Enclosed ID badge holders are rigid plastic card holders that fully encase an ID card. They are designed to protect ID cards, access passes and badges from bending, dirt and everyday wear while keeping the card clearly visible.

You can browse the full range of enclosed ID badge holders available from Red Strawberry.

Most enclosed ID badge holders on our site are designed to fit standard credit-card size ID cards (CR80 – approximately 86 × 54 mm). This is the most common size for staff ID cards, access control cards and visitor passes.

Exact sizing information is shown on each individual product page.

Enclosed ID badge holders fully surround the card, offering greater protection from dust, moisture, and edge wear. They are a good choice for harsher environments or where badges need extra protection.

Open ID badge holders use a rigid frame that holds the card securely while leaving part of the card face exposed for visibility. Cards are typically inserted and removed from the front, making open holders quicker to change while still helping keep the card flat.

Enclosed ID badge holders are suitable for proximity and contactless access cards in many cases. These cards can often be scanned while still inside the holder, depending on the card type, holder material and reader sensitivity. If your system is sensitive to distance or orientation, you may need to present the card closer to the reader or adjust its position.

Swipe cards are different. If the card needs to be physically swiped through a slot reader, it will usually need to be removed from an enclosed holder first. For swipe systems, a gripper-style holder can be more practical because it holds the card securely while keeping it quick to remove and reinsert, such as the Black Gripper Clip ID Card Holder for 30mil (760 micron) cards (pack of 100).

Yes. Enclosed ID badge holders typically include slots or punched holes so they can be used with:

• Lanyards

• Retractable badge reels

• Clips and fasteners

They pair well with products from our lanyards and lanyard accessories & clips ranges.

Enclosed holders provide added protection against dust, splashes and everyday moisture, helping keep ID cards clean and readable.

They are ideal for environments where cards are worn all day or used frequently.

Enclosed ID badge holders are widely used in:

• Offices and corporate workplaces

• Schools, colleges and universities

• Healthcare and NHS environments

• Events, exhibitions and conferences

• Facilities with strict ID or access control policies

They are particularly useful where card durability and protection are important.

Enclosed badge holders are usually available in clear or frosted finishes. Some models are also available in different colours, and in both portrait and landscape orientations, depending on the product.

We can often supply enclosed badge holders in additional colours on request, subject to a minimum order quantity and an additional charge.

Available options are shown on each product listing, so you can select the finish and orientation that best matches your card layout and how the badge will be worn.

The best option depends on:

• How much protection your card needs.

• Whether you prefer portrait or landscape orientation.

• How the badge will be worn (lanyard, reel or clip).

Comparing products within the enclosed ID badge holders category can help you find the most suitable option.

If you’re unsure whether you need an enclosed holder or a more open design, it may help to compare both options before ordering.

You can explore:

• Enclosed ID badge holders for maximum protection.

• Open plastic card holders for quicker card access.