Personal records

School and employment records

Every time you write a resume or fill out a job application, you'll need the places and dates for jobs you have held and schools you have attended. Make a list of these important facts to keep. If you're not sure about names or locations, look them up in a recent phone book or the Internet and record them.

You will need the company or employer name, city and state, job title, brief description of duties and dates employed. Sometimes the reason for leaving is asked on job applications, so note that in your records too. For schools or training programs, note school name, city and state, classes or program studied, dates of attendance and graduation, diploma or completion level, as appropriate.

Driver's license

A driver's license is the most widely-used picture identification. It can be helpful to have one when you are searching for a job.

To find out how to renew or obtain a driver's license, select your state at State Resources and find your state's motor vehicle department.

Birth certificate and other vital documents

You may need a copy of your birth certificate to get a driver's license or to prove that you are eligible to work in the United States. To request yours, call or write to the vital records office in the state you were born.

Find your state's office by selecting your state at State Resources.

Criminal record, or RAP Sheet

To make sure that employers see an accurate version of your criminal record, request a copy for yourself. If needed, review your record with a legal professional or someone from the probation or parole office. Make sure you understand the information on your record.

To learn how to get a copy of your record, select your state at State Resources and look under Criminal Record.