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 Texas has some fee breaks for homeless youth and people fleeing violence.
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.
- Texas 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 Texas 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 staying here. Can you give me a notarized letter or DL 5 form to prove my address for my ID?"
"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 Texas ID card?
You get a Texas ID card at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office. Make an appointment first.
DPS says you need to show proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, Texas residency, identity, and your Social Security number.
- Cost. As of October 16, 2026, DPS lists a new ID card at $16 if you're 59 or younger, and $6 if you're 60 or older. The ID lasts up to six years.
- DPS says your Social Security number is checked electronically. If it can't be confirmed, the ID can't be issued.
- DPS has an online REAL ID Document Check tool that makes a checklist of what to bring.
- We did not find a DPS fee waiver for adults who are homeless. Ask a shelter or case manager if they help with the fee.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees and https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
How do I prove my address if I'm homeless?
DPS uses a form called the DL 5, a residency affidavit, when you can't show two regular proof of residency papers.
- As of October 16, 2026, the DL 5 says a representative of a homeless shelter, transitional service provider, nonprofit or government agency can give a notarized letter or notarized DL 5. It confirms the address where you live or get services and that they get mail for you.
- The DL 5 says that representative does not have to come with you.
- The DL 5 also says some people don't need to meet this rule, including homeless youth, youth under 21 in DFPS paid foster care, and people in the Attorney General's Address Confidentiality Program.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/forms/dl-5.pdf
What to bring to the DPS office
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 for a notarized letter or DL 5 that says the shelter gets mail for you, then make an appointment at a DPS driver license office.
As of October 16, 2026, the DL 5 says a homeless shelter representative can provide that notarized letter in place of two residency documents.
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.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/forms/dl-5.pdf
How do I get my Texas birth certificate?
If you were born in Texas, you can order a certified copy from Texas Vital Statistics at the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), or from a local registrar or county clerk.
- No cost for homeless and foster youth. As of October 16, 2026, DSHS says a certified copy is issued without a fee or parent consent to a homeless child or youth, and to youth 18 to 20 in DFPS paid foster care. Include proof, like an attestation of youth homeless status form or a Foster Care Verification form.
- No cost for survivors. DSHS says that under SB 798, a certified copy is issued without a fee to victims of family or dating violence and their children who are fleeing a dangerous living situation, with an attestation form.
- Everyone else pays a fee. Check with DSHS or your county clerk.
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.dshs.texas.gov/vital-statistics/check-order-status/requirements-mail-person-orders
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/
How much is a Texas ID card?
As of October 16, 2026, DPS lists $16 for a new ID if you're 59 or younger, and $6 if you're 60 or older.
Can a shelter help me prove my address?
Yes. The DL 5 says a homeless shelter representative can give a notarized letter or DL 5 in place of two residency documents.
Is my birth certificate at no cost if I'm homeless?
DSHS says it is at no cost for homeless youth, and for survivors of family or dating violence who are fleeing, with an attestation form.
Do I need an appointment for an ID?
DPS says to make an appointment at a driver license office.
Does it cost money to replace my Social Security card?
No. Replacing a Social Security card is at no cost.
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.
Texas
Here are some places to start.
Texas Vital Statistics: Birth Certificates
What it offers Order a copy of a Texas birth certificate. If you are homeless or a minor in foster care, order by mail or in person, not online.
How to reach Call 888.963.7111, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Source https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vital-statistics/frequently-asked-questions/birth-record-faqs
Last checked October 16, 2026
Texas DPS ID Card
What it offers A Texas ID card if you don't drive. A new ID costs $16 for people 59 and younger and $6 for people 60 and older. Some disabled Veterans may qualify for a fee exemption.
How to reach Learn what to bring at https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card. Fees: https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees
Source https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees
Last checked October 16, 2026
Texas DPS identification card
What it offers A Texas ID card, valid up to six years. As of October 16, 2026, a new card is $16 if you're 59 or younger, or $6 if you're 60 or older.
How to reach Make an appointment at a driver license office. Learn more at https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
Source https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees
Last checked October 16, 2026
DPS residency affidavit (DL 5)
What it offers A way to prove Texas residency with a notarized letter or DL 5 from a homeless shelter, service provider or agency that gets mail for you.
