Membership cards, loyalty cards, employee ID badges, and even drivers licenses are all printed on plastic PVC cards. Long-lasting and durable, PVC cards have become the industry standard for all ID card programs.

Why print on PVC? There are a number of reasons. The cards are graphic-quality, with a smooth surface well-suited for today's ID card printing technologies. Images and text come out clear and detailed with vivid colors. The cards hold up well over time, and they can even incorporate advanced security features such as magnetic stripes and smart chips.

PVC cards come in a variety of sizes. The most common PVC card is the CR-80, which measures 30 milimeters in thickness, and has the same dimensions as your typical credit card. CR-80 cards are compatible with virtually any ID card printer. Other available options include 14 and 10 mil PVC cards, adhesive sticky-back back cards, signature panel cards, and oversized CR-100 cards (which typically require a special printer). Depending on the needs of your ID program, you can also use PVC cards with a magnetic stripe or embedded electronics, such as a smart chip, for heightened security and advanced functionality.