If you do not have a driver’s license, social security card, or birth certificate when you leave prison, you will want to apply as soon as possible. This section covers how to obtain a state ID, social security card, and birth certificate in Missouri.
If you don’t have a driver’s license or other form of ID when you leave prison, you should apply for a state ID as soon as possible. In Missouri, to purchase a State ID card, you will need to provide your SSN (Social Security Number) card, birth certificate, and proof of residence (a bill or paycheck with your address, for example). It costs $12 for an ID valid for three years or $18 for a six-year ID. You need apply in person at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
If you did not receive a birth certificate from the DOC, you should request one from the state in which you were born as soon as you are released. Different states have different processes to request a birth certificate.
Applying Online
If you have internet access, you can apply online and receive your birth certificate in a matter of days, but the application costs between $27 and $50, depending on how fast you request shipping (the cost is $15 + shipping). You will need a credit card to apply online here.
Applying in Missouri
If you were born in Missouri, you can request your birth certificate through the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) in person or by mail for $15. In-person and mail requests may take up to 12 to 16 weeks to process. To request your birth certificate in person, you can print out and complete the application from this website and take it to any state health department office. You will need to pay $15 by check when you submit your application.
To request your birth certificate by mail, you can print out the form and mail it to the address below. If you do not have access to the internet, you can also request a form by mail from this address:
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Vital Records
930 Wildwood Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65109
If you did not receive a birth certificate from the DOC, request one as soon as you are released. You will then need to fill out a SS-5 form to request a Social Security Card, which you can find online here or at a local Social Security Administration Office. In order to get a Social Security Card, you will need a copy of your birth certificate and a photo ID. A state ID or driver’s license is preferred, but you can also use your DOC ID, Medicaid Card, or a Student ID.