How to get a copy of your DD-214 (military service record)
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your DD-214 from the National Personnel Records Center. The DD-214 is the master document for almost every veteran benefit claim. 4 steps for veterans, plus 1 step for next-of-kin requesting a deceased veteran's record.
What you'll need
- SF-180 form (Request Pertaining to Military Records) — or use eVetRecs online
- Photo ID
- Service number or Social Security Number
- Approximate dates of service + branch
Step-by-step
Step 1: Try eVetRecs online (fastest)
Go to vetrecs.archives.gov. Most post-2000 service records are digital and can be requested via eVetRecs. Typical turnaround: 7-14 days. You'll need a service number, dates of service, and a way to verify identity. Free.
Reference: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
Step 2: Mail SF-180 to NPRC if eVetRecs unavailable
If eVetRecs returns "no record available" (often happens for older records), mail SF-180 to the National Personnel Records Center, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, MO 63138. Typical turnaround: 30-90 days. The 1973 fire destroyed many pre-1973 Army + Air Force records; alternate documentation (pay records, separation papers, VA records) may be needed.
Step 3: For deceased veterans (next-of-kin)
If requesting for a deceased veteran, you must be the surviving spouse who has not remarried, a child, parent, or sibling. Include a copy of the death certificate. NPRC will release the long-form DD-214 to next-of-kin (vs the abbreviated version a non-NOK would receive).
Step 4: Free help from a CVSO
County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) routinely help veterans obtain DD-214s. They have direct access to NPRC liaison contacts and often resolve "missing record" cases faster than self-filed requests. Find your nearest CVSO at warriorsfund.org/find-cvso. Service is FREE.
Critical tips
- You may need MORE than one copy. Many programs require certified copies — request multiple at once. Standard fee: free for veterans, $15 per certification for next-of-kin.
- If you're a Texas resident, the Texas Veterans Commission can sometimes provide a state-archive copy faster than NPRC. Check with your local CVSO.
- Long-form DD-214 includes character of service + reason for separation; short-form does not. Always request long-form if it's for a benefit application.