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The National Archives

The National Archives

Readers' tickets

A reader's ticket is only required to look at original documents in the Document Reading Room or Map and Large Document Reading Room.

You do not need a reader's ticket to look at copies of documents in the Open Reading Room, or to access online or microfiche/film resources. Many of our most popular records can be found here, particularly those useful to family historians.

Registering for a reader's ticket

You will only need a reader’s ticket if you are consulting original documents. You can register for a ticket on any computer terminal in the Reading Rooms at Kew. Registration is then completed at the registration desk in the Open Reading Room.

To obtain a reader's ticket you must bring two documents with you – one to prove your identity and one to prove your address.

The process only takes a few minutes and includes us taking your photograph for the photocard. The photograph must show your full head without any head or face covering. If such an item is worn for religious or medical reasons, please notify a member of staff.

Acceptable documents for registration are:

Proof of your identity (must include a valid signature):

  • Passport
  • Driving licence
  • Bank card
  • Credit card
  • National ID card
  • Police/Customs/Home Office/warrant card
  • Forces ID card
  • Sea/Air Masters licence
  • NUJ pass
  • Government/ local council staff ID

Proof of your address (internet printouts or online statements are not accepted):

  • Utility bill (issued within the last three months)
  • Bank/building society statement (issued within the last three months)
  • Credit card statement (issued within the last three months)
  • Council tax bill
  • HM Revenue and Customs statement
  • Passports with address (where the address has been officially entered by the issuing authority)
  • National ID card with address
  • Driving licence with address
  • Home Office permit to stay
  • University certificate for hall of residence (stamped and signed by institution)
  • TV licence
  • Firearms licence
  • Home insurance policy
  • International student photo card

Renewing or replacing your reader's Ticket

Readers' tickets are valid for up to three years, depending on the length and type of research, from the date of issue and they can be renewed after this period with proof of both identity and address.

Lost or forgotten tickets can be replaced for a charge of £5.00, upon production of proof or identity and address.

Stolen tickets will be replaced without charge if you show the registration desk a police crime reference number and acceptable identification.