Identity Cards

Your UCL identity card combines identity, access control and library access on one card. Once registered the card can also be used in the Bloomsbury Fitness Centre.

All cards have the same design; however, different coloured banners are used to identify different groups. For example, all cards for Staff have an orange banner and Visitors have a black banner, whilst cards for Students feature other colours.

The front of the card has the holder's name, faculty/department, photograph, UCL Person Identifier and card expiry date.

On the reverse of the card are printed the card holder's library barcode (where applicable), eye-readable barcode number and card issue number. The barcode is passed automatically to the library membership database (an overnight process), so for the majority of card holders there is no need to visit the library to complete the registration process. Cardholders wishing to use library facilities immediately will need to present their card at any library site for manual update of their membership record.

How do I acquire a UCL identity card?

Cards are issued by Security Systems in the Andrew Huxley Building. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4.45pm.

Please bring one form of personal identification (e.g. bank card, driving licence, etc.) You do not need to bring a photo. Security Systems will take your photograph before your card is issued.

What happens if my UCL identity card is lost or stolen?

If a card is lost or stolen during its period of validity the first replacement will be free but a £15 administration fee will be charged on any subsequent occasion where replacement is requested for reasons other than card expiry. In such circumstances a voucher must be bought from the UCL shop and then be taken to Security Systems, where a new card will be issued.

What are the standards for photographs on the UCL identity card?

Photographs on UCL identity cards adhere to the same internationally agreed standards as the Home Office Identity & Passport Service.

The photograph Security Systems will take of you for use with the card is required to show:

• no shadows
• you facing forwards, looking straight towards the camera
• a neutral expression, with your mouth closed
• your eyes open and clearly visible (with no sunglasses or heavily tinted glasses, and no hair across your eyes)
• no reflection or glare on your glasses, and the frames should not cover your eyes (you may find it easier to remove your glasses)
• your full head, without any head covering, unless it is worn for religious beliefs or medical reasons; and
• nothing covering your face. Please make sure nothing covers the outline of your eyes, nose or mouth.

A guide to the necessary standards can be downloaded here.

I find it difficult to get to the Andrew Huxley Building. Are there alternative means of obtaining the card?

For staff, students or visitors who are registered disabled and for whom it is impractical to visit the Security Systems office other arrangements will be made. Please contact the Security Systems Supervisor in this instance.

Similarly, for groups of staff, students or visitors from off-site institutes other arrangements may be available. Please contact the Security Systems Supervisor for details.

For more information please visit http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/security/systems or contact Security Systems on extension 32100.

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