Guide
How to Get a Certified Copy of Your DD-214
How veterans and next of kin request a DD-214 or military service records from the National Personnel Records Center using eVetRecs or SF-180 — who can request, what to include and timing.
Quick answer
Request it from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) online through eVetRecs or on Standard Form SF-180. Veterans can request their own records; next of kin can request a deceased veteran’s. Records 62 or more years past separation are archival and more broadly available. Ask for a certified copy — that’s what can be apostilled.
On this page
Who can request
- The veteran.
- Next of kin of a deceased veteran (surviving spouse, parent, child, sibling), with proof of death.
- Anyone, for archival records (62+ years after separation), usually for a fee.
Step by step
Gather details
Full name used in service, service number or SSN, branch, dates of service, date and place of birth.
Submit via eVetRecs or SF-180
eVetRecs is online; SF-180 can be mailed or faxed.
State the purpose
Explain the record is needed for use abroad and ask for a certified copy.
Track and wait
Timing varies; complex or older records take longer.
Why your own copy usually isn’t enough
A member’s copy or plain photocopy usually can’t be apostilled. The Department of State authenticates a recognized federal certification — typically the NPRC’s certified copy.
When you’ll need it abroad
- Veteran benefits abroad
- Residency applications that weigh military service
- Foreign pension claims
- Employment abroad requiring proof of service
Troubleshooting
You don't know your service number
Your SSN and full service details usually suffice.
The record was affected by the 1973 NPRC fire
The NPRC can often reconstruct service from other sources — it takes longer.
You need it urgently
Some emergency situations qualify for expedited handling — explain the need.
The DD-214 has errors
Corrections go through your service branch's review process.
Next: getting it apostilled
Once you have the document, it needs authentication before a foreign authority will accept it. See how to apostille it. Our price is $299 per document for Hague Convention countries and $399 for non-Hague countries including embassy legalization, with government fees included.
Frequently asked questions
Is requesting a DD-214 free for veterans?
Generally yes for veterans and next of kin; archival records may carry a fee.
How long does the NPRC take?
It varies widely with record age and complexity.
Can next of kin get a DD-214?
Yes, for a deceased veteran, with proof of death.
Can I get a DD-214 online instantly?
Some veterans can access records through online portals, but certified copies come from the NPRC.
Do I need a DD-214 or a full service record?
Usually the DD-214; some foreign authorities ask for more.
Sources: U.S. Department of State — Authenticate Your Document · Hague Conference — Apostille Section · National Archives — Request military records. Federal Apostille USA is a private service, not a government agency.
Ready to start?
Order online in minutes, or call and we will walk you through it. Federal documents from anywhere in the U.S. — one flat price, all government fees included.