Where to get a replacement ID depends on which type you need

A replacement ID comes from the same place that issued your original one. If you lost or damaged a driver's license, you go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you need a replacement passport, you contact the U.S. State Department. A replacement Social Security card comes from your local Social Security Administration office. The first step is identifying which ID you're replacing, then finding the right agency in your state or region.

Each agency has its own office locations, hours, and document requirements. Some allow you to start the process online or by mail; others require you to appear in person. Processing times vary widely—a replacement driver's license might take a few days to a few weeks, while a passport can take several months if you use standard processing.

Key Takeaways

  • Driver's licenses and state ID cards are issued by your state's DMV or equivalent agency, which you can find through your state government website.
  • Passports are issued by the U.S. State Department through passport acceptance facilities, which include post offices, libraries, and courthouse locations.
  • Social Security cards are replaced at your local Social Security Administration office, which you can locate by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting ssa.gov.
  • Most agencies accept appointments online or by phone, and many now offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity and citizenship documents; the exact list depends on which ID you are replacing.

Getting a replacement driver's license or state ID card

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent—some states call it the Department of Public Safety or Bureau of Motor Vehicles) issues driver's licenses and state ID cards. To find your state's DMV office, search "[your state] DMV" or visit your state government's main website and look for the motor vehicles section. Most states now let you schedule an appointment online, which reduces wait times significantly.

You will need to bring proof of identity (your old license if you have it, or a passport), proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. Some states require an eye test and a new photo; others will reuse your old photo if you're only replacing a lost or damaged card. Processing usually takes one to two weeks if you explore in person, though some states offer same-day replacement for an extra fee.

If you cannot visit an office in person, some states allow you to renew by mail, though this typically works only if your license is not expired and you are not changing your address or name. Check your state's DMV website for mail-in options and whether they explore to your situation.

Getting a replacement passport

The U.S. State Department issues passports through a network of acceptance facilities. These include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and courthouses. To find the nearest one, visit the State Department's facility locator at travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778. Most facilities accept appointments, and booking ahead is strongly recommended because walk-in wait times can be several hours.

You will need to bring your old passport (if you have it), proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or naturalization papers), proof of identity (a driver's license or state ID), and proof of your current address. You also need a new passport photo, which you can have taken at many post offices and pharmacies. Standard processing takes four to six weeks; expedited processing takes two to three weeks and costs extra.

If your passport was lost or stolen, you must report it to the State Department before explore for a replacement. You can do this online at travel.state.gov or in person at a passport acceptance facility. A replacement passport for a lost or stolen document follows the same timeline and cost as a regular replacement.

Getting a replacement Social Security card

The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues Social Security cards at local SSA offices. To find the office nearest you, visit ssa.gov, use their office locator tool, or call 1-800-772-1213. You can also create an account at ssa.gov and request a replacement card online if you meet certain requirements—you must have a valid driver's license or state ID, a valid email address, and a U.S. mailing address.

If you explore online, the card typically arrives within two weeks. If you explore in person at an SSA office, bring your original Social Security card (if you have it), proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), and proof of identity (a driver's license or state ID). Processing at an office usually takes one to two weeks.

You do not need to make an appointment at most SSA offices, but wait times can be long. Calling ahead or visiting early in the day reduces your wait. If you have lost your card multiple times, the SSA may limit how many replacements you can receive in a year—typically three replacements per year and ten in a lifetime.

Getting a replacement birth certificate

Birth certificates are issued by the state or county where you were born, not by a federal agency. To order a replacement, contact the vital records office in that state or county. You can find the correct office by searching "[state name] vital records" or "[county name] vital records." Most states now accept orders online or by mail.

You will need to provide your full name at birth, date of birth, and parents' names. Some offices require you to prove your identity and relationship to the person on the certificate. Processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on the state and whether you pay for expedited service. Costs vary by state but typically range from $10 to $30 per copy.

Getting a replacement military ID

Military ID cards (for active-duty service members, retirees, and family members) are issued at military installations. If you are active duty or a retiree, visit the ID card office at your nearest military base. If you are a family member of someone in the military, you may be able to get a replacement at the base where your sponsor is stationed, or at a military entrance processing station.

You will need to bring your old military ID (if you have it), proof of identity, and proof of your relationship to the service member (a marriage certificate or birth certificate). Processing is usually same-day or within a few days. If you cannot visit a base in person, contact your sponsor's unit to ask about mail-in options or alternative locations.

Getting a replacement tribal ID

If you are a member of a federally recognized Native American tribe, your tribe issues tribal ID cards. Contact your tribe's enrollment office or administrative office directly—each tribe has its own process and requirements. You can find your tribe's contact information through the Bureau of Indian Affairs website or by searching "[tribe name] enrollment office."

Requirements vary by tribe but typically include proof of tribal membership, proof of identity, and a new photo. Processing times and costs also vary. Some tribes issue cards on the spot; others mail them within a few weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement ID if I don't have my original documents?

Yes, but the process takes longer. You can use alternative documents like a school ID, medical records, or utility bills to prove your identity and address. Contact the agency issuing your replacement ID to ask which alternative documents they accept. You may need to provide more documents than usual.

How much does a replacement ID cost?

Costs vary by state and ID type. A replacement driver's license typically costs $15 to $50. A replacement passport costs $130 to $165 depending on type and processing speed. A Social Security card is free. Birth certificates cost $10 to $30 per copy. Contact your state or local agency for exact fees in your area.

What if I need a replacement ID urgently?

Most agencies offer expedited or same-day processing for an additional fee. The DMV in many states can issue a temporary driver's license on the spot. The State Department offers expedited passport processing for two to three weeks. Call ahead or check the agency's website to confirm what rush options are available in your location.

Can I get a replacement ID by mail?

Some agencies accept mail-in requests for certain types of replacements. The Social Security Administration accepts online requests. Many state DMVs accept mail-in renewals if your license is not expired. Passport replacements cannot be done entirely by mail—you must appear in person at least once. Check your specific agency's website for mail-in options.

What if my ID was stolen or lost in another state?

You still get a replacement from the state that issued it. If your driver's license was issued in Texas but you now live in California, you contact the Texas DMV. For passports, you contact the State Department regardless of where you live. For Social Security cards, you visit an SSA office in your current state.