Need an American Samoa ID Card? Buy It Here Now!

So, I wanted to get an American Samoa ID card, but let me tell you, it wasn’t as straightforward as I thought it would be. I figured, you know, it’s just an ID, how hard could it be? Turns out, there’s a bit more to it.

First off, I had to get my hands on this thing called a “Certificate of Identity.” It is not just for anyone, this is specifically for U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals who need to travel from American Samoa. It’s like an emergency temporary travel document.

I started by digging around for information. I found out that the Registrar of Vital Statistics is the one who prepares the application forms. So I went down to their office, feeling all official and ready to go. I filled out the form, which, thankfully, wasn’t too complicated. Just the usual stuff: name, date of birth, and why I needed the ID.

But here’s a catch, my birth certificate needed to be verified before they could issue the Certificate of Identity. This step took a bit longer than expected. I had to provide some additional documents to prove my identity, and honestly, it felt like a bit of a hassle. But, I get it, they need to make sure everything is legit.

Once the verification was sorted, I learned there’s a fee for issuing this certificate, and it’s 15 bucks. Not too bad, but still, money I wasn’t planning on spending. But hey, what can you do? I paid the fee, feeling a little lighter in the wallet but closer to my goal.

Then there’s this other thing called the “OK Board” authorization, which is needed to enter American Samoa. It is an additional step for those who might not be carrying their usual travel documents. It costs 50 dollars. Thankfully, I didn’t need it for this time. But still noted for the future.

• Getting Started:
  • Figured out I needed a “Certificate of Identity.”
  • Went to the Registrar of Vital Statistics to get the application form.
• Verification Process:
  • Submitted my birth certificate for verification.
  • Provided additional documents to prove my identity.
• Fees and Payments:
  • Paid the $15 fee for the Certificate of Identity.
• Additional Notes:
  • Learned about the “OK Board” authorization for entering American Samoa, which costs $50.

In the end, I finally got my American Samoa ID card. It took a bit of time, some paperwork, and a few dollars, but I did it. I mean, it wasn’t the simplest thing in the world, but now I have a better understanding of the process. Just remember, if you’re planning to get one, be prepared for a bit of a journey, and make sure you have all your documents in order. And maybe keep a few extra bucks handy just in case.