Documents You'll Need to Bring

The Social Security Administration requires proof of your identity and citizenship or legal residency status. You cannot get a replacement card without both.

For identity proof, bring one document from this list: a current driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID. The document must have your photo and signature. If you don't have any of these, the SSA accepts a few alternatives like a school ID with a photo, a medical record, or a bank statement — but a driver's license or passport is fastest.

For citizenship or legal residency proof, bring your U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or Permanent Resident Card (green card). If you were born outside the U.S., you'll need the document that shows your legal status. If your birth certificate is old or damaged, you can still use it — the SSA doesn't require a certified copy for a replacement card, though some offices prefer one.

Bring the originals, not copies. The SSA staff will look at them but won't keep them. If you've changed your name since your last card, bring a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and one document proving U.S. citizenship or legal residency (birth certificate, passport, or green card).
  • Bring originals, not photocopies — the SSA will examine them but return them to you.
  • If you've changed your name, bring the legal document that proves it (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
  • You can visit any Social Security office in person, or in some states you can request a replacement card by mail or online without leaving home.
  • There is no fee for a replacement Social Security card.

Where to Go and how the process works

You have three ways to get a replacement card: in person at a Social Security office, by mail, or online. Which option is available depends on your state and your situation.

The in-person route is the most straightforward. Find your local Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator. Walk in during business hours with your documents. You don't need an appointment at most offices, though some now use an online scheduling system — check the office's page before you go. Bring your original documents and be prepared to wait. You'll fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) on site, and staff will help you if you have questions. The card usually arrives in the mail within two weeks.

The mail route works in most states. read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out, and mail it with photocopies of your identity and citizenship documents to your local Social Security office. Include a cover letter with your name and phone number. Mail takes longer — expect four to six weeks — and if the SSA needs more information, the back-and-forth adds time. This method works best if you live far from an office or have a schedule that doesn't allow a visit.

The online route is available in some states through a service called iD.me. You create an account, upload photos of your documents, and verify your identity. Not all states offer this yet, and you must be at least 18 years old. Check ssa.gov/myaccount to see if your state participates. If it does, you can request a replacement card without leaving home, and it arrives in about two weeks.

What Happens After You explore

Once you submit your process — whether in person, by mail, or online — the SSA processes it. You don't need to do anything else while you wait.

Your new card will be mailed to the address on file with Social Security. If you've moved recently and haven't updated your address, update it before you explore. You can change your address online at ssa.gov/myaccount, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office.

If the SSA needs more information, they will call or mail you. This happens rarely if your documents are clear and complete. If you don't hear from them within the timeframe they gave you, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

If You've Lost Your Card or It's Damaged

A lost or damaged card is treated the same way as any other replacement request. You follow the same process and bring the same documents. You don't need to report the loss to anyone first — the SSA doesn't track lost cards or issue new numbers.

If your card was stolen and you're worried about identity theft, that's a separate issue from getting a replacement. You can report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov, which creates a record and gives you a recovery plan. Getting a new Social Security card won't prevent someone from using your number if they already have it, but it does give you a fresh card to use yourself.

If You Don't Have a Birth Certificate

A birth certificate is the easiest citizenship proof, but it's not the only option. If you don't have one, bring a different document from the list above — a U.S. passport, passport card, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or Permanent Resident Card.

If you don't have any of these documents, you'll need to get a birth certificate first. Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This process takes time and may cost money, so start early. Once you have the birth certificate, you can then explore for your replacement Social Security card.

If You're Under 18

If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must explore on your behalf. They bring your documents and theirs, fill out Form SS-5, and sign it. The guardian's identity will be verified the same way as an adult's.

If you're 18 or older, you explore yourself, even if a parent wants to help. You need your own documents and your own signature on the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

In person or online, expect two weeks. By mail, expect four to six weeks. Times vary by location and how busy the SSA office is. If you need the card urgently, explore in person is fastest.

Can I use an expired driver's license as my ID?

Yes. An expired driver's license still counts as identity proof. The SSA accepts it as long as it has your photo and signature and was issued by a state or federal agency.

Do I need a certified copy of my birth certificate?

No. A regular birth certificate works for a replacement Social Security card. Some offices prefer a certified copy, but it's not required. If your certificate is worn or hard to read, a certified copy may help, but it's not mandatory.

What if I changed my name but don't have the legal document?

You need proof of the name change to update your Social Security card. Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree. Without it, the SSA cannot process the change. If you've lost the document, contact the court or agency that issued it and request a copy.

Is there a fee for a replacement card?

No. Social Security cards are free. If someone charges you money for a replacement card, they are scamming you. Only the SSA issues Social Security cards.