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 can make everything feel stuck, from getting a job to picking up a check to getting into some shelters. I know how frustrating that is. The good news is you can get your papers back, one at a time, and California has a fee break for people who are homeless. This guide also covers REAL ID, getting an ID before you leave prison, and keeping your address private if you're in danger.
Here is the easy first step: figure out what you still have. Any old ID, a Social Security card, a birth certificate, mail with your name, or a benefits letter all help. Then use this guide to fill in the gaps.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a document, money or a spot in any program.
- Fees and rules change. Check with the office before you go when you can.
- In danger right now? Call 911. Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.
Most people get their papers back in this order, because each one helps you get the next:
- Birth certificate. It proves who you are and where you were born.
- Social Security card. It proves your Social Security number.
- California ID card or driver license. It's your photo ID for most everything else.
If you have any one of these, start with what's missing. Many homeless service programs, day centers and case managers help with ID, sometimes including fees. Ask 211 or your local Coordinated Entry line in the county list.
Getting your ID back, step by step
- Gather anything with your name on it, like old IDs, mail, a benefits letter, or medical or school records.
- Ask a case manager, shelter or 211 if they help with ID or fees.
- Order your birth certificate if you don't have it.
- Replace your Social Security card if you need it.
- Go to a driver license office with your documents for your California ID card.
- Keep copies, or photos on your phone, of everything once you get it back.
What to say when you call 211 or a shelter
"Hi. I lost my ID and I need help getting it back."
"I'm in [your city or county]. Do you know anyone who helps with ID or the fees?"
"I'm homeless right now. Can you give me a letter that says so for the ID fee waiver?"
"What should I bring?"
Photos save the day
Once you get your documents back, take clear photos of each one and email them to yourself. If they ever go missing again, you'll have the numbers and details right there. Easy peasy!
How do I get a California ID card?
You get a California ID card at a DMV office. The DMV says it may issue an ID card to a person of any age.
You can schedule an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov.
- The fee break. The DMV offers no fee ID cards for people who are unhoused and reduced fee ID cards for people with low incomes.
- How it works. The DMV says a government agency or qualifying nonprofit must check and document your housing status and give you a form called the DL 933. You bring that form to the DMV.
- Where to ask. The DMV says people seeking a reduced fee or no fee ID voucher should contact their local county public assistance agency. Shelters and homeless programs may also help.
Ask the office if any other fees apply.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/reduced-no-fee-id-card-program-information-for-organizations/
What to bring to the DMV
Say you're staying at a shelter
Say you're staying at a shelter and you lost your wallet. You still have your birth certificate. You could ask your case manager if the shelter can give you a DL 933 form, then make an appointment at the DMV.
The DMV says people who are unhoused can get a no fee ID card with that form.
This is an example to show how it can work. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/reduced-no-fee-id-card-program-information-for-organizations/
How do I get my California birth certificate?
If you were born in California, you can order your birth certificate from the county recorder in the county where you were born, or by mail from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Vital Records.
- Cost. CDPH lists a fee of $31 per copy for a mail order. County fees may vary.
- No cost if you're homeless. CDPH says a person who is homeless can get a certified copy of their birth record at no cost. You fill out an affidavit of homeless status, and a homeless services provider, like a shelter, a school homeless liaison or a lawyer, verifies it.
- Where to apply. CDPH says the best way is in person at the county office where you were born. You can also mail an application, the affidavit and a sworn statement to the State Registrar.
- Not sure which county? CDPH says counties can refer you to the State Registrar at 916.552.8116 to check your county of birth.
Born in another state? Contact that state's vital records office. 211 can help you find it.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Assembly-Bill-%28AB%29-1733.aspx
Getting your papers back is a big win, friend. Celebrate each one, because each one opens the next door.
From the Bunklow team
How do I replace my Social Security card?
Replacing your Social Security card is at no cost. The Social Security Administration explains how, and many adults can request a replacement online with a my Social Security account.
You can also call or visit a Social Security office.
- Beware of anyone who charges you to replace your card. It's at no cost from Social Security.
- Often, you just need your number, not the card. Ask the place that wants it if your number is enough.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ssa.gov/number-card
Use one safe address
If you don't have a steady address, ask a shelter, day center or trusted friend if you can get mail there. Many programs offer a mailing address for people they serve. Then use that same address on every form.
What if someone used my identity?
If you think someone stole your identity, IdentityTheft.gov from the Federal Trade Commission helps you report it and make a recovery plan. Also tell the agency that issued the document.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.identitytheft.gov/
Do I need a REAL ID?
