The Archives Card is a single archive reader’s ticket which gives you access to a wealth of original archive material held in archives across the UK. Anyone aged 14 or over can apply for an Archives Card, which is free of charge and valid for 5 years.
You need to apply for a card if you wish to view original documents in any of the archives participating in the scheme. You can start the simple registration process by completing the application form:
To complete your registration:
- Visit one of the participating archives within 3 months of submitting your form (otherwise your form will be deleted and you will have to enter your details again)
- Bring with you 2 forms of identity as listed on the Archives Card website.
- A member of archives staff will check these are valid and issue your card.
A recent passport style photograph (head and shoulders only) in electronic form is an essential part of the registration process. You can either add this yourself to your registration form or wait until you visit your chosen archive to complete registration, where a member of staff will take your photograph.
The Archives Card scheme is operated by ARA Commercial, which is a subsidiary of the Archives and Records Association, the leading body for archives in the UK and Ireland.