Access Control Cards: Secure Entry Solutions for Any Facility

Welcome to Plastic Card ID: Your National Source for Access Control Cards

Every secure door, every protected server room, every gated community - they all share one thing in common. They rely on access control cards to keep the right people in and the wrong people out. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent more than 25 years helping businesses, schools, hotels, and organizations across the country get exactly the cards they need, printed to perfection and shipped right to their door.

We are not just a card printer. We are a full-service partner who understands that your security needs are unique. Whether you need 50 cards or 50,000, we deliver quality that speaks for itself. Our team is ready to help you every step of the way, and you can reach us anytime at 800-835-7919.

From RFID smart cards to proximity cards and beyond, our product line covers every access control solution you can imagine. We ship to every corner of the country, so no matter where your business is located, we have you covered. Our customers keep coming back because we make the process simple, affordable, and reliable every single time.

What Are Access Control Cards?

Access control cards are plastic cards that allow or restrict entry to buildings, rooms, systems, or networks. They work using embedded technology like magnetic stripes, RFID chips, or smart card circuits that communicate with readers and control systems. Businesses of all sizes use them to manage who goes where, and when.

These cards are far more reliable than traditional keys. They can be reprogrammed, deactivated, or updated without ever changing a lock. This makes them a smarter, more flexible security solution for modern organizations that need to manage access quickly and efficiently.

We produce access control cards for a wide range of industries, including healthcare, education, government, hospitality, and corporate environments. Our cards meet industry standards and are fully compatible with major access control systems already in use across the country.

Who Needs Access Control Cards?

The short answer is: almost everyone. If your business or organization has spaces that need to be protected, or if you need to track who enters a building and when, access control cards are the answer. Schools protect students, hospitals secure medicine rooms, and offices guard sensitive data - all with the help of plastic access cards.

Hotels use access control cards as room keys that can be reprogrammed between guests. Data centers use them to ensure only authorized technicians reach critical equipment. Gyms, parking garages, and apartment complexes all benefit from the control and accountability that these cards provide.

We work with organizations ranging from small startups to Fortune 500 companies, and we bring the same level of dedication and craftsmanship to every single order. No job is too small, and no request is too complex for our experienced team to handle.

Why Choose Plastic Card ID for Your Access Control Cards?

We have helped over 100,000 businesses get the cards they need since our founding. That kind of experience means we have seen every challenge, solved every problem, and delivered results that our clients are proud of. Our reputation is built on trust, quality, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.

Our nationwide shipping means your cards arrive fast and in perfect condition, no matter where you are located. We package every order with care, and we stand behind every product we ship. If something is not right, we make it right - that is the Plastic Card ID promise.

We also offer card printers and all the refill supplies you need to print cards in-house, giving you even more flexibility and control over your access card program. Call us at 800-835-7919 to find out which solution fits your needs best.

Types of Access Control Cards We Offer

Card Type	Technology	Best For
Proximity Cards	125 kHz RFID	Office buildings, parking
Smart Cards	MIFARE / DESFire	High-security environments
Magnetic Stripe Cards	HiCo / LoCo Magstripe	Hotels, time tracking
Dual Interface Cards	Contact Contactless	Government, healthcare
Barcode Cards	1D / 2D Barcode	Libraries, membership clubs

Not all access control cards are the same. The technology inside your card determines how it talks to the reader, how secure it is, and how easily it can be managed. We offer a complete lineup of card technologies so you can choose exactly the right tool for your security environment.

Our team can help you navigate the differences between card types and match you with the right product for your system. We take the guesswork out of ordering, so you get cards that work perfectly right out of the box.

Proximity Cards and Contactless RFID

Proximity cards, often called prox cards, are among the most widely used access control cards in the world. They use radio frequency identification technology operating at 125 kHz, meaning they communicate with readers without any physical contact. A simple wave of the card near the reader grants or denies access in a split second.

These cards are durable, easy to use, and compatible with many of the most popular access control systems on the market today. We print them with your custom branding so they look professional while doing their security job behind the scenes. They are an excellent choice for office buildings, parking facilities, and multi-tenant properties.

