University Identification Card (UT ID)

The University of Texas at Austin issues official identification (ID) cards to individuals recognized as being affiliated with the university. The UT ID Policy requires individuals to show their affiliation with the university and identify themselves to utilize campus services and facilities.

All new UT ID cards have a built-in chip that is programmed for use with the Building Access Control System (BACS) system. These cards allow you to access certain restricted areas, buildings and rooms on campus.

If you need access to a restricted area, your card will need to be programmed by your Department Badge Administrator to grant you access to the restricted area. Proximity ID cards are issued by the ID Center but each department grants access to individual users.

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Eligibility

Current students, faculty, and staff may obtain a UT ID card upon request.

University Affiliates (including Official Visitors) must have their department ensure they are eligible for an ID card in Workday.

Visitors, including visiting scientists, consultants, vendors, contractors and other affiliated personnel.

• Who are authorized to be on university premises unescorted, and authorized to use the services and facilities under a department’s sponsorship

If someone has an active, valid standard UT ID card without building access features, they may trade their old card for a new BACS-enabled card at no cost. They must present the old card at the time of the replacement.

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Gaining Access to a Restricted Area

Once you have your UT ID card, your card must be granted access by your Department Badge Administrator. Generally, your program coordinator or human resources personnel will be able to identify your Department Badge Administrator.

Building managers may also be able to grant restricted access if needed.

For further assistance locating your Department Badge Administrator, call the UT Service Desk at (512) 475-9400.

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Your ID is your Key

A safe environment is the cornerstone of a high-quality education. As part of its ongoing campus safety and security, the university also has implemented a building and facility access policy. Your UT ID serves as your key to access campus buildings with “celebrated entrances", a main entrance of a building that may include an oversized entry gate or door with signage uniquely identifying it from other entry points.

After regular operating hours, all general-purpose classroom (GPC) buildings have the ability to lock down and/or allow entry with a UT ID. If you need to access a classroom or lab after hours, your UT ID is your key for entry. For example,

• GPC buildings are required to be accessible from 6 a.m. to 11:45 pm, seven days a week and during university holidays
• GPC buildings and facilities may open at 6 a.m., Monday-Friday and remain open until 7 p.m. At 7 p.m., GPC buildings and facilities may transition to restricted access hours and all students, faculty, staff, and university personnel are required to enter through the buildings’ celebrated entrances.

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Replacement Cards

If your UT ID card has been lost or stolen, immediately deactivate it.

Important: If you have access to a highly secured area, you must also report your lost card to UTPD by calling (512) 471-4441 immediately.

You may visit the ID Center to obtain a replacement card or request a replacement online. You will be responsible for the costs of the replacement card. Your building access permissions should transfer automatically from the old card to the new card. Contact your Department Badge Administrator if your access did not transfer correctly.

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Troubleshooting

There are a few scenarios in which your UT ID card may no longer work.

• If you are no longer a student or an employee of the university, your card will be automatically deactivated. If your card needs to be reactivated, you must bring it to the ID Center.
• If the card reader does not beep, your card may be defective. Bring it to the ID Center for testing.
• If you can access other secured areas, but not a particular secured area, please contact your Department Badge Administrator to verify your access.
• If nobody can access a particular secured area, please contact your Department Badge Administrator to troubleshoot.

If you have any issues not covered above or require additional assistance, call the UT Service Desk at (512) 475-9400.

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Helpful Tips

In addition to identifying your student affiliation to UT Austin, your UT ID gives you access to “celebrated entrances” designed for your safety and security while on campus after hours. it’s important to remember these tips:

• Always carry your UT ID with you
• It is for your use only
• Never loan your UT ID to anyone or ask to borrow someone else’s ID
• Your ID is your key to enter many buildings, corridors, libraries, labs, and facilities during restricted access hours
• Contact the UT Service Desk for technical support at 512-475-9400 or visit our In-Person Services Desk, which includes ID Card Services, in the Flawn Academic Center (FAC) lobby.

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