Without a photo ID, people are unable to obtain a job, secure housing, open a bank account, enroll their kids in school, vote, and experience other life-stabilizing goals.
Main Street Ministries’ Operation ID program helps clients gather supporting documents, complete necessary forms, and cover the costs of obtaining an official Texas state-issued ID and related documentation. The program also assists with securing birth certificates —whether in Texas, out of state, U.S. territories, or for military births abroad — and provides basic resource navigation to support clients through the process.
NOTE: Operation ID is a referral based program only for clients referred by approved agencies.
They say “a little help goes a long way,” and I couldn’t agree more. After losing my dad and my job, things were really tough. I reached out for help and your team guided me through getting my birth certificate and driver’s license. My niece also received help that same day, which made it even more special. Because of your support, we both walked away with what we needed — and I also found amazing resources for job opportunities and education programs to help me get back on my feet. You’ve truly been a one-stop shop for hope and support, and I’m so thankful for everything you do.
Main Street Ministries’ Operation ID program helps clients gather supporting documents, complete necessary forms, and cover the costs of obtaining an official Texas state-issued ID and related documentation. The program also assists with securing birth certificates —whether in Texas, out of state, U.S. territories, or for military births abroad — and provides basic resource navigation to support clients through the process.
No. Operation ID is a referral-based program. We do not take appointments or walk ups without referrals. Clients must be actively receiving services from one of our partner agencies. That agency will provide a referral to Operation ID.
You must first be connected with a partner agency that is already providing services to you (such as housing, employment, or case management). Once you become a client, they can submit a referral to Operation ID on your behalf.
No. Operation ID helps you gather the documents and funding needed to obtain an ID, but you are responsible for going to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to complete the process. Texas DPS website
No. Only clients with a valid referral from one of our partner agencies are eligible for services. Without a referral, you will be redirected to connect with a partner agency first.
We can assist with obtaining birth certificates from all 50 states, U.S. territories, and military births abroad. Your case manager will note this on your referral form.
No. We understand this is a concern for some clients. Operation ID has resources in place to prevent this from happening and to ensure your safety while accessing services.
If you need support beyond identification (such as housing, food, or employment), we encourage you to: Talk with your partner agency case manager or contact 211 to get connected with resources near you.
