Proof of Identity

• A person applying for a Social Security number must show proof of his identity. Documents proving identity must include the person’s name as well as his age or date of birth. Legitimate documents include a U.S. passport, driver’s license, or a state issued identification card. Those who don’t have one of these may be able to provide a health insurance card or a military, employee or school ID card.
  
  

Proof of Age and Citizenship

• An original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate can be used to show proof of age and proof of U.S. citizenship. A U.S. passport can also serve as proof of citizenship. A person born in a foreign country who is now a U.S. citizen may provide a U.S. passport, certificate of citizenship or a certificate of naturalization.
  
  

Child Under 12

• Parents of a newborn may apply for a social security number at the hospital at the time of birth. If they apply for a birth certificate at a later date, they must provide a birth certificate for the child and proof of identity. Proof of identity may include a hospital record, religious record, school record, adoption decree or a school ID card. The parent must also provide proof of her own identity.
  
  

Immigrants

• If the Department of Homeland Security has given a noncitizen permission to work, that person can apply for a Social Security number. A person without permission to work may request a social security number if Federal law requires it to provide benefits or services, or state law requires it to provide assistance for which he has pre-qualified. Immigrants must provide their foreign birth certificate along with a U.S. Immigration document such as a work permit, arrival/departure record or foreign passport. International or exchange students may be asked to provide documents indicating student status.