Smart Cards with Advanced Encryption

For organizations that need a higher level of security, smart cards are the gold standard. They contain embedded microprocessors that store and process data, making them significantly harder to clone or counterfeit than basic proximity cards. Technologies like MIFARE DESFire offer military-grade encryption that protects sensitive access data.

Smart cards can also carry multiple applications on a single card. One card can serve as a building access pass, a computer login credential, and even a stored-value card for your company cafeteria - all at once. This versatility makes them an incredibly cost-effective investment for organizations with complex security needs.

We supply smart cards in a range of configurations and work with your IT team to ensure full compatibility with your existing infrastructure. Our expertise in this area means fewer headaches for you and a smoother rollout for your whole organization.

Magnetic Stripe and Barcode Access Cards

Magnetic stripe cards remain a dependable and affordable option for many access control applications. Used widely in hotels as room keys and in businesses for time and attendance tracking, these cards are straightforward, reliable, and easy to reprogram using standard card encoding equipment that we also supply.

Barcode cards offer a simple, low-cost way to manage access in lower-security environments like libraries, gyms, and membership clubs. They scan quickly, print easily, and can be integrated with most membership management software. We print both 1D and 2D barcodes with crisp, scan-ready precision on every card we produce.

Card Printers and In-House Printing Solutions

Sometimes the best solution is the ability to print your own cards on demand. We carry a full range of professional card printers from the leading brands in the industry, giving you the power to issue new access cards, update credentials, or replace lost cards immediately - without waiting for an outside order to arrive.

In-house printing gives your organization full control over your access card program. You decide when cards are printed, who gets them, and what information they carry. For organizations with high turnover or frequent credential changes, this kind of flexibility is absolutely invaluable.

Desktop Card Printers for Every Budget

We offer desktop card printers in a wide range of sizes and price points, from compact single-sided models perfect for small offices to high-volume dual-sided printers built for enterprise environments. Whether you print 10 cards a month or 10,000, we have a printer that fits your workflow and your budget.

Our printers are designed to work seamlessly with the access control cards we supply, ensuring that every card comes out perfectly encoded and beautifully printed. We provide setup guidance and ongoing support to make sure your team is printing with confidence from day one.

Printer prices generally range from $500-$3,000 depending on features and volume capacity. We help you match the right printer to your actual needs so you never overspend or underestimate your requirements.

Refill Supplies: Ribbons, Cleaning Kits, and More

A card printer is only as good as the supplies that feed it. We stock a comprehensive inventory of printer ribbons, cleaning kits, blank card stock, and overlaminates to keep your printer running at peak performance. Ordering supplies from us is simple, and we ship fast so you never run out at a critical moment.

Our ribbon selection includes full-color YMCKO ribbons, monochrome ribbons for black-and-white printing, and specialty ribbons with UV panels for added card security. We stock supplies for all major printer brands, so no matter what printer you are running, we have the refills you need.

• YMCKO full-color ribbons for vibrant photo-quality printing
• KO monochrome ribbons for quick, cost-effective single-color printing
• UV fluorescent ribbons for hidden security printing
• Cleaning kits to extend the life of your printer
• Holographic overlaminates for tamper-evident card security
• Blank PVC card stock in CR80 standard size

Getting the Most Out of Your Card Printer

Regular maintenance is the secret to a long-lasting, reliable card printer. We recommend running a cleaning card through your printer every time you load a new ribbon. This simple step removes dust and debris that can cause print defects, card jams, and costly repairs down the road.

We provide cleaning kits designed specifically for the printers we sell, ensuring compatibility and effectiveness. Our team is also happy to walk you through best practices over the phone to help you extend the life of your equipment and keep your access card program running smoothly for years to come.

Custom Printed Access Cards That Represent Your Brand

Access control cards do not have to be boring. In fact, the most effective cards are the ones that carry your brand proudly - your logo, your colors, and your professional image. We custom print every card to your exact specifications, turning a functional security tool into a powerful brand statement.

