All Northeastern Illinois University students are required to have a Northeastern photo identification (ID) card issued by the University.

Northeastern photo ID cards are mandatory to:

  • Check out books and materials from the Library.
  • Gain access to the Physical Education Complex for classes or recreational activities.
  • Verify status for University-sponsored events and activities.
  • Pick up checks disbursed by the University.
  • Request information regarding your records at the Enrollment Services Center, Cashier’s Office, Student Loan Office and Accounts Receivable.
  • Print, copy and scan documents at the University printers and multifunction devices.

Northeastern photo ID card can also be used as an add-value card in photocopiers, computer lab printers and Library microfilm printers. The magnetic strip on the back of the ID card can be encoded with a dollar value up to $25. To encode (or increase) the dollar value on an ID card, go to an on-campus "Add Value" station. Insert the card and a $5, $10 or $20 bill and the dollar value on the magnetic strip will be increased by that amount. Each time the ID card is used for a purchase, the dollar value encoded on the magnetic strip will be reduced by the amount of the transaction.

All newly admitted students are able to obtain an NEIU ID card free of charge. Students can request an ID card remotely by completing the New Student ID Card Request Form and uploading a picture.

Students who are unable to request an ID card remotely can visit the Welcome Desk in Village Square (across from the Bookstore) to have a photo taken and receive their NEIU ID card on site. The fall Welcome Desk hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday.

For returning students, faculty or staff who need a replacement ID, both in-person and remote options are also available. The cost for a replacement ID is $10 for students, faculty and staff, and $25 for Nest residents or Proximity Card users. Complete the Replacement ID Card Request Form and submit payment via the NEIU Box Office, selecting the appropriate payment option. All cash transactions must be made in person at the Welcome Desk.

If you have any questions regarding this process, please email welcome-desk@neiu.edu, or stop by the Welcome Desk.

(Note: A replacement ID card resulting from damage or name change will be replaced at no cost as long as the original ID is presented at the time of replacement.)