Any woman is eligible for membership who is not less than eighteen years of age and can prove lineal, blood line descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence. Examples of service include signers of the Declaration of Independence, military service, civil service, or patriotic service. Documentation must be provided for each statement of birth, marriage, and death.

Admission to membership in the NSDAR is either by invitation through a chapter in your state organization or Unit Overseas. No chapter may discriminate against an applicant on the basis of race or creed.