The DMV says a REAL ID is a driver license or ID card that is also a federally accepted form of identification. REAL ID cards are marked with a golden bear and a star.
You don't need one to get your papers back, but you may want one later.
- Gather your documents. The DMV has a REAL ID document checklist. You need papers that show your date of birth and your true full legal name, plus proof of where you live.
- Apply online first. The DMV says to upload your documents during the online application and save your confirmation code.
- Visit a DMV office. Bring the original documents you uploaded and your confirmation code.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/real-id/
I'm leaving prison. Can I get my ID before I get out?
Often, yes. CDCR, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, says its California Identification Card program, called CAL ID, gives a valid California ID card to eligible people when they are released from prison.
- CDCR says it is open at all CDCR prisons, within 13 months of your release.
- To qualify, CDCR says you need a Social Security number and a past California ID card or driver license from the DMV.
- Ask your counselor at the prison about it, or have a family member email calidprogram@cdcr.ca.gov.
- Don't qualify? Start with your birth certificate and Social Security card, then visit the DMV after you get out.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/rehabilitation/calid/
Can I keep my new address private if I'm in danger?
Yes. Safe at Home is a confidential address program from the California Secretary of State.
It gives you a substitute mailing address to use instead of your home address, to help keep your home address out of the hands of someone who might want to harm you. It works best as part of a safety plan.
- Who it helps. Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking, and others, like victims of child abduction or elder or dependent adult abuse.
- Where it works. State, county and city agencies accept the Safe at Home address. You can also register as a confidential voter.
- How to join. You sign up with help from an Enrolling Agency, like a local domestic violence or sexual assault program.
- Call 877.322.5227, or email SafeAtHome@sos.ca.gov.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.sos.ca.gov/registries/safe-home
Safety first, always
If you're in danger right now, call 911. If you're leaving an unsafe home, a domestic violence program can help you make a safety plan and sign up for Safe at Home. You deserve to feel safe, friend.
Is a California ID card at no cost if I'm homeless?
As of October 16, 2026, the DMV says people who are unhoused can get a no fee ID card with a DL 933 form from a qualified agency or nonprofit.
Is my birth certificate at no cost if I'm homeless?
CDPH has a no fee option with an affidavit signed by a homeless services provider.
How much does a California birth certificate cost?
CDPH lists $31 per copy by mail. County fees may vary.
Does it cost money to replace my Social Security card?
No. Replacing a Social Security card is at no cost.
Where do I ask for the DL 933 form?
The DMV says to contact your local county public assistance agency. Shelters and homeless programs may also help.
Can I get my ID before I leave prison?
CDCR says its CAL ID program gives eligible people a California ID card at release, if they have a Social Security number and had a past California ID or driver license.
How do I keep my address private from an abuser?
Safe at Home from the California Secretary of State gives a substitute mailing address. Call 877.322.5227.
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 16, 2026
IdentityTheft.gov (Federal Trade Commission)
What it offers Report identity theft and get a step by step recovery plan.
How to reach Visit https://www.identitytheft.gov/
Source https://www.identitytheft.gov/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
California
Here are some places to start.
No cost birth certificate if you are homeless
What it offers A no fee birth certificate option for people experiencing homelessness. Apply in person at the county where you were born, or by mail to the State Registrar with the affidavit on this page.
How to reach Read the steps at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Assembly-Bill-(AB)-1733.aspx. To check your county of birth, call the State Registrar at 916.552.8116.
Source https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Assembly-Bill-(AB)-1733.aspx
Last checked October 16, 2026
California DMV ID Card
What it offers A California ID card if you don't drive. You may get a no fee ID card if you are experiencing homelessness, and a reduced fee card if you qualify through a public assistance program. Seniors 62 or older can get a no fee senior ID card.
How to reach Learn what to bring at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/identification-id-cards/
Source https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/identification-id-cards/
Last checked October 16, 2026
DMV no fee and reduced fee ID card
What it offers A no fee California ID card for people who are unhoused, and a reduced fee card for some people with low incomes, with a DL 933 or voucher from a qualified agency.
How to reach Ask your county public assistance agency or shelter. Book a DMV visit at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/
Last checked October 16, 2026
CDPH Vital Records, fee exempt birth certificate
What it offers One no cost certified copy of your California birth record if you are homeless, with an affidavit signed by a homeless services provider.
