Card Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Your Card

  • How do I get the best ID card photo?
    • Head Shot Example
      Expression should be natural
    • Face forward (no side angles)
    • Background should be a neutral color
    • Light source should be in front of you
    • Focus on face and shoulders
    • Photo must be in color
    • No filters

    Refusing to follow any of these guidelines could delay your photo from being approved.

  • I have an overseas address. Can my R'Card be mailed to me?

    No. You need to have a permanent U.S. address on your student file to receive an R’Card by mail. However, international students may request a digital R’Card. To do so, first log in to your R'Card Account. (Note: If you have never had an R'Card before, you can email cardingoffice@ucr.edu to request that a CloudPhoto account be set up for you.) Carefully follow the instructions on CloudPhoto to submit both an approved photo and proof of identity (a government-issued ID). Then email your request to the Carding Office. Include your name and student ID number.

  • What Government-issued documents are accepted?

    Any current government-issue photo ID (valid English-language passport, U.S. driver’s license, U.S. Military identification card, etc.). We can not accept birth certificates, Social Security cards, school ID's, or credit cards.

  • What if I have changed my Lived Name?

    Lived Name aims to have a student or employee's self-chosen name to be used in all university communications and reporting, except where legal names are required by law, industry standard, or legitimate business needs. Students and employees who have updated their Lived Name in University data resources can receive a replacement card at no charge by exchanging their existing R’Card. If the cardholder does not have their current R’Card, it is considered a Lost Card and subject to the Lost Card replacement fee.

    Note: Your legal name is still maintained and used for some university business. Please see UCPath for information on changing your legal name in University systems. 

  • When will I be billed?

    The R'Card fee will appear on your student account. Please review your account statements often to ensure this fee is paid quickly. The Main Cashiers’ Office will assess a monthly late fee of $25 for unpaid charges. 

  • When will I receive my R'Card?
    1. First-years and transfer students will receive their R’Card at their Orientation, provided photo submission deadlines are met.
    2. For all others, once your photo and proof of identity have been approved, it can be ready the same or next day.

    Request R'Card

    Attention: peak production periods like Week 0 or holiday closures may alter processing time. 

  • Where do I go to submit my photo now?

    Photos for existing R'Cards can be updated by navigating to your R'Card Account and heading to the "Profile" section. Once in the "Profile" tab, select "Click to submit a new photo" and follow the instructions given.

Other

  • Can I use my R'Card for building access?

    If you live in UCR Housing, your R'Card's proximity chip can be programmed to provide “contactless” access to buildings, doors, and gates. Access is provided by the staff at the appropriate Residential Services Office (RSO). For lab or classroom access, please consult the building administrator or Access Control.

    NOTE: You will need to repeat this step if you ever receive a replacement R'Card.

  • Can I use my R'Card to login with Kronos?

    Bring your R'Card to your supervisor. They will enter your card’s special 16-digit number into Kronos so you can swipe and clock-in.

    NOTE: You will need to repeat this step if you ever receive a replacement R'Card.