Law enforcement ID cards serve a number of highly important functions. They allow the public to identify police officers and enforcement agents, and offer assurance that the cardholders aren't imposters. Because of the importance of these cards, it's critical that they include features which will prevent tampering and counterfeiting. Most Police ID cards will incorporate security elements such as holographic overlays and logos, along with the cardholder's signature and fingerprint.

Other elements commonly found on police ID cards include a high-quality image of the officer, and identification information such as the cardholder's name, department and job title.

Technological advancements have also allowed many police departments to enhance the functionality of their ID cards. With components like embedded smart chips and proximity technology, police IDs can be integrated with access control systems and store secure encrypted information. Additionally, they can help control access to computer networks, police services, and sensitive data.