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 harder, from getting a job to applying for help. The good news is you can get it back, one paper at a time.
Start with your birth certificate and Social Security number. Then visit a Virginia DMV center for a Virginia ID card.
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 bed, money or a spot in any program.
- Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.
Most people start with a birth certificate, then a Social Security card, then a state ID. Each one helps you get the next.
Take it one step at a time.
Your first steps, in order
- Get a copy of your birth certificate.
- Look up or replace your Social Security card.
- Gather proof of where you live.
- Visit a DMV customer service center for a Virginia ID card.
- Keep copies of everything.
How do I get a Virginia ID card?
The Virginia DMV issues ID cards for people who don't drive. Registered voters who need a photo ID to vote can ask their local voter registration office about a Virginia Voter Photo ID card.
Questions about cost and what to bring? Check the official page below.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/id-cards
What to bring to DMV
How do I get a birth certificate?
If you were born in Virginia, the Virginia Department of Health's Office of Vital Records can give you a copy. You can order online, by mail, or in person.
Many DMV customer service centers can print a Virginia birth certificate too. Call 804.662.6200 with questions.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/vital-records/
Ask about help with costs
Some shelters and programs help pay for birth certificates and IDs. Ask your case manager or dial 211.
How do I replace my Social Security card?
You may be able to request a replacement card online with a my Social Security account. Or visit a Social Security office.
There's no cost for a replacement card.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ssa.gov/
What if I don't have an address?
Many shelters and day centers can help you with mail. Ask your program for a letter that shows where you stay.
Questions about what DMV accepts? Check the official page below.
Say you lost your wallet in Blacksburg
You could order a copy of your birth certificate, then look up your Social Security number. You could ask a shelter or program for a letter for proof of where you stay. Then you could visit a DMV customer service center.
Keep your papers in one folder or zip bag. Take photos of each one and save them where you can find them, like your email.
Never carry your Social Security card unless you need it.
One paper at a time
It can feel like a lot. Every paper you get makes the next one easier.
What papers do I need when I'm leaving jail or prison?
Getting your papers back is one of the first steps after release, and it makes everything else easier, like getting a job, housing and benefits. The Virginia Department of Corrections has reentry resources, and staff may help people get a birth certificate, Social Security card and DMV ID before release.
If you're getting out soon, ask your counselor or probation officer early.
Questions about what's offered where you are? Check the official page below.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://vadoc.virginia.gov/inmates-and-supervisees/reentry-resources
Papers to ask about before release
Ask early
Some papers take weeks to arrive. The sooner you ask, the more likely you'll have them on day one.
What should I do in my first week out?
The first days can feel like a rush. Take it one step at a time.
- Check in with your probation officer, if you have one, when you're told to.
- Apply for SNAP and Medicaid on CommonHelp if you haven't yet.
- Get your ID if you don't have it. The steps earlier in this guide can help.
- Ask your local reentry council or Virginia Career Works office about jobs.
- Dial 211 for food, shelter and other help near you.
Say you were just released and are staying with family in Petersburg
You could visit a DMV customer service center with your release papers and birth certificate to ask about an ID. You could apply for SNAP on CommonHelp. You could visit a Virginia Career Works office to start looking for work. Small wins add up.
Questions people ask a lot
Do I need a birth certificate to get an ID?
Usually, yes, or another paper that proves who you are. Check the DMV page.
What if I was born in another state?
Order your birth certificate from that state's vital records office.
Can someone help me pay?
Some programs help with costs. Dial 211.
What if my name changed?
Bring papers that show the change, like a marriage certificate or court order.
How long does it take?
It depends. Ask when you order.
How do I make the most of each call?
Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.
- Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
- Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
- Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
- Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
- Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
- Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
Keep going, friend
If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.
What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?
A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.
- Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
- Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
- If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
- Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
- If a state agency turns you down, read the letter right away. It explains how to ask for a review. Call legal aid if you want help.
- Dial 211, or search 211virginia.org any time, to look for other options near you.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
Here is help that works across Virginia, then local help in the Richmond area and in Northern Virginia, then help for Hampton Roads and other areas. Call ahead for hours.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
Social Security card replacement
What it offers A replacement card is no cost. You may be able to apply online; if not, you'll make an appointment at a local office. The card comes by mail in 5 to 10 business days. A local office can't print one for you. In most cases, knowing your number is enough.
