If you’ve lost all your forms of identification, it’s natural to feel stressed and overwhelmed, whether it’s down to an accident, theft, or simply misplacing your vital records.
The good news is it’s a problem you can solve. This guide will show you exactly how to replace your lost IDs and vital records step by step, while also keeping your personal information safe from identity theft.
While the task at hand may seem daunting, there are just 5 simple steps you need to follow to replace all your certified vital records, and get your other IDs reissued to restore your identity.
What to Do When You Lose All Your IDs
If you’ve just realized that all of your IDs are missing, you’re probably wondering where to get started. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how to go about the process and which document you must replace first.
Step 1: Report your lost documents
It’s important to act quickly to avoid fines and protect yourself from identity theft. Here’s how to report lost ID documents.
- File a report — Call 311 to learn how to file a report for lost IDs in your area.
- Notify agencies that issued your IDs — Report passports, military ID cards, driver’s licenses, or base pass cards.
- Check for ID copies — Reach out to your employer, school, university, parents, or lawyer, who may have your IDs and key personal data on file.
If you’re abroad and lose your ID or passport, call the nearest U.S. embassy for assistance with lost documents.
Step 2: Order a birth certificate replacement
Next, it’s best to order a certified copy of your birth certificate online. This will help verify your identity and allow you to replace the rest of your lost documents and vital records.
It’s also possible to get an ID without a birth certificate or Social Security card. Consider which vital records you need to replace when working out the best course of action.
Step 3: Replace your other IDs
Once you have your birth certificate, follow the specific procedures to replace each ID that you are missing. The requirements for each document, like your driver’s license, Social Security card (SCC), or passport vary from state to state.
In most cases, you’ll need to submit a request form and some supporting documents to the appropriate agencies.
Step 4: Safeguard your replacement IDs
Once you’ve received new copies, make sure to properly store and protect your new IDs to prevent future losses.
It’s a good idea to create a secure filing system for key documents like birth certificates, which you do not need frequent access to.
If you live in an area that is often affected by hurricanes or other natural disasters, consider storing your records in a fireproof and waterproof safe. Many people also opt to store digital copies of their vital records.
Step 5: Monitor for identity theft
It’s important to keep an eye out for identity theft after losing any form of ID, especially if you suspect it was stolen. Here are some tips for protecting your identity:
- Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports for unusual activity.
- Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file.
- Sign up for identity theft protection services.
If you suspect that someone has fraudulently used your details, report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and contact your bank to secure your accounts.
Replacing Your Birth Certificate When You Have Lost Your IDs
Your birth certificate is the most important document that proves your identity. It allows you to recuperate your other identification documents, such as your state ID card, driver’s license, passport and more.
If you’ve lost all your official government identification documents, the best thing you can do is to first get a certified copy of your birth certificate online.
Fortunately, this can be done easily from your smartphone, tablet or computer. Make sure to fill out the required information carefully, including your full name, date and place of birth, and parents’ names, to submit your request.
Can I replace my birth certificate if I have lost all my IDs?
Certain states allow you to get a birth certificate replacement without requiring a government-issued photo ID.
Other states request that your parents or legal guardians —whose names are on your birth certificate— submit a notarized letter with a copy of their photo IDs to get a replacement birth certificate issued on your behalf.
To replace your lost birth certificate without any other identification, contact your local vital records office for instructions in your specific case.
This may vary depending on the state you were born in, whether you were adopted, born on US territory, or abroad, and other factors.
How do I restore my birth certificate if I have changed my name?
If you have changed your name for marriage, divorce or other reasons, you may need to request a copy of your marriage license, divorce decree or court order of name change first.
These documents can usually be obtained without a photo ID at your local vital records office.
How can I obtain my birth certificate if my parents are deceased?
If your parents are deceased or unable to submit a notarized request letter, you could try to get your driver’s license replacement first.
If you’re unable to get a driver’s license without your birth certificate or other forms of ID in your state, you can request a court assign you a legal guardian. This would allow them to obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate for you.
How can I get a copy of my birth certificate if I was born abroad?
To get a birth certificate for U.S. citizens born abroad, you must first request a different type of document.
If you were born abroad or on a U.S. military base in another country, contact the Department of State for your Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
Your parents or legal guardians have to make this request on your behalf, via a notarized letter and accompanying copies of their photo IDs.
Replacing Your Social Security Card
If you’ve lost your Social Security card (SSC), you should notify the Social Security Administration immediately. This is the first step to getting a replacement Social Security card.
To complete the process, you'll need a certified copy of your birth certificate (to prove your citizenship and age) and a photo ID to verify your identity. Check the list below for accepted photo identification for a SSC:
Valid IDs for requesting a new Social Security card
- U.S. driver’s license
- U.S. passport card
- U.S. passport book
- State-issued ID card
- School ID card
- Military card
- Health insurance card
Once you have supplied the required documentation, you’ll receive your new SSC.
Replacing Your State ID Card
State ID cards are generally used as a common form of identification in day-to-day life. They’re often required to open a bank account, rent an apartment, apply for a job, or to verify your identity for domestic travel.
Requirements to replace your ID card vary from state to state. To get started, contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — the body responsible for issuing state identification cards.
You’ll be asked to show your birth certificate to get a new State ID, so make sure to order a replacement first if you’ve also misplaced your birth record.
Replacing Your Driver's License
The procedure to replace your driver’s license depends on which state you live in. To start the process, visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles office to complete an application in person.
Some states will allow you to replace your driver’s license without the original card or other identifying documents. However, in most cases, it’s much easier to do if you have a certified copy of your birth certificate.
If you’re able to find a copy or scan of your original driver’s license, take note of the driver’s license number to use in your replacement application. You’ll also need your Social Security number, even if you don’t have the SSC card.
After completing the required forms at the DMV, your picture and thumbprint will be taken. The DMV clerk will then validate the information provided, charge you a replacement fee and issue a temporary license or ID.
You’ll receive a permanent replacement by mail in 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the wait time at your local office.
Security Tips on Storing Your Identification Documents
Storing your vital records in a safe place not only saves you time when processing paperwork, but also helps to protect your identity and keep your personal data secure. Here are some helpful tips on protecting your ID documents:
- Store original documents and certified copies in a water and fireproof safe, or secure filing system.
- Avoid carrying ID documents that you don’t need for day-to-day use, like your Social Security card, in your wallet.
- Scan all your essential documents and IDs and keep digital copies saved on a device or in cloud storage.
- Take photos of your passport and driver’s license on your phone, so you have the details to hand when needed.
- Memorize key data, like your ID and Social Security number, if possible.
- Officials won’t accept photocopies of official documents, but they can be helpful if you lose the originals, since they include key details. Keep copies in a safe place or with someone you trust, like a family member or friend.
By following these tips, you can ensure your identification documents are safe, easily accessible, and protected against loss or theft.
