When were Identity cards introduced during World War II?

Identity cards were introduced during the War under the National Registration Act 1939.

Everyone, including children, had to carry an identity (ID) card at all times to show who they were and where they lived. Why was it important to carry an ID card during the war? Identification was necessary if families got separated from one another or their house was bombed, and if people were injured or killed. Dimensions: Length:12.5cm

Inside the Identity Card

Inside the identity card was the owner's name and address, including changes of address.

The identity card below belonged to Doris Corri. It was issued in 1943 when the blue card was introduced for adults. Until then, adult identity cards had been brown, the same colour as children's cards.

The sections in the card showing the change in address were important, as many people moved several times during the war. Why do you think they did move?

Doris moved house three times between 1943 and 1945. She went to stay with relatives in Yorkshire.

When did people stop carrying Indentity cards?

People had to carry identity cards where ever they went until seven years after the end of the war in 1952.