Sample Data Shows What a Complete Press ID Looks Like
This template comes filled with a worked example: a senior journalist at a news network called Global News Network, with a department, a press ID number, an expiry date, a blood group, an emergency contact and a disclaimer. Looking at the sample is a quick way to understand which details a press card should hold, and to decide which of them your own newsroom needs.
The Front, Item by Item
The card is portrait, 2.125 x 3.375 inches. The background mixes dark navy and bright red angles. At the top, a red and white globe logo sits beside GLOBAL NEWS NETWORK (GNN). Down the right edge, a red strip carries P R E S S in white letters stacked vertically, readable from a distance. A white octagon shaped window holds the photo placeholder. Below it is the name MICHAEL R. ADAMS in dark capitals, with a red tag reading SENIOR JOURNALIST. A four box grid shows Department: News and Reporting, Press ID No.: GNN-PR-1024, Valid Till: 31 Dec 20XX and Blood Group: O+, separated by red dotted lines. A QR code sits at the bottom. The font is Barlow.
The Back Gives the Rules
The back is white with red and navy angles at the corners. A grid with red dotted lines shows Phone: +1 202-555-0189, Email: [email protected], Website: www.gnnmedia.com and Address: 1200 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C., USA. A Note certifies that the bearer is an authorized journalist of Global News Network and asks for the card to be returned if found. A Disclaimer states that tampering with or misusing the card is a punishable offense. A signature line and a second QR code sit at the foot of the card.
Replace the Sample Organisation Everywhere
The sample uses invented names and a real looking address. Replace every instance with your own: the network name, the logo, the email domain, the website and the street address. Check both sides. Using the name or address of a real organisation you do not belong to would be misleading, and it could cause legal trouble.
Press ID Number Systems
The sample number has a prefix for the network, one for the desk and a serial: GNN-PR-1024. Create a system that suits you, so that numbers are unique and traceable. Keep a register of issued cards with the holder’s name, the issue date, the expiry date and the number, so that you can confirm a card if a venue calls to check.
The Disclaimer and What It Does
The disclaimer warns that tampering or misuse is punishable. Whether that is enforceable depends on local law, so check with your legal adviser, and adapt the wording. A softer version might say: “This card remains the property of the issuer and must be returned on request. Misuse may lead to withdrawal.” Keep it brief.
Editing Names, Photo and Dates
Retype each field. Click the octagon window and choose Replace Image to add a portrait. Update both QR codes with real links, or delete them. Make sure the Valid Till date is a realistic one, such as twelve months from issue.
Printing Both Sides
Print the front and the back on 250 to 300 gsm card stock, or ask a print shop for PVC cards. Align the two sides carefully, and punch a slot for a lanyard clip. The red and navy use plenty of ink, so test a copy.
For a blue press card with a PRESS header, see the press reporter ID card. For a photographer, see the photographer ID card. More are in ID cards.
