Collection: Blank Card Stock

What Are Blank ID Cards?

Blank ID cards are unpersonalized plastic cards designed specifically for printing with desktop ID card printers. Made primarily from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or composite PVC materials, these cards provide a smooth, durable surface that accepts thermal transfer printing, allowing you to create customized identification cards with photos, text, logos, barcodes, and other elements.

Standard Card Specifications:

• Size: CR80 (3.375" x 2.125" / 85.6mm x 54mm) – standard credit card dimensions
• Thickness: 30 mil (0.76mm) – standard thickness for most card printers and wallet compatibility
• Material: PVC plastic or composite PVC (PVC with PET core for added durability)
• Finish: Glossy or matte, depending on card type and application needs

Common Blank Card Types:

Standard White PVC Cards: Blank white cards with glossy or matte finish, ideal for full-color printing on both sides. The most popular and economical choice for employee IDs, student badges, and general identification.

Colored PVC Cards: Pre-colored blank cards in blue, red, green, gold, silver, black, and other hues. Perfect for color-coding departments, access levels, or membership tiers without printing full-color backgrounds.

Specialty Finish Cards: Cards with metallic, glitter, pearl, or translucent finishes that add visual appeal to loyalty programs, VIP memberships, or premium credentials.

Magnetic Stripe Cards: Blank cards with magnetic stripes (HiCo or LoCo) on the reverse side for encoding data used in access control, time attendance, payment, or library systems.

Proximity & Smart Cards: Cards with embedded RFID chips or contactless technology (125 kHz proximity, 13.56 MHz MIFARE, DESFire, iCLASS) for keyless access control and secure authentication.

Pre-Punched Cards: Cards with pre-installed slot holes for attaching to lanyards or badge reels, saving you the time and equipment cost of punching cards yourself.

Adhesive-Back Cards: Cards with peel-and-stick adhesive backing (Mylar adhesive) for affixing to existing non-card credentials or for special applications.

Rewritable Cards: Special cards with a rewritable surface that allows you to print, erase, and reprint information multiple times using compatible rewritable printers — ideal for temporary badges or frequently updated credentials.

Key Features & Benefits

Universal Printer Compatibility

Our blank cards are designed to work seamlessly with all major ID card printer brands including Fargo, Evolis, Zebra, Magicard, Datacard, and others. Compatible with both direct-to-card and retransfer printing technologies for reliable performance.

CR80 Standard Size

All our cards conform to CR80 credit card dimensions (3.375" x 2.125"), ensuring compatibility with standard badge holders, lanyards, wallets, and card readers used across industries worldwide.

High-Quality PVC Construction

Premium PVC plastic delivers smooth, consistent print surfaces that accept color brilliantly while providing the durability and flexibility needed for daily use without cracking or breaking.

Consistent Print Quality

Engineered for optimal thermal transfer printing, our cards produce sharp text, vibrant colors, clear photos, and crisp barcodes every time you print, eliminating waste from print failures.

Extended Card Lifespan

High-quality PVC cards resist fading, scratching, and wear from daily handling, wallet storage, and repeated card reader use. Cards remain professional-looking and functional for years.

Wide Color Selection

Choose from standard white, classic colors (blue, red, green, yellow, orange, purple), metallic finishes (gold, silver), specialty options (glitter, pearl, translucent), and custom Pantone-matched colors for brand alignment.

How to Choose the Right Blank Cards

Step 1: Verify Printer Compatibility

Check Your Printer Type:

• Direct-to-Card Printers: Use standard PVC or composite PVC cards. Most economical and widely compatible.
• Retransfer Printers: Can use standard PVC, composite, or technology cards (smart cards with uneven surfaces). Provides edge-to-edge printing.

Confirm Card Specifications:

Most printers accept standard CR80, 30-mil cards, but always verify your printer's specifications for supported card types, especially if using technology cards (magnetic stripe, proximity, smart cards).

Step 2: Determine Your Card Purpose

Standard Employee/Student IDs:

Standard white PVC cards (glossy or matte) provide the most economical solution for general identification with full-color printing capabilities.

Access Control & Security:

Choose proximity cards (HID, Indala, AWID) or smart cards (MIFARE, DESFire, iCLASS) compatible with your access control system. Magnetic stripe cards work for legacy systems.

Loyalty & Membership Programs:

Colored cards, metallic finishes, or specialty cards with glitter/pearl effects create premium credentials that customers perceive as valuable and are less likely to discard.

