Does my sponsor have to be with me to get an ID Card?
Yes, with the following exceptions:
- If the sponsor signs DD Form 1172-2 (Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment) in front of a Verifying Official, the family member may bring this form unaccompanied by the sponsor.
- If the sponsor signs DD Form 1172-2 (Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment) and has it notarized, the family member may bring this form unaccompanied by the sponsor.
- The family member may sign the DD Form 1172-2 (Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment) using a general power of attorney (P.O.A.).
- Sponsor needs to visit ID Card Office Online and complete DD Form 1172-2 electronically.
What documentation is needed to add, remove or make changes to DEERS?
The sponsor will always need original or true certified supporting documentation to make any changes, (i.e. Birth, Death, Marriage Certificate, Social Security Cards, Divorce, Adoption, and Custody Decrees)
If the sponsor is deployed, how can a family member receive an ID Card?
- If sponsor has access to CAC enabled computer, the DD Form 1172-2 can be completed by visiting ID Card Office Online
- The dependent has a Power of Attorney allowing him/her to conduct business in the sponsor's DEERS record.
Can a retiring sponsor on terminal leave be issued a retirement ID Card before the retirement date?
Yes, up to 90 days prior. Although the system allows for this, it is not recommended due to the possibility of a gap in TRICARE coverage when entering a date before the actual retirement date.
How is a spouse added to DEERS?
The sponsor will bring in the marriage certificate, birth certificate, social security card and picture ID (ie. Drivers License, State ID, ect.). For non U.S. Citizens a temporary ID number (TIN) will be used in lieu of a social security number. When foreign documents are presented, an English translation is required, no exception. (check with army OneSource or U.S. Department of State for assistance).
How are children added to DEERS?
It is dependent on the following:
- A female sponsor needs only bring the children's birth certificate and Social Security card.
- An unmarried male sponsor must have the child's birth certificate, Social Security card, and judicial determination (i.e. court-ordered child support or divorce decree naming children as his own). If no judicial determination has been made, forms are available at an ID Card Center that must be sent to DFAS for approval.
- If a male sponsor is married and his wife is already on DEERS, he need only bring the child's birth certificate and Social Security Card.
Can step-children be added to DEERS?
Yes, as long as they reside with that service member and are not already the dependents of another service member (unless the sponsor's spouse has physical custody, in which case such document must also be presented).