How to reach Ask your shelter or case manager. Form at https://www.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/forms/dl-5.pdf
Source https://www.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/forms/dl-5.pdf
Last checked October 16, 2026
Texas Vital Statistics fee waivers (DSHS)
What it offers No cost certified birth records for homeless youth, youth 18 to 20 in DFPS paid foster care, and survivors of family or dating violence who are fleeing, with the right form.
How to reach Apply with DSHS Vital Statistics or your local registrar or county clerk. Learn more at https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vital-statistics/check-order-status/requirements-mail-person-orders
Source https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vital-statistics/check-order-status/requirements-mail-person-orders
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Harris County (Houston)
Here are some places to start.
Coalition for the Homeless: The Way Home
What it offers Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, with a no wrong door approach. The Coalition does not offer onsite services. If you need help now, call 211.
How to reach Dial 211. Find help at https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Source https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Dallas County
Here are some places to start.
Housing Forward Crisis Helpline (Dallas)
What it offers Connects people to shelter, outreach teams, housing support and community resources. For non emergency city help, call 311.
How to reach Call 888.411.6802.
Source https://dallascityhall.com/departments/housing-and-homelessness/Pages/get-support.aspx
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Tarrant County (Fort Worth)
Here are some places to start.
Partnership Home: Coordinated Entry (Tarrant County)
What it offers Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness in Fort Worth and Tarrant County.
How to reach Learn how to get help at https://partnershiphome.org/systemresponse/coordinated-entry/ or dial 211.
Source https://partnershiphome.org/systemresponse/coordinated-entry/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Bexar County (San Antonio)
Here are some places to start.
Haven for Hope
What it offers A campus in San Antonio with shelter and many services for people experiencing homelessness. 1 Haven for Hope Way.
How to reach Main office: 210.220.2100.
Source https://www.havenforhope.org/get-help/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Close to Home (San Antonio)
What it offers San Antonio's guide to homeless services and resources, including help for youth and families.
How to reach Find resources at https://closetohomesa.org/find-resources/
Source https://closetohomesa.org/find-resources/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Travis County (Austin)
Here are some places to start.
ECHO: Get Help (Austin and Travis County)
What it offers A good first step toward stable housing is a Coordinated Assessment, the community's central housing application. ECHO does not run housing itself but connects you to it.
How to reach Learn how to get assessed at https://www.austinecho.org/get-help/
Source https://www.austinecho.org/get-help/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Collin County
Here are some places to start.
The Samaritan Inn
What it offers Shelter, case management and life skills programs for single adults and families experiencing homelessness in Collin County. Interviews are first come, first served, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, at 1514 N. McDonald Street, McKinney.
How to reach Call 972.542.5302.
Source https://saminn.org/become-a-resident/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Denton County
Here are some places to start.
United Way of Denton County: Find Help
What it offers Resource navigation for people facing homelessness or a housing crisis in Denton County. 1314 Teasley Lane, Denton. Monday to Thursday, 9:30 am to noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
How to reach Call 940.566.5851. Mental Health Navigators: call or text LINK to 940.349.3000.
Source https://www.unitedwaydenton.org/find-help
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Hidalgo County
Here are some places to start.
Hidalgo County Urban County Program: Coordinated Entry
What it offers Runs the Emergency Solutions Grant and the Coordinated Entry process in Hidalgo County.
How to reach Call 956.787.8127 or 866.613.5277.
Source https://www.hidalgocounty.us/2306/Emergency-Solutions-Grant-ESG
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
El Paso County
Here are some places to start.
City of El Paso Community and Homeless Assistance
What it offers Navigators help with resources, case management, basic needs referrals and housing stabilization. Street outreach social workers are available 24/7.
How to reach Navigator line: 915.400.7401. Office: 915.212.0138.
Source https://www.elpasotexas.gov/community-and-human-development/community-and-homeless-assistance/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Fort Bend County
Here are some places to start.
Coalition for the Homeless: The Way Home
What it offers Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, with a no wrong door approach. The Coalition does not offer onsite services. If you need help now, call 211.
How to reach Dial 211. Find help at https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Source https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
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. Every source was checked on October 16, 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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