Identification (IDs)

I need assistance obtaining identification.

License, permit, or non-driver ID at the DMV:

For a license, permit, or non-driver ID, visit this website to find what documents you’ll need to gather. Keep in mind that some DMV transactions require a trip to your local office to present the required documents or to have a new photo taken, while others can be completed by mail or online. Keep in mind if you receive public benefits, it is likely you are eligible to apply for a free ID.

To make an online appointment, you can click here. To make an in-person appointment, you can click here.

Birth Certificates:

The Health Department issues birth certificates for all people who are born in New York City. You can order a certificate online, by mail or in person. They recommend ordering online through VitalChek, which is the fastest way to receive your certificate.

You may apply for a New York City birth certificate if:

  • You were born in New York City

  • You are listed on the birth certificate (as parent or registrant/child)

  • You are 18 or older

Each certificate costs $15 and may have an additional processing fee. For more information on fees, see Birth and Death Records: Fees.

If you were born outside of New York City, including elsewhere in New York State, the CDC has information on how you can order a certificate.

There are two types of birth certificates:

  • Short Form: The short form is the most commonly requested certificate. It can be used for most domestic purposes. This form includes your child's first and last name, place of birth, date of birth, sex at birth and mother and father's first and last names.

  • Long Form: The long form includes additional information and is generally used for international purposes, such as dual citizenship, international adoption, international marriage, time of birth and apostille certificates.

The following application is required for all orders of both short and long forms:

If you are unable to schedule an appointment and have an emergency request related to travel, health care coverage, government services, military, housing or employment, email nycdohvr@health.nyc.gov or call 311.

Social Security Cards:

To apply for a social security card, you will need to visit their website and follow instructions for applying for or replacing your card. If you need support, you can call their help center at 800-772-1213. It is available in most U.S. time zones Monday- Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. in English and other languages.

IDNYC:

IDNYC Enrollment Centers accept walk-ins, but appointments are highly recommended. For more information and to schedule an appointment visit this link: Enrollment Centers - IDNYC

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card:

For Medicaid-only clients, you can request a replacement for a lost, stolen or defective benefit card at Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card for SNAP and Cash Assistance or call 311 for assistance. It can take 7-10 business days to receive your replacement card, and it will only be mailed to the address on record. For cash assistance or SNAP recipients, you can either replace your card online at https://www.connectebt.com/ or you can visit the Over-The-Counter site located at 227 Schermerhorn Street in Brooklyn (A/C/G Train to Hoyt-Schermerhorn Street). Hours of operation are from 8:30am to 7:15pm Monday through Friday. A valid photo ID is needed to receive a same-day replacement at an OTC site.

Do you have other questions about identification (IDs) not answered here? If so, call the CJA Helpline (646-213-2683, press 4) to talk to an Outreach Member and see if you can get the answer to your question.