Congratulations! Now that the wedding is over and honeymoon and all that are good to g, aren’t you sort of wondering, well what now? You’ve done all you could to find the information - googled, read books - but it’s still confusing. I’ve been there, too, believe me. This blog is my first in a series of writings that will explore different aspects of your New Navy Wife Life that should be covered after you get married.

It is important to remember that the following information contained in this series of blogs is based on the experiences of other Navy Wives, including myself. Therefore, all information should be double checked before you go about applying it to your life.

What Kind of Paperwork?

Before we start, it is important to note that you must get a copy of your official marriage certificate. The copy you receive at the ceremony is not the official copy.  You can find out where to get the official copy from your officiant.

So let’s cover the paperwork shall we?

• Update Page 2 (this is something your sailor takes care of, so this blog will not cover it)
• Enrollment into DEERS
• Gain Military Dependent ID
• Register your car for Base

Enrollment into DEERS

DEERS stands for Defense Eligibility Enrollment System. It is important to note that you must enroll in DEERS before getting a military ID. You also need to be enrolled in order to be covered under TRICARE (to be covered in a later blog). In order to enroll in DEERS, you will need at least the following documents:

• Marriage Certificate
• Social Security Card
• Two Forms of ID (at least one has to be Photo ID)
• Department of Defense Form 1172

Gain Military Dependent ID

Your Dependent ID is both a form of Identification as well as a Privilege Card. Generally speaking your ID will give you the following privileges: MWR, The Navy Exchange, and the Commissary. You need to keep it with you at all times on base. In order to get your ID card, you need to be enrolled in DEERS and you would typically need the same documents you needed to enroll in DEERS (Marriage Certificate, Social Security Card, Photo ID, another ID, DoD Form 1172). You should probably call ahead to make sure and also find out if you have to make an appointment (some bases are busier than others).

Register your Vehicle(s)

Before you are able to drive your car around base you need to get your Base Decals. Generally speaking, you need at least your ID card, Title, Insurance Card, Drivers’ License, and Registration. Please note that each state has its own regulations with regard to registration. It is highly recommended you call ahead to find out which specific documents you will need.

So that covers the basics! Stick around for the next installment of New Navy Wife Kit. I will be covering Healthcare. If you have any other tips for newly married Navy Wives, feel free to add them below!

Last update : 07/23/2009 04:09 PM

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