You’ll need a verified MyGovID account to renew your Public Services Card. If you don't have a verified MyGovID account, you can create one here.

Why renew your Public Services Card?

The Public Services Card helps you to access a range of public services in an easy and safe way. If you are a Free Travel customer, an in date Public Services Card is required for you to use this service. 

To ensure no interruption in services we recommend that you renew your Public Services Card before it expires.

Click here to learn more about the Public Services Card

Who can renew their Public Services Card using MyWelfare?

You can renew your Public Services Card online if:

  • You have a Public Services Card that is due to expire in the next 45 days or which has already expired
  • You are 18 years of age or over
  • You live in any of the 32 counties of Ireland
  • You have informed the Department about any change to your name since your last Public Services Card was issued

What kind of photo do I need to upload?

MyWelfare will check your uploaded photo to make sure it meets our requirements. You must follow these guidelines when taking your photo:

Background & lighting

  • Use a plain, light-coloured background. We cannot accept images with patterned or panelled backgrounds
  • Include only your head, shoulders and chest
  • Leave space between you and the edge of the photo
  • The photo must be in full colour and have even lighting with no shadows


Facial features & expression

  • Look directly at the camera
  • Have your face and eyes fully visible
  • You must not wear glasses in the photo
  • Have a neutral expression with your mouth closed
  • Do not use a filter or digitally enhance the photo in any way


Technical guidelines

  • Ensure the picture is not blurry, pixelated or low resolution
  • Upload a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
  • Your photo must be taken by someone else. Please do not take a selfie
  • Do not use a filter or digitally enhance the photo in any way
  • Do not upload a photo of a photo


You can find out more about the kind of photo you need to upload by watching our video.

What do I need to do to renew my Public Services Card?

You must have a verified MyGovID account

You can verify your account on MyGovID.

Confirm your personal details

For security we will need you to confirm your personal information is correct.

Confirm your address

We will need to confirm that you’re living at the same address.

Upload a recent digital photo

You will be asked to upload a recent photograph that meets particular criteria similar to a passport photograph.

Why do I need to provide a recent photo?

Your photograph will appear on your Public Services Card. As a number of years have passed since your last card was issued, you must provide a new photograph that reflects your current appearance.

What should I do if my Public Services Card is lost?

If your Public Services Card is lost, stolen or damaged, you should immediately contact the Public Services Card Helpdesk at 0818 837000

How is the information that I provided for my Public Services Card stored?

For more information on how the government stores personal information please visit Gov.ie SAFE registration.

Public Services Card Renewal
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You’ll need a verified MyGovID account to renew your Public Services Card. If you don't have a verified MyGovID account, you can create one here.