When designing an ID card template, the best way to start is to make a list of what you plan to accomplish with the ID. Is it for access control? Payments? Just sign in? No matter the case, make a list of the items you plan to have in it. Some examples: name, address, city, state, zip code, height, eye color, hair color, restrictions, barcode, photo, logo(s), title, ID number, expiration date, etc.
Once you’ve decided on all the information you want on your ID, it’s easiest to start making a quick sketch with pencil and paper. This doesn’t have to be precise, but it’s helpful to have an idea of where the individual information will go on the ID. Don’t forget that you always have the option to put things on the back of the card. Typically, you’ll want to use the back of the ID card for a barcode, company/organization name and address, and other information that doesn’t fit well on the front of the card.
Your next step is to use software like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, or GIMP (a free Photoshop alternative) and create your document. The size of a normal credit card is 3.375″ x 2.125″, and I recommend using a resolution of at least 600 pixels/inch. You need to create two of the documents right now: one for the front of the ID and one for the back. You should try to keep each separate ID item on its own layer, and additionally keep whole sections in layer folders (e.g. you might want folders for “Header”, “Info”, “Photo”, etc.) . Keeping this organized really helps in the long run, as changes can be made quickly and efficiently (especially if you’re not the one making the changes).
I recommend leaving a little bit of white space around the edge of your ID, but if you want to have a full bleed (color to the edge of the ID), you should make the document a bit larger (about 1/8″- 1/ 4″ on all sides). This way, when you punch your cards, you’ll have color that extends all the way to the edge.