
The wildfires have taken much from Angelenos, and even after the immediate threats subside, there will still be many more concerns for L.A. County residents. One of the tasks that many will face after they return to their homes will be getting replacements for lost or misplaced official documents. While it’s never an enjoyable task, here’s how to more easily apply for document replacements during this difficult time.
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Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)
If you apply for FEMA assistance after being affected by the Los Angeles County wildfires, you will need to provide proof of identity and residence and other documentation. A good place to start is a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), where you can replace a California Driver’s License and many other vital records, including property deeds, Social Security cards and U.S. Passports. To find a DRC, visit DRCLocator.Read our full guide here on how to apply for FEMA assistance.
Visit a Local Assistance Center (LAC)
The DMV is working with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to help Californians affected by natural disasters by having Local Assistance Centers (LACs). At these centers, DMV helps Californians replace or re-apply for the following documents:
- Driver’s licenses
- Identification cards
- Vehicle registration and titles
- Disabled person parking placards
- License plates and stickers
Additionally, customers may:
- Submit vehicle disposal paperwork
- Request driver’s record printouts
- Process a change of address
All of these services are also available for free at DMV offices to residents impacted by natural disasters. Find your local DMV office here.
How to replace State of California documents
Driver’s License and State ID
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can help provide replacements for lost driver’s licenses, ID cards, and vehicle titles.
- Visit the CA DMV – Natural Disaster Assistance website.
- call 1-800-777-0133 (or TTY 1-800-735-2929 or 1-800-368-4327) for hearing or speech impaired)
- Visit your local Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). To find a DRC, visit DRCLocator.
- Visit your local DMV office.
Birth, Death, or Marriage Certificates and Other Vital Records
The California Department of Public Health is working to help those who have lost vital records as a result of the disaster. Birth, death, and marriage records should be requested from the county recorder’s office in the county where the event occurred.
- Visit County Registrars and Recorders website.
- Visit 711 TRS.
- Call 916-445-2684 or 1-800-735-2929.
- Call 711 for Telecommunications Relay Services.
How to replace Federal documents
Social Security Cards
- Contact the Social Security Administration online here.
- Visit your local Social Security office in-person and fill out an application for a Social Security card with a valid ID. Find your local SSA office here.
- Additionally, Social Security representatives are also available at DRCs.
Medicare Cards
- Visit MyMedicare.gov.
- Call 800-633-4227 (TTY 877-486-2048)
- Visit your local Social Security Office.
Green Cards
- Visit U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) online here to complete Form I-90, the application to replace a Permanent Resident card.
- For more information, visit the USCIS website here.
Passports
- To report a lost U.S. Passport, visit the Travel.State.Gov website here.
- Passport services personnel are also available at DRCs.
Military Records
- Obtain information on how to submit a request from the National Archives online here.
Federal Tax Returns
- Request Form 4506 for a copy of your tax return at the IRS website here.
How to get relocated USPS Mail Services
Wildfire-impacted residents can pick up their mail at relocated post offices or have mail forwarded to a temporary location. Get more information on USPS mail relocation services here.
How to get Insurance Policy Information
Call your insurance company or agent and ask for a copy of your policy, including the Declaration Page. A Declaration Page summarizes the types and amounts of coverage you have and how long it lasts.
Put your state-issued ID on your phone
It’s now legal for California residents to add their state-issued IDs to their Apple Wallet. Given recent events it’s a good idea have a digital copy of an ID safely on your phone. You can read our full guide here on all the details of a mobile wallet.