Get a reader's ticket

A man and woman with a document

Apply for or renew a reader’s ticket to access the Reading Room of the National Archives.

A man and woman with a document
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The Reading Room of the National Archives is open to all members of the public for research purposes. Visitors must sign the attendance book each day and follow Reading Room guidelines during their visit.

To consult archival material, you will need a reader’s ticket. This ticket allows you to use the Reading Room and to order documents in advance of your visit.

Age Requirements

  • Visitors aged 18 or over may apply for and hold their own reader’s ticket.
  • Visitors aged 16 or 17 are welcome to carry out research in the Reading Room, but must be accompanied at all times by an adult who holds a valid reader’s ticket.
  • We cannot grant access to anyone under 18 who is not accompanied by an adult ticket‑holder.

 

Reader’s Tickets

A reader’s ticket is required to consult archival material.

Reader’s tickets are:

  • Free of charge
  • Valid for 3 years
  • Issued in person at the National Archives

Please bring your reader’s ticket with you each time you visit, as we cannot provide access to the Reading Room without it.

 

Applying for or renewing a Reader’s Ticket

You can apply for or renew a reader’s ticket using the form below. Tickets must be collected in person.

To collect your reader’s ticket, you must:

  • be aged 18 or over
  • photo identification
  • proof of your address within the last 6 months

Once issued, your ticket will allow you to order archives in advance and consult them in the Reading Room.

In advance of your visit, please review:

 

Reader’s ticket application form

How we use your data.

The National Archives is committed to protecting your personal data. We retain your information only as long as necessary for its intended purpose. Once no longer needed, it will be securely destroyed in accordance with the Department of Culture, Communications, Sport's policy.

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Opening hours

  • Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm
  • Sat – Sun Closed