Photo ID card now available for lawyers in practice

New Zealand lawyers who hold a current practising certificate are now able to obtain a photo ID card.

The optional cards are issued by the New Zealand Law Society and have been produced in response to demand from lawyers wanting a portable form of ID to assist in matters such as passing through courthouse security, for Family Court activities and prison visits.

Lawyers may obtain a card from any of 93 AA drivers licensing centres and agencies around New Zealand, under an agreement between the Law Society and the AA.

Required identification for card applicants is a current practising certificate and some government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s licence. The cards cost $18.50 (GST included). Following production of appropriate ID and creation of a digital signature and photograph, the cards are processed by the AA and mailed to the recipient a few days later.

The Law Society reports that there is a high level of interest from lawyers in the cards.

© New Zealand Law Society 2008