You need proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of age — all three

The Social Security Administration requires three separate documents before they will issue a replacement card. You cannot substitute one for another, and you cannot explore without all three. The documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies do not count, even if notarized.

You will bring these documents in person to your local Social Security office. You cannot mail them in or explore online for a replacement card. The office staff will examine the originals, make copies for the file, and return your documents to you the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (a driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport), and proof of age (a birth certificate or passport) — all three categories are required.
  • Original documents or certified copies are the only acceptable forms; photocopies will be rejected even if notarized.
  • You must explore in person at a Social Security office; there is no online or mail-in replacement process.
  • If you cannot find your original birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born.
  • Bring your current Social Security card if you still have it, though it is not required.

Proof of identity: what the SSA accepts

A valid driver's license or state-issued ID card is the fastest proof of identity. The card must not be expired, and it must show your photograph, your full name, and your date of birth. If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, a U.S. passport or passport card works as well.

If you have none of these, the SSA maintains a longer list of acceptable documents: a military ID, a federal employee ID, a school ID (if it includes your photograph), a work ID, or a tribal ID. The document must be current and show your name and photograph. Expired documents are not accepted.

If you have lost all forms of photo ID, contact your local Social Security office before you visit. Staff can sometimes work with you using alternative documents, but you need to confirm this in advance rather than arriving unprepared.

Proof of citizenship: birth certificate or passport

A certified copy of your birth certificate is the standard proof of citizenship. It must be a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — a photocopy of your birth certificate, even if you have kept it for years, will not be accepted.

If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. Most states allow you to order by mail, phone, or online. The cost varies by state but typically ranges from $10 to $30, and processing takes one to three weeks. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the office's website and ordering instructions.

A U.S. passport or passport card also serves as proof of citizenship and can replace the birth certificate requirement. If you already have a valid passport, you do not need to order a birth certificate separately.

Proof of age: usually your birth certificate

Your birth certificate serves double duty — it counts as both proof of citizenship and proof of age. If you bring a certified birth certificate, you have satisfied two of the three requirements in a single document.

If you are using a passport as your proof of citizenship instead, the passport also counts as proof of age. You do not need a separate document for this category.

The only time you need a third document is if you have neither a birth certificate nor a passport. In that case, acceptable proof of age includes a school record, a hospital record of your birth, a religious record (such as a baptism certificate), or a census record. These documents must be originals or certified copies and must show your name and date of birth.

What to bring to the Social Security office

Gather your documents before you go. Bring the originals, not copies. If you have your current Social Security card, bring it as well — it is not required, but it speeds up the process. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out a form on site.

The Social Security Administration uses form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to process replacements. You can fill this out at home before you arrive, or you can complete it in the office. Downloading and printing it in advance saves time, but it is optional. You can find form SS-5 on the SSA website.

Arrive during office hours. Most Social Security offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some have extended hours on certain days. Call ahead or check the office locator on the SSA website to confirm hours and whether you need to take a number or make an appointment.

If you were born outside the United States

If you were born outside the U.S. but are a U.S. citizen, you will need proof of citizenship in addition to your birth certificate. A U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship all count as proof of citizenship.

If you have a Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship, bring the original or a certified copy. These documents are issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and are the official proof that you became a citizen through naturalization. If you do not have one of these and were naturalized, you can request a copy from USCIS.

If you are a permanent resident (green card holder) but not yet a citizen, you cannot get a Social Security card through the replacement process. You would need to contact the SSA directly to discuss your situation.

What happens after you submit your documents

The Social Security office will examine your documents, make copies for their file, and return the originals to you when ready. You will fill out form SS-5 and sign it in front of the staff member. There is no fee to replace your card.

Your new card will be mailed to the address you provide. Standard delivery takes one to two weeks. You do not need to do anything else — the SSA handles the rest. Once your card arrives, destroy your old card by cutting it in half and throwing it away.

If you need your card urgently, ask the office staff whether they can issue a temporary document or expedite the mailing. Some offices can provide a letter stating that you have applied for a replacement, which some employers or banks will accept as temporary proof while you wait for the card itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of an original?

No. The SSA requires an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy, even if you have kept it for years, will be rejected. If you do not have the original, order a certified copy from the state or county where you were born.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring both your birth certificate and a document showing your legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will use your current legal name on your new card.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

This varies by office. Some Social Security offices accept walk-ins during certain hours, while others require appointments. Call your local office or check the office locator on the SSA website to find out the policy at your location.

How long does it take to get my replacement card after I explore?

Standard delivery takes one to two weeks from the date you explore. The SSA mails cards to the address you provide on your process. Ask the office staff if they can expedite delivery or provide a temporary letter if you need proof of your process sooner.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot order a new one right away?

You can use a U.S. passport or passport card instead, which counts as both proof of citizenship and proof of age. If you do not have a passport, contact your local Social Security office to discuss other options before you visit.