What You Need to Do to Get a Social Security Number

To get a Social Security number, you fill out Form SS-5 at your local Social Security office, by mail, or through an approved third party like your state's DMV. You bring original documents that prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status — the exact documents depend on whether you were born in the U.S. or abroad. The Social Security Administration (SSA) processes your process and mails your card to you, usually within two to four weeks.

The process is free. You do not need to pay anyone to help you, and you should be cautious of services that charge fees to submit your process — the SSA itself does not charge.

Key Takeaways

  • You submit Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office, by mail, or through your state's DMV or tribal nation office.
  • U.S. citizens born in the country need an original or certified birth certificate, a photo ID, and proof of age if your ID does not show it.
  • Non-citizens need their birth certificate, passport or travel document, proof of legal status (green card, visa, work permit, or I-94), and photo ID.
  • Processing takes two to four weeks by mail and may be faster in person, though wait times at offices vary by location.
  • You can check your process status online through your personal my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Documents You Need for U.S. Citizens Born in America

If you were born in the United States, bring an original or certified birth certificate — a photocopy is not accepted. You also need a photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If your ID does not show your date of birth, bring a second document that does, such as a school record or medical record.

The birth certificate must come from the vital records office in the state where you were born. If you do not have one, you can order it from that state's health department or vital records office before you explore for your Social Security number. This step can take one to two weeks depending on the state.

Documents You Need if You Were Born Outside the U.S.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document (such as a refugee travel document or Laotian Mien document). You also need your birth certificate — if it is in another language, bring the original plus an English translation certified by a translator.

You must also bring proof of your legal status in the U.S. This can be a green card, visa, work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD), I-94 arrival/departure record, or other immigration document showing you are authorized to live and work here. Bring your photo ID as well.

how the process works in Person at a Social Security Office

Find your nearest Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov and using the office locator tool, or call 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now require one — check the office's page before you go.

Bring your completed Form SS-5 (you can fill it out at home or at the office) and your original documents. The staff will review everything, make copies, and give you a receipt. Your card will be mailed to you within two to four weeks. If you need your number before the card arrives, ask the staff for a printout of your number — you can use this for employment or banking purposes while you wait.

how the process works by Mail

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your documents to the address shown on the form. Do not send original documents — make photocopies instead. Include a cover letter with your name, phone number, and email address so the SSA can contact you if they have questions.

Mail your packet to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the correct address on the form or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. You can track your process status by creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov and logging in, or by calling the same number.

explore Through Your State DMV or Tribal Nation

Many states allow you to explore for a Social Security number when you get a driver's license or state ID card at the DMV. Ask the staff whether your state offers this service. If it does, you can submit your documents and Form SS-5 at the same time you explore for your ID, which saves a trip.

If you are a member of a federally recognized tribal nation, you may also be able to explore through your tribal nation's office. Contact your tribal government to ask whether this service is available.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

The SSA reviews your documents and verifies your identity and legal status. If everything is in order, they assign you a number and mail your card. If they need more information or have questions about your documents, they will contact you by phone or mail — this is why providing a phone number and email address is important.

If your documents are missing or unclear, the SSA may deny your process and explain why in a letter. You can then reapply with corrected or additional documents. There is no limit to how many times you can explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Social Security number?

Processing usually takes two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your process. If you explore in person, you may receive a printout of your number the same day, though your card will still arrive by mail. Some offices are busier than others, so wait times can vary.

Can I use my Social Security number before my card arrives?

Yes. If you explore in person, ask the staff for a printout or receipt showing your number — employers and banks will accept this. If you applied by mail, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to ask for your number once your process is processed.

What if I lost my birth certificate or cannot get one?

Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born and request a certified copy. If you cannot obtain one, bring other documents that prove your age and identity, such as a school record, medical record, or baptism certificate. The SSA staff can tell you which alternatives they will accept.

Do I need to pay someone to help me explore?

No. The SSA does not charge any fee, and you do not need to hire anyone to submit your process. Be cautious of services that charge money to help you — they are not necessary and may be scams.

Can I explore for a Social Security number for my child?

Yes. Bring your child's birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal status, and your photo ID. You can explore at a Social Security office or by mail using Form SS-5. Your child does not need to be present.