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  • Do you need an i-card?

    Who needs an i-card?

    There is no general requirement to have an i-card. However, most students, faculty, and staff who are active on campus need i-cards for library services, meal plans, door access, COVID test check-in, and/or other card-based services.

    Eligibility for i-cards—for all University of Illinois IDs—is based on a person's affiliation to the U of I System and their actual need for a card. Read how to get an i-card if you're a student or employee, and if you're sponsoring a guest or extra help worker, read our visitors and other affiliates information.

  • Getting a library account number

    Getting a library account number

    Are you a fully online student who needs a library number to access materials and resources? If so, you can contact your ID Center to request one!

    Who should get one?

    If you're a student who doesn't have or need a physical i‑card—such as a 100% online or off-campus student—you can request a library account number. Traditional on-campus students with borrowing privileges can use their i‑card to check out library materials. As long as you have a valid student account (including an active NetID and UIN), a library account number may allow you to access certain electronic resources, and more—check with your university library to confirm what services are available with a library account number.

    How to submit a request

    Use your ".edu" account to email your ID Center and request a library account number, making sure to also provide your University Identification Number (UIN).

    Ready to explore? Learn more about your university's library and what they offer at Chicago, Springfield, or Urbana-Champaign.

  • Two ways to get your i-card!

    There's always two ways to get your i-card.

    All eligible employees and students (new and returning) can choose one of two ways to get an i‑card:

    1. Submit your photo online in advance, then pick up your i‑card at the ID Center. “Same day” service is not available with this option. If you opted into receiving emails, we'll notify you once your i‑card is ready.
      OR
    2. Let us take care of it! Stop by your ID Center to get your photo taken and your i‑card printed on site.

    Throughout the year, the ID Center is the only i-card pickup location available.

    Whichever option you choose, it's four easy steps to get your i‑card:

    Have questions or need help? Contact your ID Center, at Chicago, Springfield, or Urbana.