You can get a no-cost 6-month temporary birth certificate from the Minnesota Department of Health if you were born in Minnesota and do not have access to your birth certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the no-cost Minnesota ID card for youth experiencing homelessness?
Eligible individuals must be 24 years of age or younger who:
- Is unaccompanied by a parent or guardian and is without shelter where care and supervision are available.
- Has a parent or legal guardian who is unable or unwilling to shelter and care for them.
- Lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.
Reference:
Minnesota Statutes, section 256K.45, subdivision 1a, paragraph (c)
What do I need to apply for a no-cost ID card?
You will need a birth certificate as proof of identification and an
Eligibility Verification for Homeless Youth ID Card form signed by a human services agency employee, school staff or a school social worker.
What if I can't get my birth certificate?
The Minnesota Department of Health can issue
a no-cost homeless youth birth certificate so you can apply for your ID card if you were born in Minnesota. The temporary birth certificate is an official legal document and expires six months from the date issued. The Department of Health put together a
fact sheet and
checklist with more information. You can contact them directly if you have questions by:
Where do I apply?
Apply in person at a regional DVS exam station, deputy registrar or driver's license agent office that accepts first time applications. Your application includes having your photo taken. A parent does not need to sign the application.
Office locations and service information are available on the DPS-DVS website
drive.mn.gov. Select office locations from the DVS information panel or call 651-297-2005.
Can I apply online?
No. you must apply in person.
Is the ID card issued to youth experiencing homelessness different from a regular Minnesota ID card?
No. It is a regular Minnesota identification card issued by DPS-DVS. There are no indicators on the card to identify the cardholder as someone experiencing homelessness.
How old do I have to be to apply for the no-cost card?
There is no minimum age requirement but you cannot be older than 24.
How long is the card valid?
If you are under 21 you will receive an ID card marked “Under-21". This card will expire on your 21st birthday. It will then expire every four years on your birthday.
Does my parent have to sign anything for me to get the no-cost ID card?
No. Your parent's signature is not required on any documents or application form.
Can I get another ID card if lose my card or if it is stolen?
Yes. You can apply for a replacement card. DPS-DVS will issue the replacement card for no fee if you also submit a new Eligibility Verification for Homeless Youth ID Card when you apply.
Is my card issued to me when I apply or do I have to pick it up?
Minnesota law requires DPS-DVS to mail your Minnesota ID card to you. You must provide a mailing address when you apply. A mailing address can be a temporary address or that of a caseworker, social worker, friend, relative, etc.
What can I do if my address changes?
You can apply for a replacement card with the new address. DPS-DVS will issue the replacement card for no fee if you also submit a new Eligibility Verification for Homeless Youth ID Card when you apply.
