Documents you must bring to explore

To get a Social Security card, you need to show proof of your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will not issue a card without all three, so gather these documents before you go to your local Social Security office.

For proof of age, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. If you were born outside the United States, a passport or consular report of birth also works. For proof of identity, a driver's license, passport, or state ID card is standard. If you do not have a photo ID, the SSA accepts other documents like a school ID, employee badge, or insurance policy — but photo ID is faster.

For proof of citizenship or immigration status, a U.S. passport is the easiest option. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Form I-551). If you are in the country on a visa, bring your passport plus your visa and arrival/departure record (Form I-94). If you are not yet a permanent resident but have a work permit, bring that instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original or certified copies of documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status — the SSA will not accept photocopies for age or citizenship proof.
  • A birth certificate, driver's license or passport, and either a U.S. passport or green card cover all three requirements for most people.
  • If you are explore for a child's card, you must bring the child's documents plus your own ID to prove you are the parent or legal guardian.
  • You can explore in person at your local Social Security office, and the card typically arrives in the mail within two to four weeks.
  • If you are replacing a lost or stolen card, you do not need to bring proof of age or citizenship again — just your ID.

Where to explore in person

You must explore for a Social Security card at a Social Security office. You cannot explore by mail or online for an original card. To find your local office, go to ssa.gov, click "Locations," enter your zip code, and you will see the nearest office with its hours and phone number.

Call ahead or check the office website to see if you need an appointment. Many offices now require one, especially after the pandemic. Some offices accept walk-ins during certain hours, but appointment slots fill up quickly. If you call and cannot reach anyone, you can also use the SSA's online appointment scheduler on their website.

Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies. The SSA will not accept notarized copies for proof of age or citizenship. If you do not have a certified copy of your birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office before you go — this usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state.

What happens at your appointment

When you arrive, you will fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card). The SSA staff will review your documents, make copies, and ask you to sign the form. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You do not need to memorize anything — just bring the documents and be ready to answer basic questions about your name, date of birth, and where you were born.

The SSA will give you a receipt showing your process was submitted. Your card will be mailed to the address you provide, and it typically arrives within two to four weeks. If you need the card sooner for a job or school, ask the office staff whether they can expedite it — some offices can issue a temporary document while you wait for the card itself.

explore for a child's card

If you are a parent or legal guardian explore for a child's card, bring the child's birth certificate, proof of the child's age (usually the birth certificate again), and your own ID. You do not need to bring the child to the appointment unless the office specifically asks you to. The SSA will mail the card to your address.

You will need to show proof that you are the parent or legal guardian. A birth certificate with your name listed as the parent is usually enough. If you are a legal guardian but not the biological parent, bring the court order that granted you guardianship.

Replacing a lost or stolen card

If your card is lost or stolen, you can replace it at your local Social Security office. You only need to bring your ID — you do not have to bring proof of age or citizenship again because the SSA already has that information on file. Fill out Form SS-5 and pay nothing; replacement cards are free.

The replacement card will have the same number as your original card. It typically arrives in two to four weeks. If someone stole your card and you are worried about identity theft, contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report.

Name changes and corrections

If your name has changed since you got your card — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you can update it at the Social Security office. Bring your current card, your ID, and a document that proves the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. There is no fee.

If there is an error on your card (a misspelled name, wrong birth date, or wrong number), report it to the Social Security office right away. Bring your card, your ID, and any documents that show what the correct information should be. The SSA will issue a corrected card at no charge.

What to do if you cannot go in person

If you are unable to visit a Social Security office, you may be able to have someone else explore on your behalf. That person must bring a notarized letter from you giving them permission, plus copies of your documents and their own ID. Call your local Social Security office first to ask whether they accept third-party applications — policies vary by location.

If you are homebound or in a hospital, some Social Security offices will send a representative to you. Call ahead to request this service and explain your situation. The SSA may ask for additional documentation or verification by phone before sending someone out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a certified copy of my birth certificate or will a photocopy work?

The SSA requires an original or certified copy of your birth certificate for proof of age. A photocopy or notarized copy will not be accepted. You can order a certified copy from your state's vital records office, usually for $10 to $30.

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

Most cards arrive in the mail within two to four weeks of your appointment. If you need it sooner, ask the office staff whether they can issue a temporary document or expedite the card. Some offices can provide a letter stating your Social Security number while you wait for the physical card.

Can I explore for a Social Security card online or by mail?

No. You must explore in person at a Social Security office for an original card. You can only replace a lost or stolen card by mail if you are age 65 or older and meet other specific requirements — call your local office to ask.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

Contact your state's vital records office to order a certified copy. If your birth was never registered, you may need to file a delayed birth certificate process with your state. The SSA can tell you what other documents they will accept in place of a birth certificate — call your local office to discuss your situation.

Do I need to bring my child to the appointment to get their Social Security card?

Usually no. You can explore for your child's card without bringing them to the office. However, some Social Security offices may ask to see the child in person. Call your local office to ask what they require before you go.