The PSC — a physical card
The Public Services Card is a physical plastic card issued by the Department of Social Protection. It proves you have been through SAFE identity verification. It is used for in-person interactions with DSP and as general photo ID.
MyGovID — a digital identity platform
MyGovID (mygovid.ie) is Ireland's online identity verification system. It allows you to prove who you are online when accessing government services, without needing to attend in person. Think of it as a government-issued login that other government services trust.
There are two levels of MyGovID account:
Basic MyGovID account
- Created with an email address and verified mobile number
- Gives access to a limited set of services
- Does not require a PSC
- Cannot be used for passport applications, Revenue MyAccount, or DSP online services
Verified MyGovID account
- Requires a Public Services Card (SAFE Level 2 registration)
- Unlocks the full range of government digital services
- Can be used for Passport Online, Revenue MyAccount, DSP online services, driving licence renewal, and more
- Is the standard you need for most useful government interactions
How they connect
To upgrade from a basic to a verified MyGovID account, you use your PSC number and the mobile phone number registered to your PSC. The system cross-references your PSC data with your MyGovID account to verify your identity digitally.
This means getting a PSC is the practical prerequisite for full access to Irish digital government services. The PSC is the bridge between your in-person SAFE registration and your online government identity.
Services requiring verified MyGovID
Passport Online, Revenue MyAccount, most DSP online services, Citizens Information account services, driving licence renewal, and a growing range of HSE services all require a verified MyGovID — and therefore a PSC.