Verified resources for California: getting an ID, getting vital records, clearing your record, and finding a job. We are starting with a small number of states so we can check each resource carefully; more states are coming.
Getting an ID or driver’s license
- California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (dmv.ca.gov): apply for or renew a California driver license or ID card, find a DMV field office, and see what documents you need to bring.
Getting a birth certificate or other vital records
- California Department of Public Health, Vital Records (cdph.ca.gov, 916-558-1784): order a certified copy of a California birth, death, marriage, or divorce record.
Clearing or reducing the impact of a criminal record
- California Courts Self-Help Guide, Clean Your Record (selfhelp.courts.ca.gov): official state guide to reducing the impact of a California criminal record. California does not have true expungement, but this guide walks you through what options may be available for your situation, and can connect you to legal help.
Finding a job
- CalJOBS (caljobs.ca.gov): California’s state job-search site, run by the Employment Development Department. Search openings, and use the American Job Center Finder to get free in-person help near you.
- CDCR Division of Rehabilitative Programs, Post-Release Programs (cdcr.ca.gov): for people currently on active parole supervision, free employment readiness services, vocational training, and transitional housing options through residential, outpatient, and drop-in programs. Ask your parole agent about referrals.
Offices, phone numbers, and requirements change. Call ahead to confirm what is currently needed before you go. If something here is wrong or out of date, please let us know.