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IDs Needed to Request Life Event Records

When you request a vital record, you must submit a photocopy of a primary photo ID.

If you cannot present a primary photo ID, you must submit photocopies of at least two secondary IDs.

Making a photocopy of your ID

Submit a photocopy of the front and back of each ID and include it with your Form DS-5542.

  • Your photocopy must be on white, 8.5'' x 11" standard paper, in black and white, and on one side of the paper. 
  • Do not decrease the image size. You may make the image size bigger.
  • Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
  • Fully-valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
  • Certificate of Naturalization 
  • Certificate of Citizenship 
  • Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
  • U.S. military or military dependent ID
  • U.S. prison or inmate ID with photo
  • Valid foreign passport
  • Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) - used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
  • U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
  • Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
  • Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
  • We may ask you to provide a photocopy of an extra ID when presenting a photocopy of one of these documents:
    • Fully-valid learner's permit with photo, 
    • Fully-valid non-driver ID with photo, 
    • Temporary driver's license with photo, or
    • Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

If you do not have primary ID, submit photocopies of at least two secondary IDs:

  • Learner's or temporary driver's permit or license (without a photo)
  • Fully-valid, state-issued identification card (without a photo)
  • Social Security card
  • Voter registration card
  • Employee work ID
  • Student ID
  • School yearbook with identifiable photograph
  • Selective Service (draft) card
  • Medicare or other health card
  • Expired driver's license 
Last Updated: September 13, 2024