Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register my service dog?

No. Under the ADA, there is no official federal registry, certification, or ID card requirement for service animals. Registration is completely voluntary.

Can businesses require documentation?

No. Staff cannot require documentation, registration, certification, or proof of training. They may ask only the two ADA-permitted questions.

What are the two questions staff can ask?

(1) Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? (2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Does my service dog need a vest or ID tag?

No. Vests, tags, ID cards, and certificates are optional. Some handlers use them to signal that a dog is working, but they are not required by law.

Can my emotional support animal go everywhere with me?

Generally, no. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals under the ADA and are not granted the same public access rights. They may have protections in housing under the Fair Housing Act.

Can a service animal be any breed?

Yes. The ADA does not restrict the breed of a service dog. A covered entity may not exclude a service animal based on breed or assumptions about that breed.

What if someone asks me to leave because of my service dog?

If your dog is under control and does not pose a direct threat or fundamentally alter the services provided, you have the right to remain. You can direct staff to ADA.gov for more information.