Technology has come a long way when it comes to make a picture ID card.  Until ID card printers, digital cameras, and computers became commonplace, photo ID cards were made and laminated by hand.  First, the card maker would put the information on a blank card template – either using a typewriter, word processor, or by hand.  Next, the card holder's picture would be taken, usually with an instant ID camera such as a Polaroid. The portrait would be cut out to the size of the photo field on the card template, and glued down. Finally, the ID card would be laminated with a special machine to ensure durability and prevent tampering.

The advent of modern picture ID machines has made the ID making process much more efficient and secure. Thanks to advanced security features in card printers and ID card software, operators are able to place advanced security features like watermarks, magnetic stripes and barcodes on security cards with ease. Advances in digital photography have also improved the quality of photos on the card. High quality cards printed on plastic cards, also commonly called PVC cards, are also more durable than their outdated, handmade counterparts.