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Obtaining a Social Security Card or Birth Certificate
This video explains how to get a copy of your social security card OR birth certificate:
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Obtaining a Birth Certificate (born in Wake County)
In Person Request:
Visit one of the Register of Deeds office locations.
- Parent or student must provide a driver's license or passport
- Important tip: familiarize yourself or pre-fill the application ahead of time
Online Request:
Click here to request a birth certificate online. This option takes a couple days to process and 7-10 days to be mailed.
Cost: $10 (most locations accept cash, check, or money order)
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Obtaining a Birth Certificate (born in NC but not Wake County)
In Person Request: Visit the NC Vital Records office at 300 S. Salisbury St. on the first floor of the Wake County Justice Center in Raleigh.
- Cost: $24 (cash, check, money order, credit/debit card)
Online Request: Contact the Register of Deeds office in the county you were born. Office can be found here.
- Cost: varies by county
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Obtaining a Birth Certificate (born outside of NC)
In Person Request: Must be present in the county/state of your birth to make this request. Contact the Register of Deeds office in the proper county for instructions on how to make the request.
Online (varies by state): Many states contract with a service like VitalChek for online orders. This is often the fastest method. You will need to provide your information, upload proof of identity, and pay with a credit card.Online via the state's website: Some states handle online requests directly through their own vital records portal. A quick google search will help determine whether this is possible.By Mail: Most states also provide an application form on their website that you can print, complete, and mail in with a copy of your ID and payment.Cost: varies by county, state, & method. -
Obtaining a Social Security Card
Need a replacement card? Click here for information on the best way to request a free replacement card.
Have other documents? (US passport, driver's license or state photo ID): request a new card online here. Applicants must create an account and complete steps to verify their identity. The new card will arrive in the mail.
Don't have the documents listed above? Apply online OR go in person to your local social security administration office.
More on the documents needed to prove identity
For students under age 18: a parent must submit documents proving their identity either online or in person.
Wake County Social Security Administration Office: Wake Co. has just one social security administration office:
- SUITE 100 3315 POOLE RD RALEIGH, NC 27610.
- Appointments are required and can be made by calling 1-877-803-6311 and requesting an agent or making the appointment online.
