ID’s, Birth Certificates & Social Services

Ordering a Replacement Social Security Card

In some situations, you can order a replacement social security card online at: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card.

You can also order a replacement social security card in person at your local Social Security Field Office. In order to do so, you will need to bring a government-issued photo ID. Many people use their driver’s license or TN state ID, but you can also use a passport or military ID. Along with your ID, you’ll need to fill out a replacement form. Sometimes a worker will complete this for/with you, other times they may give you the form to complete and ask you to come back to the window once you are done. Your replacement card will be mailed to you within 14 business days.

Social Security Administration – Metrocenter
- 800-772-1213
- 120 Athens Way, Nashville, TN 37228
- Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Social Security Administration – Madison Field Office
- 800-772-1213
- 140 Cude Ln, Madison, TN 37115
- Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

*Please note that in 2025, the Social Security Office has been changing its hours and operations. Please call ahead if possible to make sure they are still accepting walk-ins. At times in 2025, they have suspended walk-in services, requiring appointments ahead of time.

Questions related to social security numbers or claims information should be directed to SSA’s toll free service at 1-800-772-1213 or toll free TDD service at 1-800-325-0778 from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Mondays – Fridays.

Ordering Tennessee ID’s

If you have never had a TN ID before:
To apply for a TN ID for the first time, you must have a copy of your birth certificate and proof of residence or proof of homelessness from a social service agency. (See below for information about ordering a birth certificate.)

If you’ve had a TN ID before:
The Downtown Express Station is the quickest way to apply for a replacement ID. You will receive a paper copy that day and a hard copy will come in the mail. You can order a replacement ID without waiting in line for a number by using the kiosk (computer station).

You can also order a replacement ID online (click “Visit e-Services” button): https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/classd/dlduplicate.html

Driver Services Center Downtown Express Station

615-253-2062
William R. Snodgrass Building, 3rd Floor:
312 Rosa Parks Ave., Nashville, TN 37243
IMPORTANT: Building Entrance to Driver Services Center is on 7th Avenue across from War Memorial Auditorium between Charlotte Avenue and Union St.
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: $8-$12

Additional service centers online at (scroll down until you see “Find a Driver Services Location” blue button): www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/locations.html

Ordering Birth Certificates

If you were born in TN, you can go to either of the following locations and complete an application onsite. The cost is $15 per copy, and you will take your copies with you that day.

TN Office of Vital Records (first floor)
- 710 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243
  - Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Metro Public Health Department
- 2500 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209
- Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

People born in other states can order online from www.vitalchek.com. The website will guide you through the ordering process step by step, but here are a few things to be aware of:

You will be asked who is ordering the birth certificate. Select the option that says the owner of the birth certificate is the one ordering.
The website automatically selects UPS shipping (which is expensive and has to be signed for) unless you click the drop-down menu and select the standard mail option available for most states.
If you do not have a mailing address to receive your birth certificate at, people often use Room In The Inn – 705 Drexel St. Nashville, TN 37203 or Community Care Fellowship/Ken & Carol’s – 511 South 8th Street Nashville, TN 37206 for delivery.
Some states will require that the person ordering the birth certificate send a scan or copy (front and back) of a state ID. You can take a picture or scan with a phone as long as it is very clear and doesn’t have a glare. The website will provide directions about uploading or faxing documents if necessary. Each state has different requirements.