How do I obtain Identification?


Attempting to obtain identification can be a major obstacle for those that experienced childhood trauma. Many individuals coming from neglectful or abusive homes enter adulthood with no form of identification. In fact, approximately 7 million U.S. adults do not have a valid government issued photo I.D. This disproportionately affects elderly individuals, ethnic minorities and those living in poverty. This is a disheartening statistic as possession of a valid photo I.D. is needed for a multitude of services and opportunities; down to healthcare and employment. 

It’s not uncommon for birth certificates and social security cards to go missing among the chaos. And if growing up with neglectful parents, the individual may not be afforded parental aid in obtaining a driver’s license or a state identification card. Unfortunately, it can be rather confusing knowing where to start as you must identify yourself before obtaining identification. Below I’ll explore some ways to move past these roadblocks.  

Want more information on childhood trauma?

Neglect, ACE’s, Abuse…what does it all mean?

How to obtain photo I.D.

If you’re completely cut off from your family, over the age of 18, and have no form of identification, the first form you will likely need is a photo ID. This is required to obtain other identification such as a birth certificate and social security card. The NCDMV offers multiple methods of identifying yourself, most of which aren’t helpful to neglected individuals. Nevertheless, below are some items the NCDMV accepts. You will need proof of age/identity, proof of social security number, and proof of residence. If you’re not a citizen of the U.S., you will need to provide proof of legal presence to obtain identification.

Proof of Age & Identity 

Birth Certificate (Family members/lawyers/case workers can help obtain this) 

School Documents (Official transcript/registration letter, Diploma or GED from a NC school) 

Court Documents (Adoption papers etc.) 

Government Documents  

More… 

Proof of Social Security Number 

Medicaid/Medicare document 

Social Security Card 

Social Security Document reflecting Social Security Number 

Payroll record with name and full Social Security Number 

More… 

Proof of Residency (U.S. Citizens) 

Utility/Cable Bill 

Preprinted Financial Statement 

School Records 

Letter from homeless shelter 

More… 

Proof of Legal Presence (non-U.S. Citizens) 

Certificate of Citizenship 

Certificate of Naturalization 

Valid, unexpired foreign passport 

I-20 Certificate of Eligibility Student Status 

More… 

Once you have the documents needed, schedule an office appointment here. You’ll need to take these documents with you to a DMV office to apply for your State Identification card. These are available at no fee for many individuals, including those over 17 years old and homeless. Once you receive your photo I.D., you can move forward with obtaining your birth certificate. For more information on how to obtain a state issued photo I.D. in North Carolina, go here. 


How to obtain Birth Certificate in North Carolina

To obtain your birth certificate in North Carolina, you can make a request online at NCDHHS Vital Records. They will need you confirm your identity using your state issued photo ID. Be aware, this process may take longer (30 days-3 months). If you’re able to visit the Register of Deeds office in the county where you were born, that may be faster. There are also more fees associated with online retrieval. Whichever way you proceed, you can expect to pay approximately $10-$60. Although, there are programs in NC that can assist in this area.

How to obtain replacement Social Security Card

Now that you have your photo I.D. and birth certificate, let’s request a replacement social security card! There are a few different ways you can do this. The SSA website offers a way to request a replacement card online to U.S. Citizens, so long as no changes need to be made. You will need to mail your photo I.D. and birth certificate to the address they provide, and they will return them along with your new social security card. Alternatively, you can print/complete the form provided on their website and visit any social security office near you with your two forms of identification and make the request in person. To find more information on how to request a replacement social security card, visit the SSA website here.  

Resources

There are resources available to assist those in financial hardship and homeless. Below you will find two programs available in North Carolina. These programs work to serve underprivileged children and families. Their offerings allow individuals to gain a sense of control and independence in their lives. Please do not be afraid to reach out, they aim to provide safety and security to those in need.

Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy

The Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy makes effort to ensure individuals have access to basic needs. When basic needs are met, we have a better chance for opportunities and stability in our lives. The CCLA works with children and family’s, immigrants, those with disabilities, senior citizens and veterans. Please visit their website https://charlottelegaladvocacy.org/children-families/ or reach out to them for more information.

Raleigh Rescue Mission

The Raleigh Rescue Mission is a faith based program that offers a plan they call the “New Life Plan” this consists of 6 phases that offer vocational training, housing and more. This program aims to assist individuals in creating a life of opportunity and reducing the rate of homelessness. Please visit their website https://www.raleighrescue.org/the-problem/community-need/ or reach out to them for more information.


Final Thoughts

It’s hard trying to navigate life after childhood trauma. Trying to piece together a life that is worth living can seem impossible at times, especially when you’re starting from scratch. From my own experience, it pays to be humble; to admit you’re not sure which direction to go or what step to take. Whether you’re going to obtain identification or facing something much more difficult, there are people that want to help. However, we must be courageous enough to ask. There are also people who have been where we are and can share insight and experiences that will propel us forward. Today, I encourage us to find the people that may not know our mile but know our path all too well. <3 

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