoming more common at larger banks, and some will complete the process over a video call if you can show a non-photo ID and answer personal questions.
Documents that work instead of a photo ID
A passport (with photo) counts as photo ID and is accepted everywhere. A passport card (the wallet-sized version) does not have a photo on it, but many banks accept it as a form of federal ID. A state ID without a photo — which some states issue — is accepted by some banks but not all; call first.
If you do not have any of those, banks may accept a combination of documents. Common pairings include a utility bill or lease agreement (to prove your address) plus a Social Security card, birth certificate, or driver's license number. Some banks will also accept a tax return, W-2, or bank statement from another institution. The key is that you are giving the bank multiple pieces of information that together confirm who you are and where you live.
Video verification is growing more common. Some banks now allow you to open an account by video call: you show a non-photo ID (like a state ID card without a photo, or a passport card), answer security questions about your personal history, and the bank verifies you that way. This is faster than mailing documents and does not require you to have a photo ID in hand.
Which banks are most likely to work with you
Credit unions and smaller regional banks tend to have more flexibility than national chains. They often know their members or communities and may be willing to verify you through a combination of documents or a phone call. If you belong to a credit union through your employer, school, or community, start there — they are more likely to have alternative verification methods than a national bank.
Online-only banks (like Chime, Ally, or Marcus) typically require photo ID because they have no branch network and cannot do in-person verification. However, some online banks partner with third-party verification services that may accept alternatives; again, call before you apply.
If you have a relationship with a bank already — even a savings account opened years ago — call that bank first. They already have your information on file and may be able to open a new account with less documentation than a new customer would need.
What happens during the online application
When you start an online application, the bank will ask for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. It will then ask you to upload or provide a photo ID. At that point, if you do not have one, you have two options: stop and call the bank to ask about alternatives before continuing, or complete the application and note in the comments that you do not have a photo ID and ask what to do next.
If you stop and call first, the bank can tell you exactly what to upload or mail instead. If you complete the application without the photo ID, the bank will likely send you an email or letter asking for alternative documents. This takes longer — usually a few extra days — but it is not a rejection. You will then mail or upload the documents they request.
Some banks will pause your application and ask you to call a verification line. Be ready to answer questions about your personal history: previous addresses, employer names, account numbers, or family information. This is standard and is how they confirm you are who you say you are.
Documents you will need to have ready
Gather these before you start the application: your Social Security number, your current address, and your date of birth. You will also need at least one form of ID — even if it is not a photo ID. If you have a passport card, state ID, or passport, have that. If not, have a birth certificate, Social Security card, and a recent utility bill or lease agreement ready to upload or mail.
Some banks ask for a phone number and email address during the application. Make sure both are current and that you can access them immediately, because the bank may send a verification code to confirm you control that phone or email.
What to do if the bank says no
If a bank rejects your application because you do not have a photo ID and cannot provide alternatives, try a credit union or a different bank. Do not apply to multiple banks in a short time frame — each application triggers a soft credit check, and too many in a row can lower your credit score slightly. Space applications out by at least a week.
If you are having trouble opening an account anywhere, consider whether you can obtain a photo ID. Many states offer a state ID card (separate from a driver's license) for a small fee, and the process is usually faster than renewing a license. A passport card is also relatively inexpensive and is accepted everywhere. Both are worth the cost if you plan to open a bank account or need ID for other reasons.
In the meantime, some banks offer second-chance or basic accounts that have fewer verification requirements. These accounts may have lower limits or higher fees, but they are a way to start banking while you work on getting a photo ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport card instead of a photo ID?
A passport card does not have a photo on it, but many banks accept it as federal ID. Call the bank first to confirm. If they do not accept it, ask what combination of documents they will take instead.
What if I mail documents instead of uploading them?
Mailing takes longer — usually one to two weeks for the bank to receive and process your documents — but it works. The bank will give you a mailing address and may ask you to include your application number or account number. Keep a copy of everything you mail and consider sending it certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
Do I need a Social Security number to open an account without a photo ID?
Yes. Federal law requires banks to collect your Social Security number for identity verification. If you do not have one, you will need to apply for one through the Social Security Administration before you can open a bank account.
Will opening an account without a photo ID affect my credit score?
No. Opening a bank account does not affect your credit score. The bank may do a soft credit check (which does not show up on your credit report), but this does not lower your score. Hard inquiries from credit card or loan applications are what can lower your score.
Can I use a video call to open an account if I do not have a photo ID?
Some banks offer this, but not all. Call the bank and ask whether they do video verification and what ID you need to show during the call. You will usually need to show a non-photo ID and answer personal security questions to confirm your identity.