Identification, Checks and Licences

Proving your identity, or who you say you are, is important when you’re an adult.  Here are the most common forms of identification (ID) in Aotearoa NZ. 

Note: you may have to pay for some forms of ID. 

Birth Certificate

NZ birth certificates are a record of your birth. If you don’t currently have one or have lost it, you can order one online. You’ll need this if you want a passport to travel overseas.

There is a fee for this service - $33 for a standard birth certificate.

Order a birth certificate | New Zealand Government

Photo Identification – Kiwi Access Card

A Kiwi Access Card (which replaces the 18+ card) is a form of legal photo ID that proves your identity and age. If you don’t have a valid passport and/or driver licence, a Kiwi Access Card is the ideal form of ID recognised in Aotearoa NZ. You can apply at some NZ Post stores, and it will get mailed to you within 2-3 weeks. You'll need a few things to take with you when you apply so click here for more info before you start: ID – NZ Post

There is a fee for this service. 

RealMe® 

RealMe® is a government-grade login and verified identity service. It is a secure login service that lets people access online government services using a single username and password. The verified identity service allows customers to easily and securely prove their identity online. RealMe® is a part of the Department of Internal Affairs.

What you can do with RealMe®

You can use RealMe® to log securely into online services such as your Inland Revenue account, and to renew or replace your passport. Some organisations need only a RealMe login, and for others you need to set up a RealMe® verified identity.

Where to use RealMe — RealMe Tēnei Au

With a RealMe® verified identity to prove who you are online, you can:

  • open a bank account
  • apply for a replacement driver licence
  • enrol to vote.

You can also apply to verify your address to prove where you live to any organisation that uses RealMe®.
Note: You may need to update your information, for example if you change address or mobile phone number.

There is no fee for this service.