A well-designed access card tells employees, visitors, and guests that your organization takes its image seriously. It reinforces brand identity every single time the card is used, which can be dozens of times a day. That kind of consistent, repeated exposure is something no digital message can replicate.

Full-Color Custom Printing on Every Card

We print access control cards in full, vivid color using dye-sublimation technology that produces sharp images, smooth gradients, and bold text on every card. Whether your design is simple and professional or detailed and vibrant, our printing process delivers results that look premium and feel durable.

Our design team works with you to create a card that matches your branding guidelines and meets your functional requirements. We handle the artwork, the encoding, and the quality check - so you receive a finished product that is ready to issue the moment it arrives at your door.

Special Features for High-Security Cards

For organizations that need more than just a great-looking card, we offer a range of security features that make unauthorized copying or tampering extremely difficult. These features protect your organization and give your cardholders confidence that their credentials are safe.

• Holographic overlaminates that reveal tampering
• UV fluorescent ink visible only under ultraviolet light
• Microtext printing that is nearly impossible to duplicate
• Sequential numbering for easy audit trails
• Custom watermarks embedded in the card design

Combining beautiful custom printing with these advanced security features creates an access card that is both impressive and highly protected. We make it easy to add these enhancements to any order, and our team can recommend the right combination of features for your specific security requirements.

Card Carriers, Sleeves, and Accessories

We go beyond just the card itself. We also supply custom card carriers, protective sleeves, lanyards, badge reels, and other accessories that complete your access card program. These finishing touches make a big difference in how your cards are perceived and how long they last in everyday use.

Custom printed card carriers are especially useful for distributing new cards to employees or guests. They create a professional presentation that reinforces your brand and provides important usage instructions right at the point of issuance. We can match your carrier design to your card design for a seamless, polished look.

Industries We Serve with Access Control Card Solutions

Access control needs vary widely from one industry to the next. A hospital has very different security requirements than a university, and a corporate headquarters faces different challenges than a hotel. We have deep experience serving all of these environments, and we bring that expertise to every order we process.

Our nationwide reach means we serve clients from every industry in every state. We understand the specific demands of your field, and we use that knowledge to recommend the right products and configurations for your unique situation. No industry is too specialized for us to serve well.

Healthcare and Hospital Security

Hospitals and healthcare facilities need access control solutions that protect patients, staff, and sensitive medications or data. Smart cards with strong encryption are commonly used to control access to pharmacies, operating rooms, and records departments. We supply cards that meet healthcare security standards and are compatible with leading hospital access systems.

Our cards can also serve dual purposes in healthcare settings - functioning as both a photo ID badge and an access credential on the same card. This reduces the number of cards employees need to carry and simplifies your credentialing program significantly. We handle the full production process so your HR or security team can focus on other priorities.

Education and Campus Security

Schools, colleges, and universities across the country rely on access control cards to protect students, faculty, and facilities. A single smart card can give a student access to their dormitory, the campus library, athletic facilities, and computer labs - all while tracking attendance and managing meal plan balances.

We have worked with educational institutions of every size, from small private schools to large state universities. Our cards are durable enough to survive four years of student use and smart enough to support complex, multi-application campus card programs. We make the entire ordering process easy so your administration team can focus on education, not logistics.

Corporate and Government Environments

Corporate campuses and government facilities demand the highest levels of access control sophistication. Dual interface cards that work both as contactless proximity cards and as contact smart cards are popular in these environments because they offer maximum flexibility across different readers and systems throughout large, complex facilities.

We understand the procurement processes and compliance requirements that come with serving corporate and government clients. Our documentation, quality standards, and fulfillment capabilities are built to meet those demands. Call us at 800-835-7919 to discuss your organization's specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Access Control Cards

We hear a lot of great questions from our customers, and we love answering them. Understanding your options helps you make better decisions, and better decisions lead to access control programs that work beautifully for years. Here are some of the most common questions we receive.