How to reach Apply at the county recorder where you were born, or by mail to the State Registrar. Call 916.552.8116 to check your county of birth.
Source https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Assembly-Bill-%28AB%29-1733.aspx
Last checked October 16, 2026
Safe at Home (California Secretary of State)
What it offers A confidential substitute mailing address for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking and some other crimes. State, county and city agencies accept it.
How to reach Call 877.322.5227 or email SafeAtHome@sos.ca.gov. Learn more at https://www.sos.ca.gov/registries/safe-home
Source https://www.sos.ca.gov/registries/safe-home
Last checked October 18, 2026
CDCR CAL ID Program
What it offers A California ID card at release for eligible people in state prison, within 13 months of release, with a Social Security number and a past California ID or driver license.
How to reach Ask your prison counselor, or email calidprogram@cdcr.ca.gov
Source https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/rehabilitation/calid/
Last checked October 18, 2026
California DMV REAL ID
What it offers Steps to get a REAL ID, a California license or ID card that is also federally accepted.
How to reach Start with the document checklist at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/real-id/
Source https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/real-id/
Last checked October 18, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Los Angeles County
Here are some places to start.
Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)
What it offers Help finding shelter, housing and homeless services in Los Angeles County.
How to reach Information line: 213.233.4798, Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm. Get help at https://www.lahsa.org/get-help
Source https://www.lahsa.org/get-help
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
San Diego County
Here are some places to start.
Regional Task Force on Homelessness: Get Help
What it offers San Diego County's guide to Coordinated Entry access sites, where people experiencing homelessness can get connected to housing help.
How to reach Find access sites at https://www.rtfhsd.org/get-help/
Source https://www.rtfhsd.org/get-help/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Orange County
Here are some places to start.
Orange County Care Coordination: Get Help
What it offers The county points people to 211 Orange County (211OC) for shelter and local services. For a person experiencing homelessness who is in a mental health crisis, the county lists its Crisis Assessment Team.
How to reach Dial 211. Crisis Assessment Team: 855.625.4657.
Source https://ceo.oc.gov/office-care-coordination/get-help
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Riverside County
Here are some places to start.
Path of Life Ministries
What it offers Shelter in Riverside, listed by the county as open 24 hours. 2840 Hulen Place, Riverside.
How to reach Call 951.683.4101.
Source https://rivcohws.org/get-help-connect-homeless-services
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
San Bernardino County
Here are some places to start.
San Bernardino County Office of Homeless Services
What it offers The county says to call 211 for basic needs and homeless help. The 211 Coordinated Entry System is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How to reach Dial 211.
Source https://sbchp.sbcounty.gov/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Santa Clara County (San Jose)
Here are some places to start.
Santa Clara County Here4You Hotline
What it offers Matches people to emergency shelter and transportation, directs people who need rent help to prevention services, and makes referrals. Serves singles, couples and families. Open every day, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How to reach Call 408.385.2400.
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Alameda County (Oakland)
Here are some places to start.
Alameda County Health: Housing and Homelessness
What it offers The county says to call 211 if you are looking for housing or services. Housing Resource Centers offer housing problem solving and Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness.
How to reach Dial 211.
Source https://homelessness.acgov.org/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Sacramento County
Here are some places to start.
Sacramento Steps Forward: Get Help
What it offers If you are experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Sacramento County, call 211 and press 8 for shelter, housing and other homeless services. Lines are open Monday to Saturday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How to reach Dial 211 and press 8. If 211 won't connect, call 916.498.1000 and press 8.
Source https://www.sacramentostepsforward.org/access-support/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Contra Costa County
Here are some places to start.
Contra Costa Health: Homeless Services
What it offers Call 211 or text HOPE to 20121 for resources, any time. Drop in CARE Centers in Richmond and Walnut Creek offer meals, showers, laundry, mail and case management. For outreach teams, call 211.
How to reach Dial 211 or text HOPE to 20121.
Source https://www.cchealth.org/services-and-programs/homeless-services/get-help
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Fresno County
Here are some places to start.
Multi Agency Access Program (MAP), Fresno
What it offers A single place to start for Fresno County residents. MAP helps people find services for housing, food, health care, benefits and more. The Fresno Madera Continuum of Care also says to start with 211.
How to reach Call 559.512.6777 or dial 211.
Source https://fresnomaderahomeless.org/general-assistance-advocacy
Last checked October 16, 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. Sources were checked on October 16, 2026. New sources were added and every link was checked again on October 18, 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.
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