Visitor Badges:

Rewritable cards allow you to issue, erase, and reuse visitor badges repeatedly, reducing long-term costs. Alternatively, use economical standard white cards for disposable visitor passes.

Gift Cards & Payment:

Magnetic stripe cards (HiCo for durability) or smart cards with payment chip technology, depending on your payment processing system requirements.

Step 3: Select Card Color & Finish

Standard White:

Most versatile option for full-color printing. Provides clean canvas for photos, logos, and colorful designs. Most economical choice.

Solid Colors:

Pre-colored cards (blue, red, green, gold, etc.) eliminate the need to print solid backgrounds, saving ribbon costs. Ideal for color-coding departments or access levels.

Metallic Finishes:

Gold, silver, or metallic cards create premium appearance for VIP programs, executive credentials, or special recognition badges.

Specialty Finishes:

Glitter, pearl, translucent, or frosted cards add unique visual appeal for loyalty programs, event credentials, or creative applications where standing out matters.

Step 4: Choose Technology Features

No Technology (Visual ID Only):

Standard PVC cards without magnetic stripes or chips. Most economical. Sufficient for visual identification without electronic access or data storage.

Magnetic Stripe:

• HiCo (High Coercivity): More durable, resists demagnetization, recommended for frequent use (access control, time attendance). More expensive.
• LoCo (Low Coercivity): Less expensive, adequate for low-frequency use (gift cards, library cards). More susceptible to demagnetization.

Proximity Cards (125 kHz):

For legacy access control systems. Common formats include HID Prox, Indala, AWID. Verify compatibility with your specific access control system before ordering.

Contactless Smart Cards (13.56 MHz):

Modern high-security credentials with encrypted data storage. Common types include MIFARE Classic, MIFARE DESFire EV1/EV2, iCLASS, and iCLASS SE. Higher security, higher cost.

Dual Technology:

Cards combining proximity and smart chip technology for systems transitioning from old to new technology or requiring multiple credential functions.

Step 5: Decide on Pre-Punched vs. Unpunched

Pre-Punched Cards:

• Cards arrive with slot hole already punched in standard position
• Saves time when issuing high volumes
• Eliminates need to purchase slot punch equipment
• Ideal if all cards will use lanyards or badge reels

Unpunched Cards:

• Maximum flexibility in punch position (or no punch at all)
• Cleaner appearance if cards will be carried in wallets
• Required if using clip-on badge holders that don't need holes
• Allows you to punch only cards that need attachment hardware

Step 6: Calculate Quantity Needs

• Small organizations (under 100 cards/year): Order 100-250 count boxes
• Medium organizations (100-1,000 cards/year): Order 500-count boxes for better per-card pricing
• Large organizations (1,000+ cards/year): Order 1,000+ count boxes or multiple boxes for maximum savings

Factor in Waste & Reprints:

Always order 10-15% more than your exact needs to account for printing errors, test prints, reprints, and new hires/students.

Storage Considerations:

Blank cards have long shelf life when stored properly (cool, dry location). Buying larger quantities saves money, but ensure you have appropriate storage space.

Why Choose Specialist ID for Blank ID Cards?

20+ Years of Card Stock Expertise

Since 2001, we've specialized in ID card printing supplies across every industry. Our team understands card specifications, printer compatibility, technology integration, and application requirements — not just product sales.

Comprehensive Card Selection

Unlike retailers offering limited inventory, we stock the complete range of blank cards including standard white PVC, dozens of colors, specialty finishes, magnetic stripe cards, proximity cards, smart cards, composite cards, and rewritable cards.

US-Based Manufacturing Partnerships

We work with trusted US-based manufacturers ensuring consistent quality, reliable supply chains, and cards that meet North American standards for dimensions, materials, and technology compatibility.

Guaranteed Printer Compatibility

All our blank cards are tested and verified to work with major printer brands including Fargo, Evolis, Zebra, Magicard, Datacard, and others. We'll help you select cards optimized for your specific printer model.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What size are standard blank ID cards?

Standard blank ID cards are CR80 size (3.375" x 2.125" or 85.6mm x 54mm) — the same dimensions as credit cards. This universal size ensures compatibility with all standard badge holders, lanyards, wallets, and card readers worldwide.

What does "30 mil" thickness mean?

