Adding DoD Root Certificates on Mac OS X

In order to access most of the Department of Defense (DoD) certificates, users can add the 'SystemCACertificates' keychain using the File > Add Keychain option in Keychain Access. To do this, navigate through the folders to Macintosh HD > System > Library > Keychains.

Smartcard Services will typically work for most Common Access Cards (CACs) and readers; however, if you do not see your CAC keychain in Keychain Access after installing the Smartcard Services package and inserting your CAC into the card reader, it is recommended to use Centrify Express, a free middleware alternative.

In addition to installing middleware, users need to download and import the DoD Root and Intermediate Certificates into their Keychain Access. The instructions on the Information Assurance Support Environment (IASE) website will direct users to Smartcard Services (middleware) downloads from Mac OS Forge.

It is important to note that middleware is required in order to use your CAC on OS X. Users should refer to the instructions and downloads available from the web pages under Getting Started for End Users (Mac) on DISA's IASE website.

Furthermore, whenever upgrading the operating system (OS), users will need to re-enable their CAC (i.e., public key enable) the system again in order to maintain access to DoD certificates.

Dod root certificates mac os x