For new military families especially those navigating boot camp, A-School, AIT, Tech School, or early-duty-station life military ID cards and DEERS can be one of the most confusing parts of the journey.
This guide explains everything in a clear, family-friendly way:
- what DEERS is
- how ID cards work
- who qualifies
- when families get access
- what benefits depend on DEERS
- what happens during training
- how Guard & Reserve enrollment works
- frequently asked questions
This applies to every branch: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force.
1. What Is DEERS?
DEERS stands for:
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System
It is the Department of Defense database that:
- verifies military service
- tracks dependents
- determines eligibility for benefits
- enables access to military services & systems
If someone is not in DEERS, they cannot:
- get a military ID card
- use Tricare
- access most base services
- be recognized as a dependent
- receive many military benefits
DEERS is the foundation for ALL family military benefits.
2. What Is a Military ID Card?
A military ID card is an official DoD identification that proves:
- military status
- dependent status
- access rights
- identity on bases, clinics, and installations
There are several types:
Active Duty ID (CAC)
For service members only.
Used for:
- base access
- computers & secure systems
- medical care
- deployments
- identification
Dependent ID (DD Form 1173)
For:
- spouses
- children
- sometimes qualifying dependents
Allows access to:
- bases
- medical facilities
- commissary
- exchange (PX/NEX/BX/CGX)
- recreation centers
- MWR facilities
Guard & Reserve ID (CAC)
Similar to Active Duty CAC but benefits differ until activated.
Retiree ID
For retired service members and dependents.
3. Who Is Eligible for a Military Dependent ID Card?
Dependents who qualify:
- Spouse
- Children (birth, adopted, or stepchildren)
- Children up to age 21
- Children up to 23 if full-time students
- Children with special needs (case-by-case)
- Certain legal dependents with proper documentation
Fiancés, girlfriends, and boyfriends do not qualify.
4. When Do Families Get Military ID Cards?
This varies based on training status and marital status:
If the service member is married BEFORE entering boot camp:
The spouse and children can get their IDs as soon as the service member is entered into DEERS.
This is usually before or during boot camp.
If the service member gets married AFTER boot camp begins:
The spouse cannot get an ID until:
- The service member submits marriage paperwork
- DEERS is updated
- The service member reaches a point in training where they can access the necessary admin offices
This often happens:
- during AIT / A-School
- after Tech School
- at the first duty station
If the service member is NOT married:
No ID cards are issued to parents, siblings, or significant others.
5. What Benefits Depend on DEERS Enrollment?
Once a dependent is in DEERS, they may be eligible for:
-
Medical care (Tricare)
-
Base access
-
Commissary & Exchange
-
MWR facilities
-
Dependent travel (rare but possible)
-
Financial benefits & allowances (BAH-with-dependents)
-
Life insurance & casualty notifications
-
Dental plans (if enrolled)
Without DEERS, none of the above are available.
6. How DEERS Enrollment Works (Simple Process)
Step 1 — Service member provides required documents:
- marriage certificate
- birth certificates
- adoption papers (if applicable)
- SSNs
- photo ID for adult dependents
Step 2 — Service member goes to an ID/DEERS office
These are located on most military bases.
Step 3 — Dependent goes to the ID office
With:
- photo ID
- completed DD Form 1172-2 (signed by service member)
- any required documents
Step 4 — Dependent receives ID card
Usually issued on the same day.
7. Special Considerations for Guard & Reserve Families
Guard & Reserve families are in DEERS, but benefits differ based on activation status.
When NOT on active duty (drill status):
- limited medical benefits
- military ID still allows base access
- commissary/exchange privileges remain
- no full-time Tricare unless enrolled separately
When activated for 30+ days:
Guard/Reserve families receive:
- full Tricare
- full BAH
- full benefits
- full ID access
When activation ends:
Benefits revert to drill-status rules.
8. What Happens If an ID Is Lost or Expired?
Dependents can get a new ID at any DEERS/ID office.
Required:
- service member’s presence
OR - a notarized DD Form 1172-2
- proof of identity
Expired IDs must be renewed to keep access.
9. Common Military ID / DEERS Myths (Families Get Confused Here)
“I automatically get base access because my spouse is in the military.”
Not true — you must be enrolled in DEERS and have a dependent ID.
“I can get an ID just because we’re engaged.”
False — fiancés don’t qualify.
“My child always has base access.”
Only with a valid dependent ID.
“DEERS enrollment happens at boot camp.”
Sometimes — but often finalized during AIT/A-School or at the first duty station.
“Guard families get full benefits automatically.”
Only when activated for 30+ days.
“I can keep my ID if we separate.”
Benefits end when DEERS is updated and eligibility ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to get an ID?
Often yes — most ID offices use online appointments.
Can I use my ID to get onto any base?
Usually yes, but some installations have additional security requirements.
Do children need their own ID?
Yes — typically starting around age 10.
Do parents of service members qualify?
Only in rare, special dependency cases.
Do IDs automatically update when rank changes?
Not for dependents — they’re not rank-dependent.
Supporting Your Military Family Through Every Stage
Understanding ID cards and DEERS enrollment helps families navigate:
- training transitions
- first duty stations
- healthcare setup
- base access
- benefits eligibility
- future travel & PCS moves
It empowers families and reduces stress during an already busy season of life.
Show Your Pride as Your Family Begins the Military Journey
Whether your service member is just starting training or moving to their first duty station, families love showing their support with:
- branch-specific shirts
- Proud Mom/Dad/Sibling apparel
- graduation and unit pride items
- patriotic keepsakes
Explore branch collections for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force
Oak & Liberty proudly supports military families with resources that make the journey clearer — and apparel that honors every milestone.