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Obtaining Identification After Incarceration

From Prisonpedia

Obtaining identification after incarceration is a critical first step in the reentry process. Valid government-issued identification is required for employment, housing, banking, healthcare, and virtually all aspects of reintegrating into society.

Overview

Many individuals leave correctional facilities without valid identification documents. IDs may have expired during incarceration, been lost, or never obtained. Without proper identification, returning citizens cannot:

  • Apply for jobs
  • Open bank accounts
  • Rent housing
  • Access government benefits
  • Obtain healthcare
  • Enroll in education programs

Types of Identification Needed

Primary Identification

  • State-issued driver's license or ID card - The most commonly accepted form of identification
  • U.S. Passport - Useful for identification and may be needed for employment verification
  • Social Security card - Required for employment and many government services

Secondary Documents

  • Birth certificate
  • Military ID (for veterans)
  • Tribal ID (for Native Americans)
  • Immigration documents (for non-citizens)

Obtaining a Social Security Card

Process

1. Complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) 2. Provide proof of identity and citizenship/immigration status 3. Submit application at a local Social Security Administration office

Documents Accepted

  • State-issued ID or driver's license
  • U.S. passport
  • Employee ID card
  • School ID card
  • Health insurance card
  • Military ID

Special Provisions for Released Individuals

The Social Security Administration may accept:

  • Prison release documents
  • Prison ID cards (in some cases)
  • Letters from correctional facilities verifying identity

Replacement Cards

If you had a Social Security number but lost your card, you can request a replacement. Up to three replacement cards per year and ten per lifetime are permitted.

Obtaining a Birth Certificate

Process

Birth certificates must be obtained from the vital records office in the state where you were born.

Methods

  • In person - Visit the vital records office with identification
  • By mail - Submit application with payment and copies of identification
  • Online - Many states offer online ordering through VitalChek or state portals

Fees

Typically $10-30 depending on the state. Some reentry programs provide vouchers or assistance with fees.

Challenges

  • May require existing identification to obtain
  • Processing times vary (days to weeks)
  • Out-of-state requests take longer

Obtaining a State ID or Driver's License

Requirements Vary by State

Most states require:

  • Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport)
  • Proof of Social Security number
  • Proof of state residency (utility bill, lease, mail)
  • Payment of fees

REAL ID Compliance

REAL ID-compliant identification requires additional documentation:

  • Full legal name documentation
  • Date of birth verification
  • Social Security number
  • Two proofs of residency
  • Lawful status documentation (for non-citizens)

Fee Waivers

Some states offer fee waivers or reduced fees for:

  • Individuals experiencing homelessness
  • Those receiving public benefits
  • Recently released individuals (varies by state)

Pre-Release ID Programs

Bureau of Prisons Initiatives

The federal Bureau of Prisons has programs to help obtain identification before release:

  • Coordination with Social Security Administration
  • Birth certificate requests
  • State ID application assistance

State Programs

Many state correctional systems now have pre-release ID programs that:

  • Verify identity using prison records
  • Coordinate with DMV offices
  • Issue state IDs before release

Challenges and Solutions

Circular Documentation Problem

The "Catch-22" of needing ID to get ID can be addressed by:

  • Using prison release documents as temporary identification
  • Working with reentry service providers who have relationships with agencies
  • Requesting ID while still incarcerated

Expired Documents

Documents that expired during incarceration:

  • Can often be renewed rather than replaced
  • May require additional verification
  • Some agencies expedite renewals for recently released individuals

Name Changes

If your legal name changed (marriage, divorce, legal name change):

  • Obtain court documents reflecting the change
  • Update Social Security records first
  • Then update other documents

Resources and Assistance

Reentry Service Providers

Many organizations assist with obtaining identification:

  • Provide transportation to agencies
  • Help gather required documents
  • Cover fees for those who cannot afford them
  • Navigate complex requirements

Legal aid organizations can help with:

  • Identity theft issues
  • Correcting errors on records
  • Name change proceedings
  • Immigration-related ID issues

One-Stop Reentry Centers

Some jurisdictions have consolidated reentry services where individuals can:

  • Apply for multiple documents in one location
  • Access case managers familiar with the process
  • Receive expedited processing

See Also

References

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