How to request a Social Security card
You can request a Social Security card by mail, in person, or online depending on your situation and which state you live in. The Social Security Administration (SSA) handles all requests, and the process is free. Most people need an original card when they turn 18, after a name change, or to replace a lost or stolen card. The fastest route is usually online through ssa.gov if you have a state ID or driver's license, but not all states participate yet.
If you're requesting your first card as a minor, a parent or guardian must explore on your behalf in person at a local Social Security office. If you're an adult, you can start online, by mail, or walk into an office. The card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after your process is processed.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a card online through ssa.gov if you have a state ID or driver's license and live in a participating state, which is the fastest method.
- In-person requests at a local Social Security office require proof of identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status, and take about 15 minutes.
- Mail requests require the same documents as in-person requests plus a completed Form SS-5, and take longer but work in all states.
- First-time cards for minors must be requested by a parent or guardian in person with the child's birth certificate and proof of the parent's identity.
- Replacement cards for lost, stolen, or damaged cards follow the same process as original requests and are also free.
Request online through ssa.gov
The online option is available in most states and is the quickest way to get a card. You'll need a state-issued ID or driver's license, a Social Security number (if you already have one), and an email address. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and create a my Social Security account if you don't have one, then select "Request a replacement Social Security card" from the menu.
The online form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and the reason you need the card. You'll upload a photo of your ID, and the SSA will verify your information electronically. Once approved, your card ships to the address on file. Not all states participate in online requests yet — the SSA website shows which ones do when you start the process.
Request in person at a Social Security office
Walk into your local Social Security office with the required documents and you can complete the request the same day. You'll need to bring proof of identity (a driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of age (a birth certificate or passport), and proof of citizenship or immigration status (a birth certificate, passport, or immigration document). Fill out Form SS-5 at the office or bring it completed from home.
Bring the originals of these documents — the SSA will not accept photocopies. If you don't have all three types of proof, ask the office staff which alternatives they accept before you go. Wait times vary by location and time of day; calling ahead or checking ssa.gov for your local office's hours can save you a trip.
Request by mail
read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your proof documents to the address listed on the form. Make photocopies of your identity document, age proof, and citizenship proof — do not send originals. Include a cover letter with your name and phone number so the SSA can contact you if there are questions.
Mail requests take longer than in-person or online requests, typically 2 to 3 weeks after the SSA receives your envelope. Send your package by certified mail so you have proof of delivery. The SSA will mail your card to the address you list on Form SS-5 once your request is processed.
What documents you need
| Document Type | What Counts | Original or Copy |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID | Original for in-person; copy for mail |
| Proof of Age | Birth certificate, passport, or adoption papers | Original for in-person; copy for mail |
| Proof of Citizenship or Immigration Status | Birth certificate, passport, visa, green card, or employment authorization document | Original for in-person; copy for mail |
If you don't have a state ID or driver's license yet, a passport works for both identity and age proof. If you're explore for a replacement card and already have a Social Security number, you may not need to prove citizenship again — call your local office to ask.
Requesting a card for a minor
A parent or legal guardian must request the card in person at a Social Security office on behalf of a child under 18. Bring the child's birth certificate, the parent's or guardian's proof of identity, and proof that you are the parent or guardian (the birth certificate usually serves this purpose). The child does not need to be present, though some offices prefer it.
You'll fill out Form SS-5 and provide the child's information. The card will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. If the child's name appears on the birth certificate differently than you want it on the card, bring documentation of the legal name change.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card
The process to replace a card is the same as requesting an original card — you'll use the same online form, mail the same documents, or visit an office in person. You don't need to report a lost card to the SSA first, though you may want to monitor your credit if you're concerned about identity theft. If your card is damaged but still readable, you can still use it while you wait for a replacement.
You can request up to three replacement cards in a year and nine in a lifetime, so there's no penalty for losing one. If you lose cards frequently, consider keeping a photo of your card in a find location at home so you have the number if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Social Security card?
Online and in-person requests typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Mail requests take 2 to 3 weeks after the SSA receives your envelope. Delays can happen if documents are missing or unclear, so double-check your process before you submit it.
Can I use a temporary Social Security card while I wait?
The SSA no longer issues temporary cards. If you need your number before the card arrives, you can call your local Social Security office and they'll provide it over the phone. Write it down and keep it safe until your card arrives.
What if I don't have a birth certificate?
Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born and order a certified copy. This can take several weeks. If you have a passport, it may work as proof of both age and citizenship instead, so ask your local Social Security office first.
Do I need to bring my child to the office to request their first card?
No, a parent or guardian can request the card without the child present. Some offices prefer to see the child, so call ahead to ask. Either way, you'll need the child's birth certificate and your proof of identity.
What if I changed my name?
Request a replacement card and bring proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will issue a new card with your updated name at no cost.