--- title: How to Save Money and Print Your Own ID Cards description: Here's everything you need to get started printing your own IDs. Whether you need something basic or advanced, the main components are all the same. image: https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/DTC1250e%20Preconfig%20System.jpg --- 🚚 Free Standard Shipping on All Orders [![JOB Logo and Tag JPG HIGH RES](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/JOB%20Logo%20and%20Tag%20JPG%20HIGH%20RES.jpg?width=267&height=57&name=JOB%20Logo%20and%20Tag%20JPG%20HIGH%20RES.jpg "JOB Logo and Tag JPG HIGH RES")](https://www.jobrien.com/) - [ID Card Printers](https://www.jobrien.com/id-card-printers) - [ID Card Printer Supplies](https://www.jobrien.com/id-card-printer-supplies) - [ID Badge Accessories](https://www.jobrien.com/id-badge-accessories) - [Software](https://www.jobrien.com/software) - [Access Control](https://www.jobrien.com/access-control) - [Visitor Management](https://www.jobrien.com/visitor-management) - [Capture Devices](https://www.jobrien.com/capture-devices) - [Workspace Solutions](https://www.jobrien.com/workspace-solutions) - [Learn](https://landing.jobrien.com/learning-center) Go [![jobrien-security-logo-2017](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/May%202019/jobrien-security-logo-2017.png?width=267&name=jobrien-security-logo-2017.png "jobrien-security-logo-2017")](https://prod.jobrien.com/) - [ID Card Printers](https://www.jobrien.com/id-card-printers) - [ID Card Printer Supplies](https://www.jobrien.com/id-card-printer-supplies) - [ID Badge Accessories](https://www.jobrien.com/id-badge-accessories) - [Software](https://www.jobrien.com/software) - [Access Control](https://www.jobrien.com/access-control) - [Visitor Management](https://www.jobrien.com/visitor-management) - [Capture Devices](https://www.jobrien.com/capture-devices) - [Workspace Solutions](https://www.jobrien.com/workspace-solutions) - [Learn](https://landing.jobrien.com/learning-center) - [Blog](https://info.jobrien.com/) - [Solutions](https://landing.jobrien.com/services) - [Videos](https://landing.jobrien.com/videos) - [Guides](https://landing.jobrien.com/buying-guides) ### Top Categories - [Case Study (2)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/case-study) - [Document Scanners (3)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/document-scanners) - [ID Badge Accessories (12)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) - [ID Card Printer (29)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) - [Label Printers (1)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/label-printers) - [Mobile Access (12)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/mobile-access) - [News (8)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/news) - [Physical Access Control (27)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/physical-access-control) - [Technical Support (4)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) - [Visitor Management (15)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/visitor-management) See all ### Top Categories - [Case Study (2)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/case-study) - [Document Scanners (3)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/document-scanners) - [ID Badge Accessories (12)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) - [ID Card Printer (29)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) - [Label Printers (1)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/label-printers) - [Mobile Access (12)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/mobile-access) - [News (8)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/news) - [Physical Access Control (27)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/physical-access-control) - [Technical Support (4)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) - [Visitor Management (15)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/visitor-management) See all ## Popular Posts ### [Beginners Guide to Access Card Formatting](https://info.jobrien.com/beginners-guide-to-access-card-formatting) [Physical Access Control](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/physical-access-control) 3 MIN READ ### [4 Ways to Display Your ID Card in Your Facility](https://info.jobrien.com/4-ways-to-attach-an-id-card-to-yourself) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) 4 MIN READ ### [How Fake ID Scanners Work: Thales Scanners Explained](https://info.jobrien.com/how-fake-id-scanners-work-thales-scanners-explained) [Document Scanners](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/document-scanners) 3 MIN READ ## SECURITY TIPS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX ### We’ll never share your info, EVER. ### Subscribe Here! ### Top Categories - [Case Study (2)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/case-study) - [Document Scanners (3)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/document-scanners) - [ID Badge Accessories (12)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) - [ID Card Printer (29)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) - [Label Printers (1)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/label-printers) - [Mobile Access (12)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/mobile-access) - [News (8)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/news) - [Physical Access Control (27)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/physical-access-control) - [Technical Support (4)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) - [Visitor Management (15)](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/visitor-management) See all # How to Save Money and Print Your Own ID Cards [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) By [Mike Piana](https://info.jobrien.com/author/mike-piana) June 26, 2023 ![DTC1250e Preconfig System](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/DTC1250e%20Preconfig%20System.jpg) So, you want to save money and print your own ID cards? The following article will arm you with the basic knowledge to determine your needs for ID Card Printing. We understand that not everyone is an expert when it comes to ID Card Production, if you need help please feel free to contact us and our trained staff will help you through every detail.  [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2317303/ddddea04-e195-4525-b73a-c0bbe092b467.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2317303/ddddea04-e195-4525-b73a-c0bbe092b467) # Basic Considerations for Purchasing an ID Card Printing System The major component of any ID card printing program is you guessed it, an ID card Printer. There are many different brands and subsequent models available, all with different features and functionality. Factors to consider when deciding which printer to choose include: **Budget:** If you’re looking to save money, you need to determine the break-even point, or ROI for producing ID cards in-house vs. buying them from a supplier. Your budget should also take into consideration the cost associated with shipping and the time you must wait before receiving your badges. **Design:** Detailed card designs may require a high-definition printer. A double-sided ID card printer design would require a card printer that can flip and print on both sides of a card **Quantity:** The volume of cards you’ll need will determine durability, speed, and price **Quality:** Print resolution affects variables like picture and design detail **Durability:** There are different ways to ensure longer life, for instance, you may want to laminate a card to last longer                                                                  ## ID Card Printer Supplies **Ribbon:** Performs like ink in a traditional office printer.![fargo-color-ribbon-84050_01-209385-edited](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog/Blog%20Images/ID%20Accessories%20(Support%20Graphics)%20/Ribbons/fargo-color-ribbon-84050_01-209385-edited.jpg?width=330&name=fargo-color-ribbon-84050_01-209385-edited.jpg) **Cards:** ID card stock has its own set of features such as material, embedded technologies, and added security features. ![Card stock](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Card%20stock.jpg?width=344&name=Card%20stock.jpg) **Cleaning Kits:** Keeps your printer working properly by removing debris and dust. ![fargo-printer-cleaning-kit-88933_01](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/fargo-printer-cleaning-kit-88933_01.jpg?width=284&name=fargo-printer-cleaning-kit-88933_01.jpg) **Overlaminate** (if applicable), is only necessary for ID card printers that apply a laminate after printing. Adding a laminate increases the durability of your badges. ![Overlaminate](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Overlaminate.jpg?width=343&name=Overlaminate.jpg) **Transfer Film** (if applicable), is only necessary when using a printer that produces cards using a Re-Transfer print process. Find out more about the difference in print technologies here: [Direct-to-card vs. Re-transfer printing](https://info.jobrien.com/direct-to-card-vs.-re-transfer-printing-which-id-card-printer-technology-is-right-for-you) ![Transfer Film](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Transfer%20Film.jpg?width=317&name=Transfer%20Film.jpg) **ID Card Software** Although you can use most common applications to print ID cards such as MSWord and Photoshop,  using software specifically made to print ID cards gives you additional design features, as well as the ability to print and store your employee information to produce ID cards. There is a range of software available, from very simple to very advanced. ![asureid7.5-screenshotdata-field_073014_1](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/asureid7.5-screenshotdata-field_073014_1.jpg?width=1306&name=asureid7.5-screenshotdata-field_073014_1.jpg)**Capture Devices** Many employers like to add a photo, or signature to a card. You’ll need a way to gather that information from your employees to fill those fields. Cameras mounted on small tripods will do the trick. You’ll need to check that the background is appropriate or buy a