If your question is not answered here, do not hesitate to reach out directly. Our team of knowledgeable specialists is always happy to talk through your specific needs and help you find the perfect solution. We are just a phone call away.

How Many Cards Should I Order?

The right quantity depends on your current number of users plus a buffer for new hires, replacements, and visitors. We generally recommend ordering 10-15% more than your current active user count to account for growth and replacements over the next 6-12 months. Ordering in larger quantities also typically reduces your per-card cost significantly.

Our team can help you calculate the right order quantity based on your organization's size, growth rate, and how often cards are typically lost or need replacement. We want you to have exactly the right number of cards - not too many sitting unused and not too few when you need them most.

Are Your Access Control Cards Compatible with My System?

In most cases, yes. We offer cards in all the major formats and frequencies used by leading access control system manufacturers. Before you order, we recommend confirming the technology type your system uses, such as 125 kHz HID, MIFARE 13.56 MHz, or DESFire EV2, and sharing that information with our team.

Our specialists are experienced in matching cards to systems, and we are happy to help you verify compatibility before you place your order. We stock cards that are compatible with HID, Honeywell, Lenel, Software House, Genetec, and many other popular platforms. Getting the right card the first time saves time and money for everyone.

How Fast Can You Ship My Order?

We know that access control needs can be urgent. We work hard to process and ship orders as quickly as possible, with many standard orders shipping within a few business days. Rush options are available for situations where time is truly critical, so please let us know your deadline when you call or place your order.

We ship to all 50 states, and we use trusted carriers to ensure your cards arrive safely and on schedule. Every shipment is carefully packaged to protect your cards during transit. If you ever have a question about your order status, our team is easy to reach and happy to provide an update.

The Benefits of Working with Plastic Card ID for Access Control

Choosing the right card supplier matters more than most people realize. A poorly printed card, a wrong encoding format, or a late shipment can disrupt your entire security operation. We have built our business around making sure none of those things ever happen to our customers. Our track record speaks for itself - over 50 million cards sold and counting.

When you work with us, you get more than just cards. You get a knowledgeable partner who understands your industry, your challenges, and your goals. We bring that insight to every interaction, and it shows in the quality of the products and service you receive.

Consistency You Can Count On

Every card we produce goes through a rigorous quality control process before it ships. We check encoding accuracy, print quality, and card durability to make sure every single card in your order meets our high standards. Consistent quality means your access control system works reliably day after day without unexpected card failures or reader errors.

We have invested in state-of-the-art printing and encoding equipment so that our consistency never wavers, whether you are ordering 100 cards or 100,000. Our team takes pride in delivering the same exceptional quality on every order, every time, no exceptions.

Simple, Streamlined Ordering

We have made ordering as simple as possible because we know your time is valuable. Call us at 800-835-7919, tell us what you need, and we take it from there. Our team handles the details so you do not have to worry about specifications, encoding formats, or artwork files unless you want to be involved in those details.

For repeat customers, reordering is even easier. We keep records of your previous orders so you can quickly get more of exactly what you already know works. This kind of streamlined service is one of the many reasons our customers stay with us year after year.

Competitive Pricing on Every Order

Quality access control cards do not have to break the budget. We offer competitive pricing across our entire product line, with volume discounts that make larger orders even more affordable. Our transparent pricing means you always know exactly what you are paying before you commit to an order - no hidden fees, no surprises.

We believe that every organization, regardless of size, deserves access to high-quality access control cards at fair prices. Our pricing structure is designed to be accessible for small businesses and scalable for large enterprises. Contact our team today for a custom quote tailored to your specific needs and volume requirements.

Case Study: How Access Control Cards Transformed Building Security

Consider a mid-sized technology company with offices in three cities that was still using traditional metal keys for building access. Lost keys required expensive lock changes, and there was no way to track who had accessed which areas of the building. Managing security was becoming a significant burden for their small facilities team.

After switching to a proximity card-based access control system and ordering their cards through PCID, the results were dramatic. Security incidents dropped, administrative time spent on access management was cut in half, and the company gained valuable insight into building usage patterns that helped them optimize their office space.

