Getting ID

If you're planning to hit the nightclubs, pubs and bars on your schoolies adventure - and even if you're planning to buy alcohol - you'll need to make sure you have the right kind of identification that proves that you are 18 or older.

Proof of Age cards

The following forms of ID are acceptable in Victoria and can be used as proof that you are 18 or over:

• a Victorian Proof of Age Card
• an Australian Driver's Licence
• a Passport
• a Keypass card

If you intend to use a proof of age card in another state, you may wish to contact the appropriate interstate licensing authorities to confirm that it is an accepted form of identification.

Victorian Proof of Age Cards

You can apply for a  Victorian Proof of Age Card if you are over the age of 17 years and 11 months. Proof of Age cards cost $10.

Application forms are available at the Victorian Consumer and Business Centre and participating police stations, Australia Post outlets, VicRoads offices and pharmacies. For further information call Responsible Alcohol Victoria on 1300 65 03 67.

Cards are issued and mailed to you within 10-15 working days and photos are taken at the point of application. You will need at least two original identity documents (such as a full birth certificate and Medicare card) to prove who you are and when you were born.

The card is recognised throughout Australia.

Keypass cards

Keypass is a private company that issues ID cards that are recognised as legitimate proof of ages in most venues. You must be over 18 to use Keypass for getting into licensed premises, buying alcohol or buying cigarettes.

Keypass application forms are available at police stations in Victoria. You can apply for your Keypass a week before your 18th birthday.

If travelling interstate, contact the appropriate licensing authorities to confirm that Keypass is an accepted form of identification.

Concession Cards

Schoolies week is a good time to keep your student ID on hand for any discounts that may be available. If you're catching public transport, then you may be eligible for discounts on travel to your schoolies destination.

Check out youthcentral's Student concessions page for more information and ideas about concessions.

Related Links

Responsible Alcohol Victoria - Victorian Proof of Age Card
Instructions for how to get a Proof of Age Card, what you need to get one, and a list of Victorian locations where you can apply for a card.

Keypass Cards
Instructions for getting your Keypass ID card.

youthcentral - Student concessions
Outlines different concessions available to students, the unemployed and other low-income people. Outlines the benefits of having a student and/or health care concession card.

Passports
Passports can be used as evidence of identity and citizenship. This site explains how you can apply for or renew a passport.