How to Get a Military ID for a Spouse?
As the spouse of a military service member, you may be eligible for a military identification (ID) card. This ID card, issued by the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC), can be used as proof of affiliation with a military family member and grants access to military bases and other facilities.
Am I Eligible for a Military ID Card as a Spouse?
Before applying for a military ID card as a spouse, you need to meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Be the spouse of a U.S. Armed Forces service member or member of the Coast Guard who is officially listed on their DD Form 214 or DD Form 256 (if member is in reserve)
- Be registered with the DoD Family Support System II (DOSII), also known as the ID Card Facility Locator
- Provide documentation as required for the dependent’s ID Card application process (see "Required Documents" below)
- Attend a mandatory oath-taking ceremony to receive your ID card (see "Oath-taking Ceremony" below)
Required Documents
To apply for a military ID card as a spouse, you will need to provide the following documentation:
• Copy of spouse’s active-duty orders
• Spouse’s original DD Form 214 or DD Form 256
• Original proof of social security number
• Official marriage certificate or divorce certificate (if previously married and now re-married)
Step-by-Step Application Process
To obtain a military ID card for your spouse, follow this step-by-step process:
- Register with the DOSII: Begin by registering with the Department of Defense (DoD) Family Support System II (DOSII). You can register online by visiting the DoD Portal or in-person at an ID Card Facility.
- Fill Out DD Form 1490: Once registered, fill out the DD Form 1490 (Request for Personnel Action), Section 80 (Eligibility for Department of Defense Uniformed Service Identification Cards) and forward it to your spouse for signature and signature authentication (if not filling out with spouse present).
- Provide Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents outlined above (including the documents listed on the DD Form 1490) for the application process.
- Appear at ID Card Facility: Take your documents to a military personnel office (Personnel/Enlisted Division) located on the installation where you reside (off-installation facilities also exist). Scheduling appointments ahead of time is highly recommended.
- Fill Out Standard Form 88: Before the oath-taking ceremony (see below), fill out the Standard Form 88 (Questionnaire for Firearms and Weapons)
- Take Oath, Receive ID Card: Have the required documents verified by the Military Identification Card Sponsor, sign and swear oaths affirming your dependence on a DoD covered individual (Spouse/Survivor/Widower/Widower), take the standard questionnaire, receive your new DoD dependent ID Card and any replacement cards required.
- Register your ID Card: Complete online registration as a military family member. This ensures easy access and management of services and discounts.
Tips and Information
- Be prepared with all required documentation and take your spouse along to ease the application process.
- Download the ID Card Facility Locator: This smartphone app and web-based interface helps find military ID facilities near your location.
- Be Aware of Additional Requirements: As a dependant ID Card holder, you might encounter additional needs for medical appointments, facility access, and other dependant-only programs.
- Stay Updated: DMDC continually modifies ID requirements and process details. Remain informed about recent changes affecting your family member’s spouse ID application through the DOD official sources.
Conclusion
To obtain a military ID card as a spouse, gather the required documents and follow the straightforward application process. Ensure successful completion of your application to enjoy access to military bases and facilities while fostering a better understanding of military life, benefits, and resources with your loved ones.
Timeline Overview:
- [Weeks 1-2] Register with DoD FSS and submit application documentation
- [Week 3-4] Military personnel review your application for completeness
- [Week 5] Attend a mandatory oath-taking ceremony with your spouse
Total Time: Estimated 30-40 working days
Key takeaways**
- Provide essential documentation ahead of your scheduled appointment for a seamless ID card issuing process.
- Register early to optimize communication and understanding of potential next steps related to military support and guidance.
- Show your enthusiasm for an in-depth exploration and utilization of family-friendly government services for improved overall lives.