The government is encouraging thousands of former Armed Forces personnel to get a new digital identification card, after downloads passed the 23,000 mark. With Remembrance Sunday falling on November 8, ministers are stepping up efforts to raise awareness among veterans of the Digital Veteran Card and how it could help them access discounts, healthcare, and other services.
What is the Digital Veteran Card?
Launched in October 2025, the digital card gives former military personnel a convenient way to carry proof of their service on their mobile phones, removing the need to rely solely on a physical identification card.
Veterans can use it to demonstrate their military background when accessing offers at participating shops, restaurants and visitor attractions. It can also help them confirm their veteran status when registering with a GP or seeking appropriate healthcare assistance.
Government push ahead of Remembrance Sunday
The latest figures show that more than 23,000 digital cards have already been downloaded, as ministers encourage more eligible veterans to take advantage of the scheme.
Stephanie Peacock, Minister for Digital Government, said: "Remembrance Sunday is when our whole country comes together to honour the courage, service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces community. We must never forget those who have served our country, or the debt of gratitude we owe them.
"Our veterans deserve recognition not just on Remembrance Sunday, but throughout the year. The digital Veteran Card is a practical way to do that, making it easier for veterans to prove their service, keep their card close at hand and access discounts at participating shops, restaurants and attractions."
Peacock added: "More than 23,000 digital Veteran Cards have now been downloaded. I want more veterans to know about the benefits their card can offer and have the choice to carry proof of their service wherever they go."
How can veterans get the digital card?
The Digital Veteran Card is accessed through the GOV.UK One Login app. However, there is an important requirement: veterans must first have applied for their physical Veteran Card and had it fully processed and dispatched.
Once that stage has been completed, they can apply for the digital version and keep their proof of service readily available on their smartphone.
Veterans Minister Calvin Bailey MP, who previously served in the Royal Air Force and has his own digital card, also encouraged former service personnel to sign up. He said the Government wanted to make it easier for veterans to access the support and entitlements available to them, highlighting the potential benefits for specialist healthcare and everyday shopping.
Calvin urged veterans who have not yet applied to consider getting their card, whether they choose the traditional physical version or the digital alternative.
With more than 23,000 downloads already recorded, the latest campaign aims to ensure that former service personnel know how to access the identification and benefits available to them.
