Become the Journalist You've Always Wanted to Be with our International Presss Card

The International Press Card for Aspiring Journalists (Just for Fun!)

Have you ever fancied stepping into the shoes of a reporter, asking questions at events or just carrying a card that gives you a bit of that journalist vibe? Our International Press Card lets you do just that. It's a personalised, double-sided ID card designed for fun and creative uses, like role-playing or adding a touch of realism to your projects. Printed on eco-friendly biodegradable plastic, it's a simple way to explore your interest in journalism without any formal commitments.

What Exactly is the International Press Card?

This card is a novelty item that looks alot like a proper press pass, complete with your photo, name, and other details. It's not an official credential from any journalism body—think of it more as a prop that you can customise to suit your needs. We make it here in the UK, and it's available for anyone to order online. The front side shows your full name, nationality, date of birth, and a unique ID number, along with a "PRESS" label and a barcode for that authentic feel. The back includes authorisation text stating you're allowed to investigate and report on newsworthy events, plus a signature line and a magnetic strip.

A Bit of Background: The Story Behind Press Cards

Press cards have a fascinating history that stretches back over a century, adding a layer of intrigue to why people still love the idea of carrying one today. They first became common in the early 1900s, when newspapers and early radio stations started issuing them to their reporters. This allowed journalists to get past police lines at crime scenes or into exclusive events without too much hassle. Before that, in the late 1800s, reporters sometimes tucked a simple "PRESS" slip into their hat bands—picture those classic black-and-white photos of fedora-wearing journalists scribbling notes at a bustling press conference.

In 1927 the International Federation of Journalists created a formal international version to help reporters working abroad. Modern official press cards in the UK, such as the one issued by the UK Press Card Authority, are reserved for working professional journalists who have been vetted by recognised gatekeeping bodies.

Novelty cards like ours sit in a different space entirely. They've long been popular as film and TV props, fancy-dress accessories, or just something fun for enthusiasts. Our version is part of that playful tradition—nothing official, but made with care to capture the look and feel.

Key Features That Make It Stand Out

Personalised Details for a Real Look

You upload your photo, name, nationality, and birth date, and we print them directly onto the card. This makes it feel unique to you, much like an actual ID. It's great for adding a personal touch if you're using it for creative writing, blogging, or even giving as a gift for your journalism mad friend or relative. The card is the same size as a standard credit card size, so it fits easily in your wallet.

Double-Sided Design with Practical Elements

The front has a professional layout with wavy security patterns and a red stamp saying "Official Association Journalist Press Card". On the back, there's text explaining the holder's role in reporting, along with a note that it's not official. This setup includes a magnetic strip, which doesn't actually work but adds to the realism for prop purposes. We use high-quality printing to ensure it doesn't fade quickly.

Eco-Friendly Material

Made from biodegradable plastic, the card breaks down naturally over time if discarded, unlike traditional plastic cards. This choice reflects our commitment at The Card Project UK to reduce environmental impact. If you're someone who cares about sustainability, this feature means you can enjoy the card without worrying about adding to plastic waste. It's durable enough for everyday carry but kind to the planet.

How You Might Use the Card in Everyday Life

People get our International Press Card for all sorts of reasons, and it's surprising how versatile it can be. For instance, if you're a budding blogger or podcaster, flashing it at local events might spark interesting chats—though remember, it's not meant to grant real access. Some use it for fancy dress parties, where pretending to be a journalist adds a layer of fun to the outfit. Others keep it as a motivational item on their desk, reminding them to pursue their writing goals. Others give it as a gift or keepsake.

We've heard from customers who take it travelling, using it as an icebreaker when meeting new people. It's also popular among students practicing interviews or role-playing scenarios in media classes. Just keep in mind the disclaimer on the back: it's clearly marked as not official, so it's all about the enjoyment rather than any formal privileges.

Why Choose This Card Over Others?

At £10.99, it's an affordable way to dip your toe into the world of journalism-themed items. Unlike generic props, ours is fully customisable, so it feels more like your own. We ship across the UK and internationally, with quick turnaround times—usually within a day of ordering.

A Quick Word on Using Your Card Responsibly

We want everyone to have fun with our International Press Card, but it's important to use it in the right way. This is strictly a novelty item meant for personal enjoyment, cosplay, props, or creative motivation—it's not designed to impersonate a real journalist or gain unauthorised access anywhere. The card itself includes a clear note on the back stating it's not an official document, which helps avoid any misunderstandings.

Please don't use it to misrepresent yourself, such as trying to enter restricted areas, claim press privileges, or get discounts reserved for professionals. By keeping things light-hearted and legal, you can enjoy the card safely without any worries.

Explore Our Other Fun Novelty ID Cards

If the International Press Card has caught your eye, you might fancy checking out our other novelty IDs—they're all customisable and made with the same care. Many customers grab a couple at once to build a collection or complete a themed set. Here's a quick look at what else we offer, grouped by category so you can spot quickly if we have what you're looking for. The whole range, including our Press Card, can be found in our Cosplay/Film/TV/Theatre Props category.

Emergency Services and Medical Roles

Options like the Police Warrant Card, Paramedic or Ambulance Service Card, Firefighter ID Card, Prison Officer ID Card, Doctor ID Card, or Nurse ID Card. These are popular for fancy dress events, role-playing games, or adding authenticity to short films and photoshoots where you need that emergency responder or healthcare professional vibe.

Secret Services, Military, and Aviation

Think FBI Agent Personalised Photo Identification Card, CIA Agent Personalised Photo Identification Card, MI6 Secret Service Identification Card, British Army ID Card, Royal Navy UK ID Card, or Pilot Identification Card. They're great for spy-themed parties, military history enthusiasts, or as props in adventure stories and cosplay conventions.

Education and Media

Alongside the International Press Card, we have the UK University Student ID Card and International Student ID Card. These work well for student cosplay, nostalgic mementos, or even as fun additions to media-related projects like mock campus reporting.

Driving and Personal ID

Personalised UK Drivers Licence (full or provisional) or National Insurance Number Card. Often used for theatrical props, completing a character outfit, or just as quirky wallet fillers for those who enjoy everyday ID replicas.

Cosplay Credit Cards

Fake Seraphina Bank Cosplay Credit Card or Horizon Bank Cosplay Credit Card. Ideal for rounding out costumes in films, photoshoots, or role-play scenarios where a fictional bank card adds that extra detail to your character's backstory.

Ready to Start Your Adventure?

If you have questions about the International Press Card—or any of our other novelty IDs—feel free to get in touch. Whether you're dreaming up your next big story or just curious about the world of press passes, we hope this has sparked some ideas. Keep exploring—real journalism starts with a question.

Updated January 2026