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My Coast Guard
Commentary | Sept. 28, 2020

Does your CAC or USID card expire soon?

By MyCG Staff

The Department of Defense issued a temporary waiver for expiring identification cards – both common access cards (CAC) cards and Uniformed Services ID (USID) cards – during the pandemic. The waiver for CACs sunsets Sept. 30, as anticipated. USID card holders are getting a little more time; their expired cards will work through June 30, 2021.

CAC Holders: What you need to know
The CAC is a "smart" card used as the standard identification for active duty Uniformed Service personnel, selected reserve, Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees, and eligible contractor personnel

  • If your CAC expires by Sept. 30, 2020, you should immediately visit your local RAPIDS site for a new card.
  • If your CAC expires on or after October 1, 2020, you’ll need to visit your RAPIDS site for a new card before yours expires.
  • Expired CACs do not impact Tricare eligibility. Tricare eligibility is based on Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) status. DEERS will continue to be the authoritative source to verify statutory eligibility for DoD Healthcare and other benefits. 

USID Card Holders: What you need to know
USID cards are issued to retired and reserve members, dependent family members of Uniformed Services members, and other eligible individuals in accordance with service policy to facilitate access to benefits, privileges, and military facilities.

  • If your affiliation is unchanged, and your USID card expired on or after January 1, 2020, you are authorized for continued benefit use through June 30, 2021.  
  • Mail-in processing for uniformed retirees, dependents, and annuitants has also been extended through June 30, 2021. 

Resources

  • The DoD’s ID Card Office Online can help you find a RAPIDS ID Card office, and schedule an appointment to renew your card.
  • DoD ID Card Office offers toll-free support: 800-538-9522  
  • CAC and USID FAQs