Tool 3: Applying for Various Forms of Identification

State of Delaware Driver’s License or I.D. Card

If you have a valid driver’s license from another state, you can acquire a Delaware driver’s license by turning in your old license, supplying proof of Delaware residency and paying the required fee.

If you have a suspended driver’s license, you need to deal with the terms of suspension before you will be issued either a Delaware Driver’s License or even a State I.D. Card.

If you have lost your Delaware Driver’s License, you need to submit proof of identification, proof of residency and pay the required fee.

If you are applying for a state driver’s license or State Identification card, you will need:

1. A certified copy of your birth certificate
2. A copy of your Social Security Card
3. Two Proofs of Delaware Residency (e.g. Voter’s Registration Card)
4. Required fee

Birth Certificate

If you were born in Delaware, you can get a copy of your birth certificate by going in person to the Bureau of Vital Statistics at Limestone Building 100. The cost is $25.00.

If you were born in another state, you must complete the application form of the state’s Bureau of Vital Statistic. The cost of a birth certificate ranges from $10.00 to $45.00 by check or money order. Friendship House is also usually able to assist you with the application costs. The wait for your birth certificate is usually three to four weeks. Because of new Homeland Security rules, applications for birth certificates now require a photo-copy on one's driver's license or State I.D. card.

A Voter’s Registration Card

Since most homeless people do not possess the normal proofs of residency (bills, bank accounts, etc.), Friendship House recommends that every person acquire a voter’s registration card by registering to vote. Since the card will have your name and your mailing address, it can serve as your proof of Delaware residency.

With a referral letter from Friendship House, any homeless person who is not a convicted felon can register to vote at the City/County Building. The card will be mailed to you within the week.

A Social Security Card

If you have lost your social security card, you may apply for it in person at the Social Security Field Office located on the third floor of the Federal Building at 10th & King Street. The office is open Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. At other times, you may go to the main office in New Castle. Although there is no charge for the card, you will be required to present proof of identification. A new card will be mailed to you in two to three weeks. If you require immediate proof of your social security number, the office can give you a printout of your information.

If you are applying for a social security card for the first time for yourself or any of your children, you will be required to present a birth certificate and at least one other piece of identification.