The Challenge: Keys Were No Longer Enough

Traditional keys provide zero auditability. When an employee leaves a company or loses a key, the entire lock cylinder must be changed to maintain security. For a company with hundreds of employees across multiple buildings, this was becoming an unsustainable cost and logistical challenge that demanded a better solution immediately.

The company needed a system that could be managed centrally, updated instantly, and scaled as the organization grew. They also wanted cards that could serve double duty as employee ID badges, reducing the number of items staff needed to carry every day. A proximity card-based system paired with custom-printed ID badges was the perfect answer.

The Solution: Custom Proximity Cards from PCID

We worked with the company to select the right card format for their chosen access control platform and designed a card that featured a professional photo ID on the front with their company logo and color scheme. The back of the card carried a secondary barcode for use with their visitor management system, making each card do the work of two.

The transition was smooth, and the company's security team reported that the new cards were immediately well-received by employees. The professional appearance of the cards also made a positive impression on clients and visitors who saw them in use throughout the building. It was a small change that made a big impact on the company's professional image.

The Results: Better Security and Happier Employees

Within the first month of the new system, the company deactivated 23 lost or unreturned cards through their software, compared to changing 14 locks the year before at significant cost. The ability to instantly disable a credential without any physical lock change was a game-changer for their security management process and their bottom line.

Employee satisfaction with the new cards was overwhelmingly positive. Staff appreciated having a single professional card that handled building access, identified them to visitors, and represented the company brand with pride. The facilities team now spends a fraction of the time they used to on access management, freeing them to focus on other important responsibilities.

Specialty and Advanced Access Control Card Options

Beyond the standard lineup, we offer specialty access control cards for organizations with unique or demanding requirements. These products are designed for environments where standard cards simply do not offer enough - whether that means enhanced durability, advanced encryption, or a distinctive appearance that sets your credentials apart.

Our specialty options are produced with the same commitment to quality that defines everything we make. We never cut corners, even on the most complex or unusual orders. If you can imagine it, there is a very good chance we can produce it.

RFID Smart Cards for High-Security Access

RFID smart cards using MIFARE DESFire technology represent the highest level of security available in a standard card form factor. These cards use advanced encryption algorithms that make cloning virtually impossible, protecting your facilities even against sophisticated attack attempts. They are widely used in government buildings, data centers, and financial institutions where security cannot be compromised.

We supply DESFire cards in multiple memory configurations to support different application requirements. Whether you need a card for simple door access or a multi-application card that handles access control, computer login, and cashless payments simultaneously, we have the right product and the technical expertise to help you implement it successfully.

Hotel Key Cards and Hospitality Access

Hotels rely on access control cards to manage guest room access, control elevator usage, provide access to amenity areas, and ensure guest safety throughout their stay. We supply magnetic stripe and RFID key cards that are compatible with the leading hotel door lock systems, printed with your property's branding for a premium guest experience.

Our hotel key cards are engineered for durability and reliable performance across thousands of swipes. We understand that a card that fails to work at 2 AM is a serious problem for your guests and your front desk staff. That is why we never compromise on the encoding quality or card materials we use for our hospitality clients.

Casino Player Cards and Gaming Credentials

Casino player cards are among the most specialized access and loyalty cards in the world. They track player activity, manage rewards programs, provide access to exclusive areas, and serve as a key touchpoint in the casino's relationship with its guests. We produce casino player cards that meet the rigorous standards of the gaming industry.

Our casino cards can incorporate RFID technology for seamless integration with player tracking systems, combined with stunning full-color printing that reflects the excitement and luxury of your gaming environment. We work with casinos of all sizes, from regional establishments to major destination resorts, delivering cards that impress from the moment they are handed to a guest.

How to Order Access Control Cards from Plastic Card ID

Ordering from us is straightforward and stress-free. We have designed our ordering process to be as easy as possible while ensuring we gather all the information we need to produce exactly the right cards for your application. You can get started today with just a quick phone call.

