Service Dog IDUnited States Service Dog Registry
Information

Service Dog Certification

There is no official federal or state certification for service dogs in the United States. This page explains what handlers actually receive when they register and order an ID card.

Is there an official service dog certification?

No. The ADA does not require or recognize any national certification, registry, training certificate or ID card for service animals. A dog qualifies as a service animal based on individualized training to perform disability-related tasks — not based on a document.

What do registries and ID cards actually provide?

Private registries like Service Dog ID create a voluntary identification record based on information declared by the handler. The record produces a digital ID card, a printable card, a registration certificate, a permanent QR verification page and Apple/Google Wallet passes. These tools can make day-to-day interactions smoother, but they do not change a dog's legal status.

Why handlers still carry an ID card

  • Quick, calm verification in public places
  • A visual signal for staff that the dog is working
  • A concise ADA summary printed on the back of the card
  • Permanent online record accessible by QR code

How to get started

Registering takes about five minutes. You provide handler and dog information, upload a photo, pay the one-time $19.99 fee, and receive your documents by email.

Register a service dog

Service Dog ID is a private registry. Registration is voluntary, not required by law, and does not certify or officially register a service dog.