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 may also require proof of your identity to set up accounts and services in your name.
Driving a car, truck or riding a motorcycle
If you drive a car or truck or ride a motorcycle in Victoria you must have a valid driver's licence and have it with you whenever you are driving. 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. Read the Overseas drivers page on the VicRoads website.
If you need to get a licence in Victoria, find out more on the VicRoads website.
Your student ID
When you enrol to study, your university, college or school will give 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 make sure you have your student ID card with you 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.
Get your student card to unlock exclusive benefits
View transcript
[International student, Orla, in front of city buildings holding student card]
Orla: Hey. It's Orla. Welcome to Melbourne.
Once you get here, student cards will be issued by your uni once you're fully enrolled.
You can pick them up on campus or your uni will communicate with you about this in your first week.
You'll use it for exams, and it'll also be used for access into rooms like the library or campus facilities as well.
And don't forget, your student card can get you lots of discounts around Melbourne.
[On-screen logo]
Study Melbourne
[End transcript]
Student ID at exams
Take your student ID with you to exams. You will need it to enter the exam and prove that you sat 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 will give you a nine-digit Victorian Student Number (VSN) for Identification.
Proof of age
You may need to prove that you are over 18 to enter some venues or to purchase alcohol.
You can use any of the following official documents to prove your age:
- A proof of age card
- A driver's licence issued in Victoria or any other Australian state.
- Your passport
Victorian proof of age card
Use a Victorian proof of age card anywhere in Australia to prove your age.
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.
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