When it comes to creating ID cards for your organization, one of the fundamental considerations is choosing the right size. Different sizes serve different purposes and understanding the most common ID card sizes can help you make an informed decision that meets your specific needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the three most common ID card sizes and their typical applications.

1. CR80 – The Standard ID Card Size

Dimensions: 3.375 x 2.125 inches (85.6 x 54 mm)

Description: The CR80 size is the most widely used and recognized ID card size. It is the standard size for most identification cards, similar in dimensions to a credit card.

Applications:

• Employee ID Cards: Most organizations use CR80 cards for employee identification due to their convenient size and compatibility with standard ID card printers.
• Membership Cards: Gyms, clubs, and other membership-based organizations prefer CR80 cards for their members.
• Access Control: CR80 cards are commonly used in access control systems, as their size fits perfectly in card readers and slots.
• Bank Cards: Credit and debit cards also use the CR80 size, making it a familiar format for most people.

Advantages:

• Compatibility: CR80 cards are compatible with a wide range of ID card printers and accessories such as badge holders and lanyards.
• Portability: Their compact size makes them easy to carry in a wallet or cardholder.
• Versatility: Suitable for a variety of applications, from employee IDs to membership and loyalty cards.

2. CR79 – Slightly Smaller Adhesive Card for Special Applications

Dimensions: 3.303 x 2.051 inches (83.9 x 51.8 mm)

Description: The CR79 size is slightly smaller than the standard CR80 card. It is typically used with adhesive-backed cards that can be affixed to proximity cards or smart cards.

Applications:

• Dual-Technology Cards: CR79 cards are often used with smart cards where an adhesive-backed ID card is applied to a technology card for dual use.
• Photos and Design on Cards: In access control systems, CR79 cards can be adhered to proximity cards to combine photo identification with access capabilities.
• Temporary ID Cards: Organizations might use CR79 cards for temporary IDs that can be easily removed and replaced.

Advantages:

• Adhesive Backing: CR79 cards with adhesive backing can be easily attached to other cards, providing flexibility for multi-functional use.
• Customization: Their smaller size and adhesive nature make them ideal for specific applications that require customization.

3. CR100 – Larger for Better Visibility

Dimensions: 3.88 x 2.63 inches (98.5 x 67 mm)

Description: The CR100 size is larger than both the CR80 and CR79 cards, providing a bigger surface area for displaying information. This size is particularly useful in environments where visibility is crucial.

Applications:

• Visitor Badges: CR100 cards are often used for visitor badges to ensure the visitor’s identification is clearly visible.
• Event Passes: At conferences, trade shows, and other large events, CR100 cards serve as event passes or VIP badges.
• Larger Text and Photos: For applications requiring more detailed information or larger photos, CR100 cards offer the necessary space.

Advantages:

• Increased Visibility: The larger size allows for more prominent display of photos and text, making it easier to identify individuals from a distance.
• Detailed Information: More space means more room for important details such as names, titles, and additional security features.
• Specialized Uses: Ideal for events and settings where quick and clear identification is essential.

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Choosing the right ID card size is crucial for meeting your organization’s identification needs effectively. The CR80 is the go-to standard for most applications due to its versatility and compatibility. For special use cases, the CR79 provides a customizable option, while the CR100 offers increased visibility and space for detailed information. At ProxCards.com, we provide a wide range of ID card sizes and printing solutions to cater to all your identification needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products and find the perfect ID card size for your requirements.