Important Documents

Obtaining important documents can be a difficult process, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you need to apply for a driver’s license, replace a lost Social Security card, order a vital record, or locate your immunization record, this page will assist you in getting the document(s) that you need. 


If you do not have any form of ID, the first step is to obtain your birth certificate. Contact the State of Michigan Vital Records Department at 517-335-8666 or VRCustomerService@michigan.gov to get started. 

Contact MILS

If you need additional assistance, please contact MILS at 231-947-0122.

Driver’s License and State ID


Michigan law requires the Secretary of State to offer young men* under the age of 26 the opportunity to register with Selective Service when applying for an original driver's license. Note that registering this way through the Secretary of State is optional. Declining this option does not affect your eligibility to obtain a driver's license. 


*Selective Service bases the registration requirement on sex assigned at birth rather than gender.

Social Security Card

Replacing a Social Security Card


Replacement Social Security cards have the same number as the previous card. Because of this, you may not need a replacement card immediately. You do need a Social Security number (SSN) to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive some government services. However, you do not always need to show your Social Security card. Knowing your SSN is sufficient in many cases.


To replace your Social Security card, you must provide evidence of identity. You will need one of the following:


If you were born outside the U.S., you must also prove your U.S. citizenship or current immigration status. Form SS-5 provides examples of accepted documents for proving citizenship and immigration status.


When replacing a child’s Social Security card, you will also need to provide documents proving your identity and custody/relationship to the child.


All documents must be either originals or certified copies by the issuing agency. Social Security Administration (SSA) cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Any documents you mail to SSA will be returned to you along with a receipt. If you cannot provide the required documents, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.


You may be eligible to replace your social security card online. 


Or, you can take or mail Form SS-5 and the required documents to your nearest Social Security Office. 


Requesting a Social Security Card for the First Time


To request a Social Security number for the first time, you will have to provide documents that show evidence of:

Form SS-5 provides examples of accepted documents for proving age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status.


When requesting a Social Security card for a child, you will also need to provide documents proving your identity and custody/relationship to the child.


All documents must be either originals or certified copies by the issuing agency. Social Security Administration (SSA) cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Any documents you mail to SSA will be returned to you along with a receipt. If you cannot provide the required documents, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.


You can request a Social Security card for the first time online. 


Or, you can take or mail Form SS-5 and the required documents to your nearest Social Security Office.


*The PDF file linked below does not fully comply with all applicable guidelines for accessible digital documents. For alternative formats, contact us at 231-947-0122 or probono@mils3.org.*

Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates)

Immunization Records