Our team walks you through a simple consultation to understand your access control system, your design preferences, your quantity needs, and your timeline. From there, we handle everything - from proofing your artwork to encoding your cards and shipping your finished order directly to your door, anywhere in the country.

Step One: Tell Us What You Need

Every great order starts with a conversation. Call us at 800-835-7919 and tell us about your access control system, your security requirements, and what you are hoping to achieve. Our specialists ask the right questions to make sure we fully understand your needs before recommending any products or configurations.

You do not need to be a technical expert to order from us. That is what we are here for. Whether you know exactly what technology you need or you are just starting to explore your options, our team meets you where you are and guides you to the best solution for your situation and budget.

Step Two: Approve Your Card Design

Once we understand your requirements, we move into the design phase. If you have existing artwork, we work with what you have. If you need help creating a design from scratch, our team brings creative expertise to the table. We produce a proof for your review and do not proceed to production until you are completely satisfied with the look of your card.

This approval step is important because it ensures you get exactly what you envisioned. We take the time to get the design right because a card that looks great and functions perfectly is the only kind of card worth producing. Your complete satisfaction with both form and function is always our goal.

Step Three: Fast Production and Nationwide Shipping

After design approval, we move your order into production with efficiency and precision. Our production team encodes, prints, and quality-checks every card with care. When your order is complete, we package it securely and ship it to your location anywhere in the United States with speed and reliability you can count on.

We provide shipping updates so you always know where your order is and when to expect it. For orders with urgent timelines, rush production and expedited shipping options are available. Just let us know your deadline when you call, and we will do everything we can to meet it.

Ready to Secure Your Business? Contact Plastic Card ID Today

Your organization deserves access control solutions that work flawlessly, look professional, and represent your brand with pride. We have the expertise, the products, and the nationwide reach to deliver exactly that, and we do it every single day for clients across the country. There is no better time to upgrade your access control card program than right now.

We have helped over 100,000 businesses solve their access control, identity, and security card needs, and we are ready to do the same for you. Whether you need 50 cards or 50,000, a simple proximity card or an advanced smart card solution, we have the answer. Do not settle for anything less than the best when it comes to protecting your people and your property.

Call Plastic Card ID now at 800-835-7919 and speak with one of our friendly card specialists today. We are ready to help you design, produce, and deliver the perfect access control cards for your organization - quickly, affordably, and professionally. Your security matters to us just as much as it matters to you, and we will not rest until you are completely satisfied with every card in your order.

Our Commitment to You

We stand behind every product we produce and every promise we make. Our long history of serving businesses across every industry is built on a foundation of integrity, craftsmanship, and genuine care for the people and organizations we serve. When you choose us as your access control card supplier, you are choosing a partner who is invested in your success for the long term.

Our team members are not just order takers - they are knowledgeable specialists who understand access control technology, card printing, and security best practices at a deep level. That expertise is available to you on every call, at no extra charge. We believe that an informed customer is our best customer, and we love sharing what we know to help you succeed.

Let Us Earn Your Business

We do not take your business for granted. Every order we receive is an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to quality and service, and we approach each one with the same enthusiasm and attention to detail as the first order we ever took. That attitude is why our customers come back to us again and again, year after year, for all of their access control card needs.

Whether this is your first order or your fiftieth, we promise to bring our best to every interaction. From the first phone call to the moment your cards arrive at your door, your experience with Plastic Card ID will be smooth, professional, and genuinely satisfying. We look forward to earning your trust and your business today.

Start Your Order Right Now

The smartest move you can make for your organization's security today is to pick up the phone and call Plastic Card ID at 800-835-7919. Our team is standing by to help you get the access control cards, card printers, and supplies you need - shipped fast to wherever you are in the country. Do not wait another day to upgrade your security program.

Every great security program starts with a single great decision. Make that decision today by calling PCID and discovering just how easy and affordable it is to get premium access control cards that protect your people, secure your property, and represent your brand with the professionalism it deserves. We are ready when you are.