Proof of Age Documents definition

Providing proof of age demonstrates that you are as old as you claim to be. Normally, you will be asked for proof of age once you turn 18.

Proof of age will typically only be legally recognized with certain government, educational, or military forms of identification and vital records.

These documents and IDs include:

• Birth Certificate, recorded before turning 5 years of age
• Driver's License
• U.S. Passport
• School Identification
• Record of birth or baptism from a church
• Military Record
• Census Record

Proof of Age Categories

Your evidence of age documents may be placed into separate categories of identification.

There are two categories identification can fall under:

• Primary evidence of age
• Alternative evidence of age

In most cases, one form of primary ID will be enough as proof of age. However, if you do not have a primary form of ID, you can show multiple alternative documents, such as a vaccination record or insurance policy.

What Is Proof of Age Used for

Certain organizations, businesses, agencies, and institutions may ask for you for proof of age to complete a transaction, apply, or register for a certain certification or document.

You will usually need to prove your age to find employment, get a driver’s license, travel alone, and receive other government-related benefits or documents.

You may also be asked for proof of age to enter establishments that are meant for customers 18 years of age or older.

Typically, for your proof of age to be accepted, it must be submitted before its expiration date.