Can social security card replace ID card?

Legal analysis: social security card can't be used as ID card. Although the social security card is printed with the citizen ID number, it can't be used as an ID card, because the valid certificate to prove citizenship is an ID card rather than a social security card. The social security card is the electronic certificate for cardholders to enjoy social security and public employment services. It has the basic functions of information recording, information inquiry and business handling, and has no legal effect. The law endows the social security card with the function of proving identity, but in practice, not every department recognizes the social security card as identity proof.

Legal basis: People's Republic of China (PRC) Social Insurance Law.

Article 4 Employers and individuals who pay social insurance premiums according to law in People's Republic of China (PRC) have the right to inquire about payment records and personal rights and interests records, and ask social insurance agencies to provide social insurance consultation and other related services. Individuals enjoy social insurance benefits according to law and have the right to supervise the payment of their own units.

Fifth people's governments at or above the county level shall incorporate social insurance into the national economic and social development plan. The state raises social insurance funds through multiple channels. People's governments at or above the county level shall give necessary financial support to social insurance. The state supports social insurance through preferential tax policies.