How to reach Start online at https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card or call 800.772.1213, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 7 pm. TTY 800.325.0778.
Source https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Virginia
Here are some places to start.
Virginia DMV: ID card
What it offers A state photo ID for people who don't drive. DMV also lists help with no cost credentials and vital records for young people who are homeless, and you can get some vital records at DMV.
How to reach Find a location at https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/ See what to bring at the source page.
Source https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/id-cards
Last checked October 22, 2026
Virginia Vital Records (Department of Health)
What it offers Copies of Virginia birth certificates and other vital records, by mail, online, or in person. Many DMV offices can also print birth certificates.
How to reach Call 804.662.6200 with questions. See ways to order at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/vital-records/
Source https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/vital-records/
Last checked October 22, 2026
211 Virginia
What it offers A help line and online search for local help with housing, food, utilities, health care and more, anywhere in Virginia.
How to reach Dial 211, or search any time at https://211virginia.org/
Source https://211virginia.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
CommonHelp (Virginia benefits portal)
What it offers Virginia's online site to apply for SNAP (food benefits), TANF cash help, Medicaid, child care help and energy help, and to check your case.
How to reach Apply at https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/ Questions: call the Enterprise Call Center at 855.635.4370.
Source https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Greater Richmond
Here are some places to start.
Greater Richmond Homeless Connection Line (Homeward)
What it offers The front door to shelter and homeless help for the City of Richmond and nearby counties. Call if you are homeless now or about to lose your place.
How to reach Call 804.972.0813.
Source https://homewardva.org/get-help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
City of Richmond Department of Social Services
What it offers Applications for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid and energy help for Richmond residents, plus emergency help and referrals.
How to reach Call 804.646.7212.
Source https://www.rva.gov/social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Daily Planet Health Services
What it offers Health care in Richmond, including for people who are homeless, with medical, dental and behavioral health care.
How to reach Call 804.783.2505.
Source https://www.dailyplanetva.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Northern Virginia
Here are some places to start.
Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning
What it offers The first call for help with housing, food, financial help and other needs in Fairfax County.
How to reach Call 703.222.0880.
Source https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Fairfax County Office to Prevent and End Homelessness
What it offers Fairfax County's homeless response, with shelter, outreach and housing programs.
How to reach Call 703.246.5000, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. TTY 711.
Source https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for City of Alexandria residents.
How to reach Call 703.746.5700, or text 703.346.5599.
Source https://www.alexandriava.gov/DCHS
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Hampton Roads and other areas
Every Virginia city and county has a local department of social services. If you don't live in the Richmond area or Northern Virginia, start with yours. Here are a few, plus help in Hampton Roads. Find any local office at https://www.dss.virginia.gov/localagency/ or dial 211.
Norfolk Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Norfolk residents.
How to reach Call 757.664.6000.
Source https://www.norfolk.gov/295/Human-Services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Virginia Beach Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Virginia Beach residents.
How to reach Call the customer call center at 757.385.4306.
Source https://hs.virginiabeach.gov/financial-assistance
Last checked October 22, 2026
Chesapeake Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Chesapeake residents.
How to reach Call 757.382.2000.
Source https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/358/Chesapeake-Social-Services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Lynchburg Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Lynchburg residents.
How to reach Call 434.455.5850.
Source https://www.lynchburgva.gov/social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Samaritan House (Virginia Beach)
What it offers Shelter and support in Hampton Roads for people affected by domestic violence, sexual violence or homelessness.
How to reach 24/7 hotline: call 757.430.2120. Office: 757.631.0710.
Source https://www.samaritanhouseva.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia
What it offers Civil legal help for people who qualify in Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore.
How to reach Call the Community Support Team at 757.827.5078.
Source https://www.laseva.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Virginia Community Action Partnership
What it offers Lists the Community Action Agencies across Virginia. Local agencies may help with emergency needs, job training, Head Start and other programs when funds allow.
How to reach Find your agency at https://vacap.org/ or dial 211.
Source https://vacap.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
My ID plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My next steps
Calls I made today
Key numbers to keep
You're doing the right thing
Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.
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.
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