backdrop. Then make sure the lighting is adequate. Signature pads will allow you to capture employee signatures. ![ID Camera](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ID%20Camera.jpg?width=358&name=ID%20Camera.jpg) **Ensure Success with Spot-on Training and Support** ![id-card-printer-daily-support](https://info.jobrien.com/hs-fs/hubfs/id-card-printer-daily-support.jpeg?width=490&name=id-card-printer-daily-support.jpeg) Partnering with the right company is decidedly more important than getting a great price. Choosing a reputable ID card vendor can make your deployment much easier. Having a company with a track record for superior customer service will make maintaining your ID program a breeze. [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2317303/ddddea04-e195-4525-b73a-c0bbe092b467.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2317303/ddddea04-e195-4525-b73a-c0bbe092b467) ### About Author ![Mike Piana](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/Jobrien%20Team/michael-piana-jobrien-2015.jpg) Mike Piana - - - - [Previous Post](https://info.jobrien.com/clip-type-for-our-badge-reel-re-tractors-j.obrien-vlog) [Next Post](https://info.jobrien.com/what-is-hid-mobile-access) ### Related Posts [![DTC1250e Preconfig System](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/DTC1250e%20Preconfig%20System.jpg)](https://info.jobrien.com/what-do-you-need-to-make-your-own-id-cards) ## [IDP and J. O'Brien Join Forces: Introducing the SOLID-UX Line](https://info.jobrien.com/idp-and-j.-obrien-join-forces-introducing-the-solid-ux-line) [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) 3 MIN READ ## IDP and J. O'Brien Join Forces: Introducing the SOLID-UX Line So, you want to save money and print your own ID cards? [Read Article](https://info.jobrien.com/what-do-you-need-to-make-your-own-id-cards) [![DTC1250e Preconfig System](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/DTC1250e%20Preconfig%20System.jpg)](https://info.jobrien.com/what-do-you-need-to-make-your-own-id-cards) ## [Comparing the SOLID-UX Printer Line](https://info.jobrien.com/comparing-the-solid-ux-printer-line) [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) 3 MIN READ ## Comparing the SOLID-UX Printer Line So, you want to save money and print your own ID cards? [Read Article](https://info.jobrien.com/what-do-you-need-to-make-your-own-id-cards) [![DTC1250e Preconfig System](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/DTC1250e%20Preconfig%20System.jpg)](https://info.jobrien.com/what-do-you-need-to-make-your-own-id-cards) ## [Why Badge Buddies Matter in Healthcare](https://info.jobrien.com/why-badge-buddies-matter-in-healthcare) [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) 3 MIN READ ## Why Badge Buddies Matter in Healthcare So, you want to save money and print your own ID cards? [Read Article](https://info.jobrien.com/what-do-you-need-to-make-your-own-id-cards) ### Related posts [![idp solid-810ux printer](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/solid810ux%20blog%20post.jpg)](https://info.jobrien.com/idp-and-j.-obrien-join-forces-introducing-the-solid-ux-line) ## IDP and J. O'Brien Join Forces: Introducing the SOLID-UX Line [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) 2 MIN READ ## [IDP and J. O'Brien Join Forces: Introducing the SOLID-UX Line](https://info.jobrien.com/idp-and-j.-obrien-join-forces-introducing-the-solid-ux-line) It’s official. After months of planning, testing, editing, and more testing (because that’s how we do things around here),... [Read Article](https://info.jobrien.com/idp-and-j.-obrien-join-forces-introducing-the-solid-ux-line) [![each solidux id printer from good to perfect](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/solidux%20blog%20comparison.jpg)](https://info.jobrien.com/comparing-the-solid-ux-printer-line) ## Comparing the SOLID-UX Printer Line [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) 5 MIN READ ## [Comparing the SOLID-UX Printer Line](https://info.jobrien.com/comparing-the-solid-ux-printer-line) Below you will find a comparison chart for J. O'Brien's line of IDP SOLID-UX printers. Use this chart to make an informed... [Read Article](https://info.jobrien.com/comparing-the-solid-ux-printer-line) [![Different badge buddies laid out and one badge buddy showing an ID on top as well as a lanyard attached.](https://info.jobrien.com/hubfs/badge%20buddy%20blog%20post.jpg)](https://info.jobrien.com/why-badge-buddies-matter-in-healthcare) ## Why Badge Buddies Matter in Healthcare [ID Card Printer](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-card-printer) [ID Badge Accessories](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/id-badge-accessories) [Technical Support](https://info.jobrien.com/topic/technical-support) 2 MIN READ ## [Why Badge Buddies Matter in Healthcare](https://info.jobrien.com/why-badge-buddies-matter-in-healthcare) ## Why Badge Buddies Matter in Healthcare: Visibility, Safety, and Trust In a fast-moving healthcare environment, there’s not always... 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