You cannot get a Social Security card entirely online, but you can start the process from home

The Social Security Administration does not offer a fully online application for a new Social Security card. However, you can request one by mail using Form SS-5, which you can download and print from ssa.gov, or you can fill it out in person at your local Social Security office. If you need a replacement card, a name change card, or your first card, the process is the same: complete the form, gather the required documents, and either mail the package or hand-deliver it.

The mailed route typically takes 7 to 10 business days from the time the Social Security Administration receives your documents. In-person applications at a Social Security office can sometimes be faster, though wait times vary by location. You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of age — the exact documents accepted depend on which category you fall into.

Key Takeaways

  • Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, complete it, and mail it with required documents to your regional Social Security office, or bring everything in person.
  • You must provide an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, passport, or other citizenship document; a photo ID; and proof of age if your ID does not show your date of birth.
  • Processing takes 7 to 10 business days by mail, though some offices can issue a card the same day if you apply in person and all documents are correct.
  • If you have changed your name, you will need to provide the legal document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • You can find your regional Social Security office address and current processing times on ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

What documents you need to bring or mail

The Social Security Administration requires three categories of proof: identity, citizenship or legal residency status, and age. For identity, you can use a state driver's license, passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. If you do not have a photo ID, you can use a combination of documents such as a school ID, employee badge, and a utility bill or bank statement with your name and address.

For citizenship or legal residency, U.S. citizens must provide an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen but have legal residency status, you will need your Permanent Resident Card (green card), Employment Authorization Document, or visa paired with an I-94 arrival/departure record. Copies are not accepted for citizenship documents — they must be originals or certified.

For age, if your photo ID already shows your date of birth, you do not need a separate age document. If it does not, bring a birth certificate, passport, or baptism record. All documents should be current and not expired, except birth certificates and citizenship papers, which do not expire.

How to complete Form SS-5

Form SS-5 is the official application for a Social Security card. You can download it from ssa.gov by searching "Form SS-5" or visiting the Social Security card page directly. Print the form and complete it by hand in black or blue ink — do not use pencil. The form asks for your full legal name, date of birth, place of birth, mother's maiden name, and current address.

You will also indicate whether you are applying for a new card, a replacement card (if yours was lost or stolen), or a name change card. Sign and date the form yourself; do not have someone else sign it for you. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign as well. Once completed, gather your documents and either mail the package or bring it to your local Social Security office.

Mailing your application

Find your regional Social Security office address on ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Mail your completed Form SS-5 along with original or certified copies of your documents to that office. Do not mail originals of citizenship documents if you can avoid it — bring them in person instead, or ask the Social Security office whether they will accept certified copies by mail in your case.

Include a cover letter with your name and phone number so the office can contact you if there are questions. Mail everything together in one envelope. Processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the office receives your package. You can check the status of your application by calling 1-800-772-1213 and providing your Social Security number or date of birth.

Applying in person at a Social Security office

Bring your completed Form SS-5 and all required documents to your local Social Security office. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but you can schedule one online or by phone to reduce wait time. Bring originals of all documents — the office will review them and return them to you. In-person applications are often processed faster than mailed ones; some offices can issue a card the same day if everything is in order.

Wait times vary widely by location and time of day. Offices are typically less crowded early in the morning and mid-week. If you cannot visit in person, mailing your application is the standard alternative. Some offices also offer video appointment options during certain hours — ask when you call or check ssa.gov for your local office's current offerings.

Name changes and replacement cards

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you will need to provide the legal document that proves the change. For marriage, bring an original or certified marriage certificate. For divorce, bring a certified divorce decree or final judgment. For a court-ordered name change, bring the court order. You will still complete Form SS-5 and provide all other required documents.

If your card was lost or stolen, you do not need to file a police report to request a replacement, though you may want to for your own records. Complete Form SS-5, check the box for "replacement card," and provide your documents as usual. The replacement card will have the same Social Security number as your original.

What to do if documents are missing or incomplete

If you do not have an original birth certificate or citizenship document, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Birth certificates can usually be ordered online or by mail from your state's health department. The process takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the state. If you were born outside the United States, contact the embassy or consulate of your birth country.

If you cannot obtain a required document, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 and explain your situation. In some cases, the office can accept alternative documents or a notarized statement explaining why the original is unavailable. Do not mail an incomplete application — call first to ask what the office can work with in your specific case.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days from the date your regional office receives your completed Form SS-5 and documents. Mailing time is not included in this estimate, so add several days for postal delivery in both directions. You can check the status of your application by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Can I use a copy of my birth certificate instead of an original?

No. The Social Security Administration requires an original or certified copy of your birth certificate for citizenship proof. A certified copy is one issued by the vital records office in the state where you were born and bears an official seal. Regular photocopies are not accepted. You can order a certified copy from your state's health department.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

You can use a combination of non-photo documents to prove identity, such as a school ID, employee badge, utility bill, bank statement, or insurance policy. The documents must show your name and be current. Bring at least two pieces together. Call your local Social Security office before you visit to confirm which combination they will accept.

Do I need an appointment to apply in person?

Most Social Security offices do not require an appointment, but you can schedule one online or by phone to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are usually served on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to find your local office and check whether appointments are available in your area.

Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?

Yes, if you authorize them in writing. Include a signed note with your application stating who is authorized to pick up the card and their relationship to you. The person picking it up should bring a photo ID. Alternatively, the card will be mailed to the address you provide on Form SS-5.