Students aren't the only ones who can have BYU ID cards; spouses can get and use them as well to check out library books and use the athletic facilities.

Many students don't know that the BYU ID center can issue an identification card to any spouse of a student or employee. Also, dependents between 12 and 30 years old are eligible for an ID card, according to the ID center Web site.

An interested spouse must first set up a Net ID online and then go to 2310 WSC to receive the ID card. The spouse cards look exactly like the regular student cards, and are issued in the same way. The first card is free, with replacement cards costing $10.

However, the issuing of a card from the ID center is no more than photo identification until extra privileges are added. A spouse must separately add each privilege to the card before it can be used on campus. Those services include checking out books from the library and using the athletic facilities in the Smith Fieldhouse and the Richards Building

"A BYU ID does not [automatically] represent entitlement to use a service," said Michael Smart, media relations manager for University Communications.

Smart said library and athletic privileges can be added to a card when the BYU student or employee accompanies the spouse to 3443 HBLL and 112 RB. At each location, the card is programmed with the appropriate privileges. The non-student does not need to be accompanied by the student spouse after this first time.

Spouses must also agree to follow the BYU honor code before a card is issued to them. This includes being properly shaven and attired when they go to the ID center.

"The ID center supports BYU dress and grooming standards," Smart said.

There is no official count of how many spouse cards have been issued by BYU, and it is unclear how many students currently know of their availability.

For more information go to http://signaturecard.byu.edu/idcenter/services.html.