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October 23, 2004
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Main Section Research Room Main Page
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Main Section Genealogy
Main Section Veterans' Service Records
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Main Section Research Topics
Main Section Research Paths and Media Types
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Main Section Guide to Federal Records
Main Section Access to Archival Databases (AAD)
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Main Section Archives Library Information Center (ALIC)
Main Section Hire a Researcher
Main Section Citing Records in the National Archives
Main Section Locations and Hours
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Main Section Teaching with Documents
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Main Section National History Day
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Access by Minors (under 18) to the National Archives, Washington, DC Area

You need to be 14 years old to do research at the National Archives, unless you receive permission from the Research Center Branch Chief and are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Building security rules, however, may require a parent or guardian to be present for all or part of the time.

If you are 14 or older and have photo identification with your current address printed on it:

  • You do not need to have a parent or guardian with you.
  • Your ID should include your current address. We will accept a driver's license, learner's permit, non-driving state ID, or school ID.
  • You will be directed - as necessary - to the Customer Service Center to get a researcher card.
If you are 14 or older and do not have photo identification with your current address printed on it:
  • You must have a parent or guardian accompany you.
  • Your parent or guardian must have a photo ID with proof of current address.
  • Your parent or guardian must go with you to the Customer Service Center, as directed. The Customer Service Center will use your parent or guardian's ID for registration.
  • Your parent or guardian may leave once you have your researcher card.
  • You must have your researcher card with you in order to be able to come back without your parent or guardian.
If you are under 14:
  • You should obtain approval to research Federal records from the Research Center Branch Chief in advance of your visit. Approval is granted under limited circumstances.
  • Your parent or guardian must stay with you at all times while you conduct your research.
  • Your parent or guardian must have a photo ID with proof of current address. Both of you must go to the Customer Services Center to register for research, as directed.

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