Before You Apply: What to Have Ready

ACP applications go through certified Application Assistants — trained advocates at domestic violence organizations, sexual assault centers, and legal aid offices. Before your appointment, prepare the following to make the process as smooth as possible.

Documents to gather (bring what you have — none are required in most states):

  • Any protective or restraining order (Emergency Protective Order, Temporary Restraining Order, Permanent Restraining Order)
  • Police report or incident report number
  • Medical records related to violence or injury
  • Letter from a shelter, counselor, or advocate confirming your situation
  • A valid ID or proof of current state residency
  • Your current home address (this goes in the program's confidential records — it is not published)
  • Contact information for your Application Assistant or advocate

If you have none of the above documentation, you can still apply. Your signed sworn statement about fearing for your safety is the primary requirement in most states.

Step 1: Find a Certified Application Assistant

Every state ACP requires applications to go through a certified Application Assistant. You cannot apply directly through the state website. This requirement exists to ensure accurate applications and to provide a layer of verification and support.

To find an Application Assistant:

  • Call your state ACP program directly (see your state guide for the number)
  • Contact your local domestic violence shelter or hotline — most participate in ACP
  • Contact your local sexual assault center or rape crisis center
  • Contact legal aid organizations in your county
  • Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 — they can direct you to local resources

If you live in a rural area or cannot travel, ask about remote assistance — many programs offer phone or video consultations for applicants who cannot visit in person.

Step 2: The Application Appointment

Your Application Assistant will guide you through completing the application form. The appointment typically takes 30–60 minutes. During the appointment:

  1. Review and complete the application form

    The form asks for your qualifying situation, your current real home address (for forwarding — kept confidential), and your contact information. Your advocate helps ensure everything is filled out correctly.

  2. Sign the sworn certification

    You certify under penalty of perjury that you are a victim of a qualifying crime, that you live in the state, and that you fear for your safety if your address were disclosed. This is the core legal basis for your enrollment.

  3. Provide supporting documentation (if any)

    If you have a protective order or police report, attach copies to the application. If you have none, your signed certification is sufficient.

  4. Advocate submits the application

    Your Application Assistant submits the completed package to the state program. You do not mail it yourself. Keep a copy of your application for your records.

Step 3: After Approval — Updating Your Records

When your authorization card arrives (processing times vary by state — see your state guide), immediately begin updating your government records:

  • DMV / Motor Vehicles — bring your authorization card to update your driver's license and vehicle registration. In most states there is no fee for this update for ACP participants.
  • Voter registration — re-register or update your registration using your substitute address. You will vote at your actual local precinct using a confidential cross-reference maintained by elections offices.
  • Courts — if you have any pending family court, civil, or criminal matters, file a notice of address change with each court.
  • State benefit programs — update your address with any state programs you receive benefits from (SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance, etc.).
  • Employer HR — update your address on file with your employer for W-2 and payroll purposes.
  • Banks — update your mailing address. Most banks accept ACP substitute addresses; some may want to see your authorization card.
Do this in order. Update DMV first — your updated driver's license can then serve as identification when updating other records. Having an ID that matches your substitute address smooths every subsequent update.

FAQs

From finding an Application Assistant to receiving your authorization card: typically 3–6 weeks for most states. This includes finding an assistant (0–2 weeks), scheduling the appointment, completing the paperwork, and the state's processing time (1–4 weeks depending on state). Washington State is typically fastest (1–2 weeks total). Texas takes longer (4–6 weeks). See your state's guide for current processing times.

Call your state ACP program directly and explain that you cannot locate a nearby Application Assistant. Most states maintain a statewide list and can connect you with someone who offers phone or video assistance. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can also help identify remote assistance options.

Informational only. Application requirements vary by state. Verify current procedures with your state ACP program. Not legal advice.