The U.S. Armed Forces maintain an Official Military Personnel File, or OMPF,for every veteran and service member. If you are a veteran or a member of the Army, Navy, Marines, or Air Force and are serving as active duty, reserve, or guard, or if you are retired, you can usethe Defense Personnel Records Information Retrieval System page on the milConnect website to request and receive scanned copies of documents in your OMPF.
In some cases, OMPF records are not yet scanned into the DPRIS system on milConnect. To determine whether your documents are available online, what to do if they are not, and for many more details about your OMPF documents, visit the DPRIS section of the milConnect frequently asked questions page.
For OMPF records not available in milConnect, military veteran health records, or for records requests from a veteran's next of kin or a member of the public, please visit the National Archives - National Personnel Record Center, Military Personnel Records for assistance:
Link: https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center/military-personnel
Link: https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center/other-medical-records
FAQs
The fastest way to obtain a copy is through their website, at http://www.archives.gov/veterans/. Expect a two to three week wait to receive requested records. The SF-180 is also available at your local CalVet Veteran Services CVSO Locations or online.
How hard is it to get a copy of your DD-214? ›
Requesting your Documents
DD-214s can be requested either on-line or by mail. You will receive your DD-214 from the Archives in about about three to four weeks.
Which copy of DD-214 is most important? ›
For unemployment benefits, veterans affairs benefits, as well as for several other services, the "Member's Copy 4" is usually requested but any other "long form" copy is acceptable. All eight copies are identical except Member 1, the "short form," which lacks this critical information.
Is it legal to ask for DD-214? ›
However, an employer should not ask an applicant the reason he or she was discharged from the military or request to see military discharge papers (DD-214), except when directly related to the job or to determine veteran's preference.
How much does it cost to request military records? ›
Generally there is no charge for basic military personnel and medical record information provided to veterans, next of kin and authorized representatives from Federal (non-archival) records. Some companies advertise DD Form 214 research services and will charge a fee for obtaining copies.
How do I verify my military record? ›
Verification of Military Service
Please use the Defense Manpower Data Center's (DMDC) Military Verification service to verify if someone is in the military. The website will tell you if the person is currently serving in the military.
Can I view my DD214 online? ›
You can request your military service records online using the National Archives' eVetRecs tool.
Is a DD214 public record? ›
The Privacy Act of 1974 limits access to a veteran's DD214 to only the service member (either past or present) or the member's legal guardian; only these persons will have access to almost any information contained in that member's own record.
How long does a DD214 request take? ›
The NPRC is the records custodian for most discharged and retired members of all branches of service. The fastest way to obtain a copy is through the NPRC website. Expect a two to three week wait to receive requested records.
What is the best document to prove military service? ›
Veterans
- DD214 form.
- Driver's License or DMV-Issued State ID with VETERAN endorsem*nt.
- Honorable Discharge Certificate.
- NGB form 22.
- Reserve Separation Orders.
- Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC), or Veteran Identification Card (VIC)
Proof of U.S. Military Service includes your military service papers, such as your Form DD-214 - Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.
How can I get a copy of my DD214 immediately? ›
If you need assistance obtaining your military records, then contact any County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO). To obtain your DD-214 on your own, submit your request via the National Archives and Records Administration webpage or call 314-801-0800.
Do military records show up on background checks? ›
Does Your Military Record Show Up on Background Check? Your military record will not automatically appear in a general background check unless your potential employer requests it. Employers will need to get your permission to request your military record.
Do employers look at DD214? ›
Upon receipt of consent of the former service member, employers will most likely be given a copy of the DD214. This report provides a general overview of a person's experience in the military. Employers should examine the form thoroughly to understand if the applicant is fit for the job they're applying for.
How long do military records last? ›
The electronic AMHRR will store records for 62 years after a Soldier is discharged, retired or deceased while in service. The U.S. Army will transfer the AMHRR to the NPRC for permanent storage after expiration of the 62-year period.
Where are all military records stored? ›
These records belong to the National Archives and become archival 62 years after the service member's separation from the military. This is a rolling date. For example, the current year (2023) minus 62 years is 1961.
What is the form to request military records? ›
The Standard Form 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records (SF180) is used to request information from military records. Certain identifying information is necessary to determine the location of an individual's record of military service.
How do I get official military photos? ›
Official Military Personnel Files (OMPF)
While there is no guarantee a photograph will be attached, a photo may be enclosed within an individual's Official Military Personnel File (OMPF). You can find more information about requesting an OMPF at https://www.archives.gov/veterans.
