Getting your ID and documents back in Iowa
The short answer
County recorders can issue certified copies of Iowa births from 1986 on. If you are registered to vote and have no Iowa license or non driver ID, the state mails you a Voter ID card at no cost.
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Birth certificate
County recorders can issue certified copies of births from 1986 to now. For earlier births, order from the county where the birth happened. You can also order in person at the State Vital Records Office, online through VitalChek, or by mail (4 to 6 weeks). Order early if you need it for REAL ID.
Official page: hhs.iowa.gov/family-community/vital-records/how-request-certified-record
Iowa Voter ID card at no cost
The Iowa Secretary of State says any registered voter who doesn't have a valid Iowa driver's license or non operator ID gets a Voter ID card in the mail at no cost, automatically. You can also ask your county auditor for one. Elections office: 515 281 0145.
Official page: sos.iowa.gov/voters/voter-id-faq
Social Security card
You may be able to request a replacement Social Security card online at ssa.gov. Replacing a card costs nothing.
Official page: ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
More help in Iowa
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.