General Information
The Brown Card and How It Works
The Brown Card is the official Brown University identification card. All faculty, staff, students and visitors are required to obtain a Brown Card ID. You will need it for identification, security and access to University buildings and services. While on campus, you should carry it with you at all times. Only the person to whom it is issued may use the Brown Card.
The information on the front of the Brown Card includes name, photograph, expiration date, barcode, Brown ID number, Banner ID Number, ISO number, status, and numeric barcode number.
The barcode is used to borrow books and other materials from University libraries.
The information on the back of the Brown Card includes the signature line (sign immediately), a wide magnetic access stripe, and a thin magnetic vending stripe.
The wide access stripe allows users access to restricted buildings (e.g., residence hall, labs, parking, etc.), to Brown University Dining Services (BUDS) meal plans, Flex-Plus, and the Declining Balance Account for purchases at BUDS dining halls, Brown Bookstore, Computer Store, the Registrar's office, and the Hour Glass Cafe.
The thin vending stripe is used at campus vending, laundry machines, snack machines, beverage machines, and self-serve copier and printers at Brown's libraries and copy centers.
For your convenience, telephone numbers for Brown Public Safety, Student Transportation Services, Health Services and Psychological Services are also located on the back of the ID card.