Types of Veteran Identification
There are several forms of veteran ID, each serving different purposes. Here's what exists and when to use each.
DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge)
What It Is
Your DD-214 is the single most important document from your military service. It's your official proof of service and discharge status, and it's required for virtually every veteran benefit application.
What's On It
- Your name, SSN, DOB
- Branch of service
- Dates of active duty
- Military education and training
- Decorations, medals, and awards
- Character of discharge (Honorable, General Under Honorable, etc.)
- Separation/reenlistment reason codes
Getting Your DD-214
If you've lost your DD-214 or never received a copy:
- Online — request through VA.gov or the National Archives (eVetRecs)
- By mail — submit SF-180 (Request Pertaining to Military Records) to the National Personnel Records Center
- Processing time — can take weeks to months depending on the request method and record availability
Protecting Your DD-214
- Store copies securely — consider a safe deposit box, fireproof safe, and digital backup
- Record it with your county — many county clerks/recorders will file your DD-214 for free, creating an official local record
- Never give away your only copy — always provide copies, not originals
- Be careful who you share it with — your DD-214 contains sensitive personal information
Warning: Your DD-214 contains your Social Security number and other personal identifiers. Never post it online or share it with unverified parties. Identity thieves specifically target military records.
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
What It Is
The VHIC is the ID card you receive when you enroll in VA health care. It's the primary card used at VA medical facilities.
How to Get One
- Enroll in VA health care
- Visit your local VA medical center
- Have your photo taken at the enrollment office
- Card is issued on-site or mailed to you
What It's Used For
- Check-in at VA medical facilities
- Identify yourself as a veteran for VA services
- Some retailers accept it for veteran discounts (though it's not officially for that purpose)
Veteran ID Card (VIC)
What It Is
A federal ID card specifically designed to prove veteran status — primarily for commercial discounts and services (retailer discounts, veteran-specific events, etc.).
Eligibility
- Served in the US Armed Forces (including Reserves and National Guard)
- Discharged under honorable conditions (Honorable or General Under Honorable)
How to Get One
- Apply online at VA.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic
- Upload a photo meeting passport-style requirements
- The VA verifies your service and mails the card
Limitations
- Not a government-issued photo ID for things like boarding aircraft or entering federal facilities
- Not accepted in place of a DD-214 for benefits
Veteran Designation on State ID / Driver's License
What It Is
Most states now offer a "VETERAN" designation on your state driver's license or ID card. This is the most practical form of everyday veteran identification.
How to Get It
- Visit your state's DMV / MVA
- Provide proof of veteran status (DD-214 or VA letter)
- Request the veteran designation when renewing or updating your license
- Fee varies by state (many states offer it for free)
Why It's Useful
- Most widely recognized form of veteran ID
- Already in your wallet — no extra card needed
- Accepted by most retailers for veteran discounts
- Accepted as valid ID for multiple purposes
Military Retiree ID (DD-2 / Uniformed Services ID Card)
If you retired from the military (20+ years), you retain your military ID card (DD-2). This provides:
- Access to military installations
- Commissary and exchange (PX/BX) shopping privileges
- Military health care (TRICARE)
- Space-available travel on military aircraft
Note: Non-retired veterans do not receive this card. Congress has expanded commissary and exchange access to all veterans with VA health care eligibility through the Veterans' Online Shopping Benefit.
Which ID Do You Need?
| Purpose | Best ID |
|---|---|
| VA health care check-in | VHIC |
| Filing benefits claims | DD-214 |
| Retail discounts | State license w/ veteran designation or VIC |
| Military base access | DD-2 (retirees only) or sponsored access |
| Proving service to employers | DD-214 copy or state ID w/ veteran designation |
| State veteran benefits applications | DD-214 + VA rating letter |
Replacing Lost Cards
| Card | How to Replace |
|---|---|
| DD-214 | National Archives (SF-180) or VA.gov |
| VHIC | Visit VA medical center enrollment office |
| VIC | Re-apply online at VA.gov |
| DD-2 (retiree) | Visit any military ID card office (RAPIDS) |
| State license | Your state DMV |
One More Thing: Your VA Benefits Summary Letter
While not an ID card, your VA Benefits Summary Letter (sometimes called a "VA award letter" or "benefits verification letter") is frequently needed. It states your:
- Service-connected disability rating
- Monthly compensation amount
- Effective dates
Download it from VA.gov anytime. You'll need it for property tax exemptions, state benefits, and other purposes.