What the VHIC is and how to get one
The Veteran Health Identification Card, or VHIC, is the photo ID you use to check in at VA health care appointments. To get one you first need to be enrolled in VA health care, so if you are not enrolled yet, start with our guide to [VA health care near Fort Bragg](/veteran).
Once you are enrolled and have had your VA welcome call, you can request a VHIC online through AccessVA, which uses an ID.me or Login.gov account, or in person at a VA medical center by asking for the enrollment coordinator. The VA's guidance is to request the card only once, online or in person, because requesting it more than once causes delays.
Why the VHIC is not DEERS or your military ID
This trips up a lot of people. DEERS and your military ID card are part of the Department of Defense and TRICARE system, not the VA. The VHIC is the VA's card. They are separate systems run by different agencies, so having one does not give you the other.
If your question is about DEERS, your military ID, or TRICARE eligibility, that is the TRICARE side, and our [TRICARE guide](/tricare) covers it. For checking in at VA care, the VHIC is the card you want.
Frequently asked questions
What is a VHIC?
The Veteran Health Identification Card, a photo ID you use to check in at VA health care appointments. You need to be enrolled in VA health care to get one.
How do I request a VHIC near Fort Bragg?
After you enroll and get your VA welcome call, request it online through AccessVA (using ID.me or Login.gov) or in person at a VA medical center via the enrollment coordinator. Request it only once to avoid delays.
Is the VHIC the same as DEERS or my military ID?
No. DEERS and your military ID are the DoD/TRICARE system; the VHIC is the VA's card. They are separate. See our TRICARE guide for the DEERS and TRICARE side.
Sources
- Get a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) (VA.gov)· reviewed 2026-06-14
- Eligibility for VA health care (VA.gov)· reviewed 2026-06-14
About our medical review process
This page was reviewed by Myra A. Jones BSN, RN, CCM, a registered nurse, for medical accuracy and adherence to current clinical standards as of June 14, 2026. ProviderQuoHealth’s health content is reviewed by licensed healthcare professionals before publication and re-checked when the content materially changes.
Important: Not Medical Advice
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you have about a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice, or delay seeking it, because of something you have read on ProviderQuoHealth. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
ProviderQuoHealth is an independent directory and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. Department of Defense. This page provides general information about navigating benefits only and is not medical, legal, or VA-benefits advice. Always confirm details on va.gov and with an accredited representative.