COMDTINST 5512.1C — Identification Cards For Members Of The Uniformed Services, Their Eligible Family Members, And Other Eligible Personnel

COMDTINST 5512.1C governs identification cards for uniformed service members, eligible family members, and other eligible personnel.

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  • Publication number: COMDTINST 5512.1C
  • Title: IDENTIFICATION CARDS FOR MEMBERS OF THE UNIFORMED SERVICES, THEIR ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS, AND OTHER ELIGIBLE PERSONNEL
  • Date: 6/1/2023
  • Proponent: CG-1221

View COMDTINST 5512.1C on armypubs.army.mil


It covers ID card preparation, issuance, use, accountability, and disposal through DEERS and RAPIDS. It requires compliance with the publication and addresses Common Access Cards, dependent eligibility, document examination, and expiration periods.

Applies to: This instruction applies to Regular Air Force (RegAF), USSF, Air Force Reserve (AFR), and Air National Guard (ANG) personnel, except where noted otherwise.

Topics covered

  • Uniformed Services identification cards
  • Common Access Cards
  • Dependent eligibility
  • DEERS enrollment
  • RAPIDS issuing facilities
  • Prisoner of war identification
  • Document examination
  • ID card expiration periods

Questions and answers

What background checks are required before a CAC is issued?

At a minimum, a completed FBI fingerprint check with favorable results and submission of a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NAC/I) is required. (paragraph 3)

How long can a TDRL member’s dependent ID card be issued?

After initial 30-month issue period, reissue card for 30 months. If member is not eligible for Medicare, Part A at the end of the first 30-month period, reissue the card at 1-year intervals for a maximum of 5 years from the date the member was placed on the TDRL. (paragraph 4)

What is required when renewing an ID card for a permanently incapacitated child?

Do not require a current medical sufficiency statement or physician's statement when renewing an ID card for a permanently incapacitated child. (paragraph 6)

When may a temporary ID card be issued for missing certified documents?

A temporary ID card may be issued until the certified copy of the marriage certificate or birth certificate is received. (paragraph 7)

What information should a school provide for a student’s ID card eligibility?

The sample letter in Attachment 9 is not associated with the National Student Clearinghouse and may be used directly by the school registrar’s office in verifying a student’s enrollment status as full-time, or the school’s verification for full-time enrollment (letter) is acceptable. (paragraph 2-3)

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