Data carrier and process for its preparation

The invention provides a data carrier (1) for visually readable data with a card-like support element (2) having at least a data area (12), on which visually readable data (15) are applied, and on the or each data area (12) arranged cover (13), z. B. in the form of a pressure-sensitive adhesive label having a color cover - is removable - under damage or destruction of the cover. In the production of a protective surface (3) and / or the carrier element (2) is pivoted such that the guard surface (3) has a side surface of the carrier element (2) at least partially.