How to Get a CAC Card Appointment at Your Military Installation

Where to book your CAC card appointment

Your CAC card appointment is scheduled through your military installation's ID card office, not through a central phone line or website. The office that issues CAC cards is usually called the ID card office, pass and ID office, or RAPIDS office — the name varies by branch and base.

Start by calling the ID card office at your installation directly. If you are stationed at a major base, the office may have its own scheduling system or walk-in hours. If you are a civilian contractor, retiree, or family member, you may need to schedule through a different process than active-duty personnel — ask when you call.

If you cannot reach your installation's ID card office by phone, check the base website for the office location and hours, or visit in person during business hours. Many installations now use online scheduling portals, but these are base-specific and not linked to a single system.

Key Takeaways

• Call your installation's ID card office directly to schedule — there is no single national booking system for CAC appointments.
• Bring a valid photo ID, your military ID or orders, and proof of residence if you are a new cardholder or updating your address.
• Processing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes on the day of your appointment, though the card itself may arrive by mail a few days later.
• If your installation has a walk-in window, you may not need an appointment, but calling ahead saves you a trip.
• Retirees, family members, and contractors should confirm they are may be able to access and ask about any additional documents needed before arriving.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring a current, valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you are active duty, bring your military ID or your orders. If you are a retiree, bring your retired military ID or your DD Form 2 (retired). If you are a family member or dependent, bring proof of your relationship to the sponsor, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate.

Proof of residence is required if you are a new cardholder or if you have moved since your last ID card was issued. A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. If you do not have a current address on file with your branch, ask the ID card office what documents they accept.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will also need to know your military affiliation — your branch, rank or status, and duty station. If you are updating an existing CAC card, bring the old card with you.

How long the appointment takes and when you get your card

The appointment itself usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes. The ID card office will take your photo, verify your documents, and process your information into the system. You will sign forms and may be fingerprinted depending on your affiliation and the office's procedures.

You do not always leave with your card the same day. Many installations print the card on-site, so you may walk out with it in hand. Others mail the card to your address within three to five business days. Ask the ID card office which process they use before you leave.

If your card is mailed, the office will give you a receipt or temporary ID that you can use for base access until the card arrives. Keep this receipt safe — you may need it to enter the base or access military facilities.

Who can get a CAC card and who cannot

Active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, retirees, and certain civilian employees and contractors can get a CAC card. Family members and dependents of sponsors can also get a CAC card, though the process and may be able to access rules vary by branch and installation.

You must pass a background check to receive a CAC card. If you have a disqualifying criminal conviction, certain mental health holds, or other security concerns, you may be denied. The ID card office will tell you if there is a problem before your appointment or during processing.

Non-citizens can get a CAC card if they are employed by the Department of Defense or a military contractor and have the required security clearance. Proof of legal status in the United States is required.

What to do if you cannot reach your installation's ID card office

If phone lines are busy or you cannot get through, try emailing the office directly. Most installations list an email address on their website. Include your name, rank or status, and the reason you are contacting them, and ask about appointment availability.

If you are stationed overseas or at a small installation without an on-site ID card office, you may be able to schedule an appointment at a nearby larger base. Ask your chain of command or your human resources office for the closest alternative location.

If you are a retiree or family member and cannot reach your home installation, some installations allow you to get your CAC card at any military installation with an ID card office. Call ahead to confirm they can process your category before making the trip.

Renewing or replacing a CAC card

CAC cards expire every five years for most cardholders. You will receive a notice before your card expires, usually 60 to 90 days in advance. Schedule your renewal appointment as soon as you get the notice — the ID card office may have a backlog near the expiration date.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, report it to your ID card office right away. You will need to schedule a replacement appointment and may be charged a fee depending on your branch and the reason for replacement. Bring your old card if you still have it, or a police report if it was stolen.

Renewal appointments follow the same process as initial appointments — bring your photo ID, proof of residence if your address has changed, and your current CAC card. The appointment usually takes the same amount of time.

What happens if you miss your appointment

If you cannot make your scheduled appointment, call the ID card office as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule. Many installations charge a no-show fee or require you to wait longer for the next available slot if you miss an appointment without notice.

If you are late to your appointment, call ahead and let the office know. Some offices will still see you if you are only a few minutes late, but others may reschedule you. It is better to call than to show up late and risk losing your slot.

If the ID card office closes or the appointment is cancelled on their end, they will contact you with a new date. Check your email and phone regularly in the weeks before your appointment in case the office needs to reach you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a CAC card appointment without being stationed at that base?

Yes, if you are a retiree, family member, or contractor. Many installations allow you to get your CAC card at any military installation with an ID card office, not just your home base. Call the office you plan to visit and confirm they can process your category before you go.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Some installations have walk-in hours for CAC card appointments, while others require you to schedule in advance. Call your ID card office to ask about their policy. Even if walk-ins are allowed, calling ahead can save you a wait.

What if I do not have a current address to put on my CAC card?

You must provide a current address for your CAC card. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent residence, ask the ID card office what address you can use — some allow a military mailbox or a temporary address. Bring whatever proof of residence you have.

How much does a CAC card cost?

Initial CAC cards are free for active-duty service members, retirees, and most family members. Replacement cards may have a fee if the card was lost or damaged due to carelessness. Ask the ID card office about fees when you call to schedule.

Can I get a CAC card if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the conviction. Felonies and certain misdemeanors can disqualify you. The ID card office will run a background check and tell you if there is a problem. If you are unsure, ask before your appointment rather than waiting to find out during processing.