30 mil (0.76mm) is the standard thickness for ID cards, providing the right balance of durability and flexibility. It matches credit card thickness, ensuring cards fit in wallets and work with standard card readers and printers.

Will these cards work with my ID card printer?

Most blank PVC cards work with all major ID card printer brands (Fargo, Evolis, Zebra, Magicard, Datacard). However, verify compatibility before purchasing, especially for technology cards. Call us at 1-800-380-6726 with your printer model for confirmation.

What's the difference between PVC and composite PVC cards?

Standard PVC cards are 100% polyvinyl chloride plastic. Composite PVC cards have a PVC coating over a PET (polyester) core, making them more durable and resistant to warping at high temperatures — required for some retransfer and laminating printers.

Can I print on both sides of blank cards?

Yes! All our blank cards can be printed on both sides if you have a duplex (dual-sided) printer. Single-sided printers can only print one side, leaving the reverse blank.

What's the difference between glossy and matte finish cards?

Glossy cards have a shiny finish that produces vibrant colors and sharp photo quality but shows fingerprints more easily. Matte cards have a non-reflective finish that hides fingerprints better and provides a more subdued, professional appearance.

What are magnetic stripe cards used for?

Magnetic stripe cards store data on the magnetic stripe (like credit cards) for applications including access control, time and attendance tracking, library systems, payment cards, and loyalty programs. Requires a printer with magnetic encoding capability.

What's the difference between HiCo and LoCo magnetic stripes?

HiCo (High Coercivity) stripes are more durable and resist demagnetization from phones, magnets, and repeated use — recommended for access control. LoCo (Low Coercivity) stripes are less expensive but more easily erased — suitable for gift cards or low-use applications.

Do proximity cards require special printers?

Proximity and smart cards can be printed on most ID card printers just like standard cards. However, you need a printer with encoding capability (or separate encoder) to program the chip with access control data.

Can I reuse or erase printed cards?

Standard PVC cards cannot be erased once printed. However, rewritable cards with special thermal rewritable coating can be erased and reprinted hundreds of times using compatible rewritable printers — ideal for temporary visitor badges.

Should I buy pre-punched or unpunched cards?

Choose pre-punched cards if all your credentials will attach to lanyards or badge reels — saves time and eliminates the need for slot punch equipment. Choose unpunched for maximum flexibility or if cards will be carried in wallets.

How should I store unused blank cards?

Store cards in their original packaging in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and extreme temperatures (50-80°F ideal). Keep boxes sealed to prevent dust and moisture exposure.

What's the shelf life of blank PVC cards?

When stored properly, blank PVC cards have an indefinite shelf life. However, technology cards (proximity, smart cards) should be used within 3-5 years to ensure chip functionality and compatibility with evolving systems.

Can I order cards in custom colors?

Yes! For orders meeting minimum quantities (typically 500-1,000 cards), we can source custom Pantone-matched colored cards to align perfectly with your brand colors. Contact us at 1-800-380-6726 for custom color quotes.

Are colored cards more expensive than white cards?

Colored cards typically cost slightly more than standard white cards but can save money long-term by eliminating the need to print solid color backgrounds, reducing ribbon consumption and print time.

Do you offer biodegradable or eco-friendly cards?

Yes! We offer composite PVC cards (with recyclable PET cores) and biodegradable card options for organizations prioritizing environmental sustainability. Contact us for eco-friendly card options and availability.

Can I print photos on colored cards?

Yes, but photo quality will be affected by the background color. For best photo results, use white cards or cards with white printable patches. Colored cards work best for designs using the colored background with limited photo areas.

What if I receive defective cards?

Contact us immediately at 1-800-380-6726. We'll replace defective cards quickly at no charge. Defects are rare with our quality-controlled products, but we stand behind everything we sell.

Can I get samples before ordering in bulk?

Yes! We offer sample cards so you can test quality, printer compatibility, and appearance before placing large orders. Visit our Sample Request page or email us to request samples.

Ready to stock up on premium blank ID cards?

Browse our complete selection of blank card stock in white, colors, specialty finishes, and technology options, or call 1-800-380-6726 to speak with a specialist who can help you choose the perfect cards for your printer and application.

Talk to a live specialist: 1‑800‑380‑6726

Enterprise sales and quotes: 888‑559‑1940

Email: Sales@SpecialistID.com

Sample requests: Visit our Sample Request page or email us