When does the PSC expire?
Public Services Cards are issued with an expiry date, typically 10 years from the date of issue for adults. Children's cards expire sooner — usually at age 18 or after a shorter period.
The DSP should write to you before your card expires to prompt renewal. If you have not received a renewal notice and your card is approaching expiry, contact the DSP directly.
How to renew
Renewal does not always require a new SAFE appointment. In many cases, you can renew by contacting DSP — particularly if your details have not changed significantly and you were registered at SAFE Level 2 previously.
Standard renewal (no change in appearance)
- Contact DSP or your Intreo office
- Confirm your identity details
- New card issued and posted
- No appointment needed in most cases
If your appearance has changed significantly
- You may need to attend in person for a new photograph
- Book a SAFE appointment through your local Intreo centre
- Bring identity documents and proof of address
What happens when your card expires
An expired PSC is no longer valid as identity verification. Your SAFE registration record remains active, but you will need a new card before you can use the PSC for identity purposes or MyGovID verification. DSP services linked to your registration continue unaffected by the card expiry — it is only the physical card's use as ID that is affected.