CarInsurance.com Insights
- Submit your father’s DD-214 (long form) or other acceptable military documents to USAA.
- You may also need to provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, Social Security Number or passport.
- USAA membership eligibility passes to children only if the parent is/was a USAA member.
If your father served in the military, you may qualify for USAA insurance, but proving your eligibility requires the right paperwork. To verify your status as his child, you’ll need his DD-214 and your own government-issued ID.
This guide explains exactly what documents USAA requires, how to apply step by step, and the key eligibility rules that determine whether you qualify.
Sophie’s Quick TipThe DD-214 form is the most commonly accepted document, but if your father is still on active duty, his current military orders will work just as well. No DD214 required for active service members.
What documents do you need to prove veteran status for USAA?
Below is a list of acceptable military documents for USAA eligibility:
- Branch of Service
- Military ID or service records (DD-214 for veterans)
- Rank
- Entry to active service date
Required identification documents:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued ID card
- U.S. Passport
How do you apply for USAA insurance as a child of a veteran?
To apply for USAA as a veteran’s child, first confirm your parent is a USAA member, then create an account at USAA.com. According to USAA membership requirements, eligibility is limited to children of members; military service alone doesn’t grant eligibility if the parent never became a member.
Step-by-step application process:
- Confirm your father’s USAA membership: Ask your father if he’s a USAA member. You’re eligible for USAA insurance if your father is a member. If he is deceased, USAA can verify his membership status based on the information such as his full name, date of birth, branch of military service and service dates.
- Create a USAA account: Go to USAA.com and click “Join USAA.”
- Provide the required information: You’ll be asked for your personal details (name, DOB, address, SSN), your parents’ military service and membership details and any documents to verify identity and eligibility.
- Select and apply for insurance products: Once your membership is approved, you can browse insurance options, get quotes and apply for policies online.
Sophie’s Smart StatYou could save an average of $840 on your annual premium when you switch to USAA auto insurance.
Learn more about USAA, pros and cons, average rates and coverage options in our detailed USAA car insurance review.
What if you don’t have access to your father’s military documents?
If you do not have access to your father’s military documents, you can still apply by providing his full name, date of birth, branch of service and service dates. USAA can verify existing membership through internal records, but if your father never joined USAA, you won’t qualify for membership based on military service alone.
Alternative verification methods
If your father is alive:
- Request that he share his USAA membership number
- Ask him to add you as an eligible family member through his account
If your father is deceased:
- Provide his full legal name, date of birth and Social Security Number
- Specify branch of service and service dates
- USAA will search internal membership records
- Consider requesting DD214 from the National Archives
How to request DD214 from the National Archives:
- Start and sign in: Click on Launch the eVetRecs System from the Archives site, and then click on Make a New Request, and sign in (or create an account) using ID.me to verify your identity.
- Enter request details: Provide basic personal and service information, choose the type of records you want and add any extra details or documents as prompted.
- Submit and receive confirmation: Review your entries, submit the request, and you’ll get a confirmation (with a case number) and instructions on how responses will be delivered.
Speak with a friendly agent and get your quote in minutes!
Are stepchildren and adopted children eligible for USAA?
USAA extends full membership eligibility to stepchildren and adopted children of USAA members. Once a military member or veteran joins USAA, their stepchildren and adopted children receive the same membership privileges as biological children, with no restrictions.
Proof requirements for stepchildren and adopted children:
- Parent’s USAA membership number
- Birth certificate or adoption papers showing the relationship
- Government-issued ID
Can grandchildren of veterans join USAA?
Yes, but only if their parent (the veteran’s child) is a USAA member. USAA membership doesn’t skip generations; it must pass sequentially. A veteran’s grandchild can join only if their parent becomes a USAA member.
Learn more about USAA eligibility for grandchildren in our complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my grandfather’s military service to join USAA?
No, you must have an eligible parent who is a USAA member. Military service eligibility doesn’t skip generations. Your parent (the veteran’s child) must join USAA first before you become eligible.
How much does a USAA membership cost?
USAA membership is free. There are no fees to join or maintain membership. You only pay for the specific financial products or insurance policies you choose to purchase.
Do I need my father’s permission to join USAA?
No, once your parent is a USAA member, you’re independently eligible. You can join without their direct permission or involvement, though you’ll need to verify the family relationship.
Sources
- National Archives. “Veterans’ Service Records.” Accessed February 2026.
- USAA.com. “Member focused. Mission led.” Accessed February 2026.
Still have a question? Ask our experts
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs
