Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. Losing your ID or papers can make everything harder, from getting a job to finding a place to live. The good news is you can get them back, one at a time. Let's walk through it together.
Here is the easy first step: get your birth certificate first. Most other papers need it. In New Jersey, you can order it from the state's Office of Vital Statistics and Registry online, by mail or in person.
A few things to know
- You choose. Start with the paper you need most.
- Rules and fees can change. Check the official page before you go.
- We can't promise any office will issue a document. We share what each office says and how to reach it.
For most people, the order looks like this:
Getting your papers back, step by step
- Get a certified copy of your birth certificate.
- Request a replacement Social Security card, if you need one. You may not need the card if you know your number.
- Gather proof of where you live in New Jersey.
- Get a New Jersey non driver ID or driver license at the MVC with your 6 Points of ID.
One step at a time
You don't have to do it all in one day. Each paper you get makes the next one easier.
How do I get my New Jersey birth certificate?
If you were born in New Jersey, the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry says you can order a copy:
- Online, through VitalChek's 24/7 service. VitalChek's phone is 877.622.7549.
- By mail, with the state's order form. Forms come in English and Spanish.
- In person, at the walk in center at 140 E. Front Street in Trenton, for same day service. The state says the walk in center stopped taking cash after June 18, 2026.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/health/vital/
If you were born in another state, order from that state's vital records office.
How do I replace my Social Security card?
*
- Depending on your situation, you may be able to apply online. If not, you'll need an appointment at a local office.
- Your card comes by mail. Your local office can't print one for you.
- You may not need a new card at all if you know your number. In most cases, the physical card isn't needed.
- Call Social Security at 800.772.1213.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
How do I get a New Jersey ID?
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) uses a system called 6 Points of ID. For a standard license or non driver ID, the MVC says you must bring:
- Documents that add up to 6 points to prove your age and identity. Paper or hard copy only.
- Your Social Security number, ITIN or an affidavit.
- Proof of your home address in New Jersey.
A REAL ID has separate document rules. All documents must be originals or certified copies. Documents in another language need a translation.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/6pointid.htm
Papers that can count as proof of address, per the MVC
What to say at the MVC
"Hi. I need a non driver ID. Here are my documents for 6 points."
"Can you check whether these add up before I wait in line?"
"If something is missing, what can I bring instead?"
What if I don't have a stable address?
Proof of address can be hard without a home. Ask a shelter, a county social services agency or a case manager whether they can help you get mail or a letter you can use.
Then check it against the MVC's list.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Say your wallet was stolen in Newark
Say your wallet was stolen and you were born in New Jersey. You could order your birth certificate from VitalChek, or go to the walk in center in Trenton. Then you could check if you need a new Social Security card, or just know your number. With your birth certificate and other papers that add up to 6 points, plus proof of address, you could go to the MVC for a non driver ID.
This is an example to show how it can work. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different. Sources: https://www.nj.gov/health/vital/ and https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card and https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/6pointid.htm
How do veterans get their discharge papers?
You can request your DD 214 from the National Archives. See Guide 9.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
Keep copies
Once you have your papers, take photos of them and keep the originals somewhere safe and dry. Easy peasy!
Questions people ask a lot
How do I order a New Jersey birth certificate?
Online through VitalChek, by mail with the state's form, or in person at 140 E. Front Street in Trenton.
What is 6 Points of ID?
The MVC's system for proving your age and identity. Your documents must add up to 6 points.
Do I need proof of address for a NJ ID?
Yes. The MVC also asks for proof of your New Jersey home address.
How do I request a new Social Security card?
Start online if you can. If not, make an appointment at a local Social Security office.
Do I need my Social Security card?
In most cases, the physical card isn't needed if you know your number.
Sources: https://www.nj.gov/health/vital/ and https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/6pointid.htm and https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
You've got this
Getting your papers back is a big step toward everything else. I'm proud of you, friend.
Your county social services agency can often help with next steps. Call ahead for hours.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
Social Security card replacement
What it offers The Social Security Administration explains how to replace a lost Social Security card, often online for adults.
How to reach Start at https://www.ssa.gov/number-card
Source https://www.ssa.gov/number-card
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
New Jersey
Here are some places to start.
NJ Office of Vital Statistics and Registry
What it offers Order a copy of a New Jersey birth certificate or other vital record by mail, phone or online.
How to reach Learn how at https://www.nj.gov/health/vital/order-vital/ or call 877.622.7549.
Source https://www.nj.gov/health/vital/
Last checked October 22, 2026
NJ Motor Vehicle Commission: Non Driver ID
What it offers New Jersey residents age 14 and older can get a photo ID that is not a license to drive. The initial fee is $6. You will need documents that add up to 6 points.
How to reach See the 6 Point ID list at https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/6pointid.htm and details at https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/nondriverid.htm
Source https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/nondriverid.htm
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Bergen County (Hackensack and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Bergen County Board of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, General Assistance, TANF and NJ FamilyCare, and ask about Emergency Assistance.
How to reach Call 201.368.4200. 218 Route 17 North, Rochelle Park. Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Middlesex County (New Brunswick and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Middlesex County Board of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance and NJ FamilyCare, and ask about Emergency Assistance.
How to reach Call 732.745.3500. 181 How Lane, New Brunswick. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:15 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Essex County (Newark)
Here are some places to start.
Essex County Division of Family Assistance and Benefits
What it offers Formerly called Welfare. Helps with SNAP, cash assistance and emergency help with shelter, food and medical needs.
How to reach Call Center 973.395.8000.
Source https://essexcountynj.org/welfare/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Hudson County (Jersey City and Hoboken)
Here are some places to start.
The Hoboken Shelter
What it offers Meals, emergency shelter, case management and permanent supportive housing. The entrance is on 3rd Street, down the wheelchair ramp.
How to reach Call 201.656.5069. 300 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken.
Source https://hobokenshelter.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Monmouth County (Freehold and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Monmouth County Division of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance, NJ FamilyCare and Emergency Assistance. After hours, dial 211.
How to reach Call 732.431.6000. 3000 Kozloski Road, Freehold, and 2405 Route 66, Ocean. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Ocean County (Toms River and Lakewood)
Here are some places to start.
Ocean County Board of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance, NJ FamilyCare and emergency housing help. Offices in Toms River, Lakewood and Manahawkin.
How to reach Call 732.349.1500. After hours, dial 211 or call 877.652.1148. 1005 Hooper Avenue, Toms River.
Source https://co.ocean.nj.us/oc/socialservices/frmContact.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Union County (Elizabeth and Plainfield)
Here are some places to start.
Union County Division of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance, NJ FamilyCare and Emergency Assistance. Offices in Elizabeth and Plainfield.
How to reach Elizabeth: 342 Westminster Avenue, 908.965.2700. Plainfield: 200 West 2nd Street, 908.791.7000.
Source https://ucnj.org/dhs/social-services/ss-contact/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Camden County (Camden and Cherry Hill)
Here are some places to start.
Camden County Board of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance and NJ FamilyCare. Emergency Assistance can help people on GA, TANF or SSI with temporary shelter, rent help and utility deposits.
How to reach Call 856.225.8800. 101 Woodcrest Road, Suite 161, Cherry Hill, near the PATCO Woodcrest Station. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.camdencounty.com/service/social-services/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Passaic County (Paterson and Passaic)
Here are some places to start.
Passaic County Board of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance and NJ FamilyCare, and ask about Emergency Assistance. Offices in Paterson, Haskell and Passaic.
How to reach Call 973.881.0100. 80 Hamilton Street, Paterson. Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Morris County (Morristown and Dover)
Here are some places to start.
Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance and NJ FamilyCare, and ask about Emergency Assistance. Ask about mobile services if getting there is hard.
How to reach Call 973.326.7800. 340 West Hanover Avenue, Morristown. Dover office: 973.682.4990.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Other counties (call your county agency)
Here are some places to start.
Atlantic County Department of Family and Community Development
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Atlantic County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 1333 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City. Call 609.348.3001. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Burlington County Board of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Burlington County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 795 Woodlane Road, Mount Holly. Call 609.261.1000. Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Cape May County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Cape May County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 3801 Route 9 South Unit 4, Rio Grande. Call 609.886.6200. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Cumberland County Board of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Cumberland County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 275 North Delsea Dr., Vineland. Call 856.691.4600. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Gloucester County Division of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Gloucester County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 400 Hollydell, Drive Sewell. Call 856.582.9200. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Hunterdon County Department of Human Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Hunterdon County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 6 Gauntt, Place Flemington. Call 908.788.1300. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Mercer County Board of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Mercer County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 200 Woolverton, Street Trenton. Call 609.989.4320. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:15 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Salem County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Salem County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 147 South Virginia Avenue, Penns Grove. Call 856.299.7200. Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Somerset County Board of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Somerset County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 73 East High, Street Somerville. Call 908.526.8800. Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 6 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Sussex County Division of Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Sussex County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 83 Spring Street Suite 203, Newton. Call 973.383.3600. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Warren County Division of Temporary Assistance and Social Services
What it offers The county agency for SNAP, Work First New Jersey cash help, Emergency Assistance and other benefits in Warren County. During business hours, it's also the first call if you're homeless or about to lose your home.
How to reach 3 Shotwell Dr., Belvidere. Call 908.475.6301. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
My ID checklist
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My documents
Calls I made
Key numbers to keep
Please let me know if you have any questions
If something in this guide is out of date, tell us and we'll fix it. One document at a time, you've got this. Make it a great day, friend!
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Affordable living. Simplified
.jpg){kind=link}
