Proof of Identity
This page contains a brief overview of the DVA requirements for Proof of Identity. The full current version of the DVA factsheet can be viewed by clicking here.
Why do I need to prove my identity?
A suitable level of identification is required to protect both you and DVA from the risk of identity fraud.
How do I prove my identity?
When you lodge your claim for pension, benefit or allowance with DVA, you must prove your identity. You can establish your identity by providing original documents or certified copies from DVA’s approved list.
If the documents include details of your current residential address, you need to produce an original or a certified copy of:
- 1 x Category A document, plus
- 2 x Category B documents.
If the documents from Category A and B do not provide evidence of your current residential address, then you must also provide a document from Category C. You will need to produce:
- 1 x Category A document, plus
- 2 x Category B documents, plus
- 1 x Category C document.
If you have legally changed your name, you must provide an additional document which shows how the name was changed (for example, a marriage certificate).
Category A
At least one document from this category is required to show proof of birth in Australia or proof of arrival in Australia if you were born overseas. Acceptable documents are:
- Australian passport (current) – can only be used as a category A OR a category B document. It cannot be used in both categories concurrently
- Full Australian birth certificate
- Record of immigration status
- Foreign passport and current Australian visa
- Travel document and current Australian visa
- Certificate of evidence of residence status; and
- Citizenship certificate.
Category B
- Australian driver’s licence (current and original)
- Australian passport (current) – can only be used as a category A OR a category B document. It cannot be used in both categories concurrently
- Australian Defence Force (ADF) identification card
- Firearms licence (current and original)
- Current overseas passport with valid entry stamp or visa
- Medicare card
- Change of name certification (for marriage or legal name change – showing link with previous name/s)
- Credit or bank account card
- DVA card
- Security guard/crowd control licence
- Australian marriage certificate issued by a registry of births, deaths and marriages
- Ceremonial marriage certificate issued by a marriage celebrant on the day of marriage; and
- Tertiary identification card
Category C
Documents from Category C provide evidence of residential address or residence in a nursing home or residential care facility*. Acceptable documents are:
- Utilities notice
- Rent details; and
- Document from nursing home or residential care facility that provides evidence of residence.
*Note: You will only need to provide documents from this category if none of the documents you produce to satisfy Category A and B provides evidence of your current residential address.
