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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register?
Yes. On your first visit you will need to complete a registration form and, if looking at original documents, provide proof of identity. The following forms of proof will be accepted:
- CARN ticket
- Driving licence
- Official letter with address
- Family allowance book
- Bank statement
- Benefits book or equivalent
- Passport
- Pension book or card
- Official ID card
- Medical card
- Vehicle registration document
- Disabled person’s registration
- Post office savings book
Once you have provided proof of identity, you will not need to do so again for another year. However, we encourage all searchers to obtain a CARN (Country-wide Archive Research Network) ticket from us. A CARN ticket is valid for 4 years and is accepted as proof of identity at many record offices. Certain specified forms of proof of identity which provide a name and address are required in order to obtain a CARN ticket from our record office. A valid driver’s licence is an acceptable form of proof of identity.