---
title: How to Create a New Card Template in the ID123 ID Management System
description: "Creating a customized digital ID card template is easy using [the ID123 ID Management System (IDMS)](https://www.id123.io/id-management-system/). Follow the step-by-step instructions below to build a new card template that fits your institution’s branding and issuance needs. ## Step 1: Start a…"
url: "https://www.id123.io/knowledgebase/how-to-design-your-card-template/"
updated: "2025-07-15"
category: ID Management System
---

# How to Create a New Card Template in the ID123 ID Management System

Creating a customized digital ID card template is easy using [the ID123 ID Management System (IDMS)](https://www.id123.io/id-management-system/). Follow the step-by-step instructions below to build a new card template that fits your institution’s branding and issuance needs.

## Step 1: Start a New Card Template

- Log in to your IDMS account.
- Navigate to the Card Templates section in the left-hand menu.
- Click the Create New Card Template button to begin.

 ![Create a New Card Template](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-1-7.png)

## Step 2: Configure General Card Information

In the General tab, fill in the required details for your new card template:

- Template Name (for internal reference).
- Card Type (choose the appropriate category).
- Card Name (visible to users if your institution is searchable in the ID123 app).
- Card Terms of Use (optional).
- Support Contact Info: Provide a message, email, and phone number for cardholder support. ID123 handles all technical support.
- Click Next to move to the Design section.

 ![“General” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-2-4.png)

## Step 3: Customize Card Design Settings

In the Design tab, tailor the appearance of your card:

- Background and Font Colors: Choose colors that match your institution’s branding.
- Card Animation (optional): Add a rotating hologram for extra authenticity.
- Signature Field (optional): Require users to digitally sign their card.
- Card Title: Add a visible card title.
- Card Logo: Upload a circular (top right corner) or rectangular logo (replaces card title).
- Click Next to proceed to the Fields tab.

 ![“Design” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-3-4.png)

## Step 4: Add Cardholder Fields

In the Fields tab:

- Name Field: Select a data source for the cardholder's name.
- To add more fields to the front of the card, click Add Front Field, then:
  - Enter a Label,
  - Choose the Data Type,
  - Select the Data Source.
- Use the Additional tab for extra back-end fields.
- Use the Media tab to add images.
- Click Next to continue to the Photo tab.

 ![“Fields” Section 1](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-4-4.png)![“Fields” Section 2](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-4a-1.png)

## Step 5: Configure Photo Settings

In the Photo tab, manage how ID photos are handled in the app:

- Allow app user to upload photo: Enable if users can optionally upload a photo.
- Make photo required: Enable if a photo is mandatory for card issuance.
- Allow app user to update photo: Let users replace their existing photos.
- Click Next to proceed to the Barcode tab.

 ![“Photo” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-5-2.png)

## Step 6: Add a Barcode (Optional)

In the Barcode tab:

- Click Add Barcode if you want to include one.
- Toggle Auto Generate Barcode ON/OFF.
- Choose the Barcode Value Data Type.
- Footer Image (optional): Add a logo/image at the bottom of the card. This moves the barcode to the bottom right, allowing users to tap to enlarge it.
- Click Next to open the Expiration tab.

 ![“Barcode” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-6-1.png)

## Step 7: Set Card Expiration Rules (Optional)

In the Expiration tab:

- Toggle Show expiration on card if you want the expiration date visible.
- Choose a Display Timezone for the expiration.
- Enable Add Expiration at Issuance to assign dates when issuing cards.
- Select the Expiration Data Source.
- Click Next to move to the Issuance tab.

 ![“Expiration” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-7-1.png)

## Step 8: Define Issuance Settings

In the Issuance tab, choose how cards are distributed:

- Card Issuance Methods:
  - Self-Issued: Cardholders search for your institution in the app and enter their data.
  - Tip: Enable Card Moderation for security.
  - Institution-Issued: Cards are issued via email invitation. Authentication is required.
- Optional Settings:
  - Card Sharing: Allow multiple users to install the same card on different devices.
  - Device Limit: Restrict the number of devices a user can access their card on.
- Authentication Options:
  - Unique Identifier & Security Question
  - Unique Identifier & Access Code
  - Single Sign-On (SSO) – Ideal for institutions using SSO systems.
- Click Next to continue to the Moderation tab.

 ![“Issuance” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-8-1.png)

## Step 9: Enable Moderation Options (Optional)

In the Moderation tab:

- Toggle Card Moderation ON if you want to manually review data or photos before cards are issued.
- Enable Moderate Card Photos and/or Moderate Card Data as needed.
- Card Banners (optional): Add custom messages to appear on the card banner.
- If you plan to send card invitations via email, proceed to the Email Invitation tab to customize your message.

 ![“Moderation” Section](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-9-1.png)

## Step 10: Save and Finalize Your Card Template

Once all settings are configured:

- Click Save as Draft to save your progress.
- Note: All new card templates are saved as drafts by default.
- To approve and publish your template:
  - Go to the Card Templates page.
  - Click Status Settings on the desired template.
  - Note that approval permissions may be restricted by the account owner.

 ![Save the Template](https://www.id123.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Step-10.png)

## Need Help?

If you have questions or need assistance designing your digital ID card template in the [ID Management System](https://www.id123.io/id-management-system/), don’t hesitate to [contact our support team](https://www.id123.io/contact/support/?form=selection).