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.