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Need a copy of your DD214? Here’s how you get one!
Your DD214, the holy grail of military documents. Whether requested by a government entity, educational facility, or private business, this document will almost always be a requirement. And of course, in order to take advantage of the many benefits from having served in our military, a veteran will also need to first show proof of service.
So how does one go about getting a copy? First of all let me strongly suggest that before any serviceman or woman leaves the military, they obtain multiple copies of their DD214 from their personnel/records office prior to discharge. Getting a copy of your DD214 is typically the last task a transitioning service member will do, like a right of [civilian] passage however, the “Character of Service” box is the field that most employers and businesses will look at to determine your discharge type so make sure you get as many copies as possible. If you need a copy after the fact, simply visit our National Archives online at https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records and submit a request.
Step 1
Visit the official military archives website at https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records and click on: “Start Request Online”
Step 2
Archives will route you to the veterans’ records portal which will allow you to request a new copy of your records.
Step 3
Click on: “Make a new request”
Answer some basic demographic information and service-related questions
Once you have completed all of the questions, you’ll be able to review your answers before submitting
Once you successfully submit your request, you will receive a confirmation number
(Note: Keep this confirmation number handy so you can return to the website to check on the status of your request.)
You’ll also receive email confirmation (if you provided your email address), so check your inbox, junk, and spam folders.