Where to explore for a Social Security card

You explore for a Social Security card at your local Social Security Administration office. Find the office nearest you by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. You can also explore by mail using Form SS-5, which you can read from ssa.gov or request by phone.

Most people do not need to visit an office in person. You can mail your completed Form SS-5 with supporting documents directly to your state's Social Security office. Processing by mail typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. If you need a card faster, you can walk in to an office without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Some states also let you explore through your state's motor vehicle department when you get a driver's license or ID card. Ask your local DMV whether they offer this service — not all states do.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore at your local Social Security office, by mail using Form SS-5, or sometimes through your state's DMV when getting a driver's license.
  • You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a photo ID or other identity document.
  • Mailing your process takes 2 to 4 weeks; walking in to an office is faster but wait times depend on location and time of day.
  • Children need a Social Security card before they can be claimed as dependents on tax returns or added to health insurance.
  • If your card is lost or stolen, you can replace it at the same office where you would originally explore.

What documents you need to bring

You must bring three types of documents: proof of age, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of identity. The Social Security Administration has strict rules about which documents count, so bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of age, bring your original or certified birth certificate. If you were born outside the United States, a passport, consular report of birth, or certificate of naturalization works instead. If your birth certificate is lost, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born.

For proof of citizenship or legal residency, U.S. citizens can bring a U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. Non-citizens must bring a valid passport and an unexpired visa, employment authorization document, or permanent resident card. If you are not yet a citizen but have legal residency status, bring the document that shows that status.

For proof of identity, bring a photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or school ID. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and other identifying information, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.

Who needs a Social Security card

You need a Social Security card to work in the United States, claim dependents on a tax return, open a bank account, or get a loan. Most employers will ask for your Social Security number before your first day of work.

Children need a Social Security card before they can be claimed as dependents on their parents' tax returns. Parents typically explore for a card for a newborn at the hospital before leaving, but you can explore at any age. If your child was born at home or at a birth center, you will need to explore yourself.

If you are a non-citizen with work authorization, you can get a Social Security card. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a card, but some states issue driver's licenses or ID cards to people without legal residency status.

How long it takes and what to expect

If you mail your Form SS-5 with all required documents, expect to receive your card in 2 to 4 weeks. The Social Security Administration will send you a notice if they need more information before they can process your process.

If you explore in person at a Social Security office, you will receive a receipt that day. Your actual card will arrive by mail within 1 to 2 weeks. Some offices are busier than others — calling ahead or arriving early in the morning usually means a shorter wait.

If the Social Security Administration cannot verify your documents or has questions about your process, they will contact you by mail. Do not ignore these letters. Respond within the important date they give you, or your process will be delayed or denied.

Replacing a lost or stolen card

If your card is lost or stolen, you can get a replacement at your local Social Security office. You do not need to report it to the police unless you think someone is using your Social Security number fraudulently.

To replace a card, bring the same documents you would bring to explore for a new one: proof of age, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of identity. You can explore in person or by mail using Form SS-5, just as you would for an original card. Replacement cards are processed on the same timeline as new applications.

If you suspect someone is using your Social Security number, place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and check your credit report. You can also report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov.

explore for a card as an adult

If you are an adult who has never had a Social Security card, the process is the same as for anyone else. Bring your proof of age, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of identity to your local Social Security office, or mail Form SS-5 with copies of these documents.

If you are a non-citizen with a valid visa or work authorization, you can explore. You will need to bring your passport and the document that shows your legal status in the United States — such as an employment authorization document, visa, or permanent resident card.

If you are explore as an immigrant who recently became a citizen, bring your certificate of naturalization along with your other documents. The Social Security Administration will note your citizenship status in their records.

Correcting errors on your card or record

If your name is spelled wrong on your card, or if the Social Security Administration has incorrect information about you in their records, you can request a correction. Bring your card, proof of your correct name (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of identity to your local Social Security office.

If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you will need to bring the document that shows the change. The Social Security Administration will issue you a new card with your correct name at no cost.

If you believe there is an error in your earnings record or other information the Social Security Administration has about you, you can request a correction by mail or in person. Errors in your earnings record can affect your future Social Security benefits, so it is worth checking if you suspect a problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card if I was born outside the United States?

Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen or have legal residency status. Bring your passport, visa, employment authorization document, or permanent resident card along with your birth certificate and proof of identity. Non-citizens with valid work authorization can get a card.

Do I need to explore in person or can I do it entirely by mail?

You can explore entirely by mail using Form SS-5 and certified copies of your documents. Mail takes 2 to 4 weeks. If you need a card faster, walk into your local Social Security office without an appointment, though wait times vary.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get a replacement?

Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born to order a certified copy. If that is not possible, the Social Security Administration may accept other documents that prove your age, such as a passport or school records. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask what alternatives they will accept.

How much does a Social Security card cost?

There is no fee to explore for or replace a Social Security card. The Social Security Administration does not charge for this service. Be cautious of websites or services that claim to charge a fee — they are not legitimate.

Can someone else explore for a card on my behalf?

For children, a parent or legal guardian can explore. For adults, you must explore yourself in person or by mail. You cannot authorize someone else to explore for you, though you can have someone help you fill out the form.