Documents you must bring to apply

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. What counts as proof depends on which documents you have — there is no single required document for each category.

For age, the SSA accepts a birth certificate, passport, or driver's license. For identity, you can use a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or school ID. For citizenship or immigration status, a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization works if you are a citizen. If you are not a citizen, you will need your immigration documents — a green card, work permit (Employment Authorization Document), visa, or I-94 arrival record.

Original documents or certified copies are required. Photocopies alone will not be accepted. If your documents are in another language, bring the original plus an English translation certified by an official translator.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status — the SSA will not process your request without all three categories.
  • A birth certificate, passport, or driver's license can serve as proof of age, but you need the original or a certified copy.
  • You can apply in person at your local Social Security office, by mail if you are applying for your first card as a child, or online if you meet specific requirements.
  • Processing times vary: in-person applications usually take one to two weeks, while mail applications can take three to four weeks.
  • If you have changed your name, you will need to bring a document proving the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Where and how to apply

The most direct route is to visit your local Social Security office in person. You can find the office nearest you on the SSA website by entering your zip code. Walk-in service is available, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Some offices accept appointments; calling ahead to schedule one can reduce your wait.

If you are applying for your first card as a child under 18, you may be able to apply by mail instead. You will need to complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card), include your documents, and mail the package to your local Social Security office. The SSA website lists the mailing address for each state.

If you are age 18 or older and have a My Social Security account, you may be able to apply online through ssa.gov. This option is not available in all states and has specific requirements — the SSA website will tell you whether you are may be able to access before you start.

Completing the application form

You will need to fill out Form SS-5, the official Application for a Social Security Card. The form is straightforward: it asks for your name, date of birth, place of birth, parents' names (if you are under 18), citizenship status, and reason for applying (new card, replacement, or name change).

If you are applying in person, you can complete the form at the office. If you are applying by mail, download the form from ssa.gov, print it, and fill it out by hand before mailing. Do not submit a blank form or one filled out in pencil — the SSA requires pen and legible handwriting.

You will also need to sign the form in front of a Social Security representative if you are applying in person, or have your signature notarized if you are applying by mail. A parent or legal guardian must sign if you are under 18.

Timeline and what to expect after you apply

In-person applications usually result in a card arriving by mail within one to two weeks. Mail applications typically take three to four weeks. The SSA will mail your card to the address you provide on the form — it does not issue cards on the spot.

You will receive a receipt when you apply in person. Keep this receipt until your card arrives; it serves as proof that you have applied if you need to show something to an employer or school before the physical card reaches you.

If your card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office. Bring your receipt and any other documentation you have. The office can check the status of your application and reissue the card if it was lost in the mail.

Special situations: name changes, replacements, and corrections

If you have changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you can update your Social Security card at the same time you apply. Bring the document proving the legal change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your other required documents.

If your card was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement. You will still need to bring proof of age, identity, and citizenship, but you do not need to provide a new reason for applying. There is no fee for a replacement card.

If there is an error on your card — a misspelled name, wrong date of birth, or incorrect citizenship status — contact your local Social Security office. Bring documents that prove what the correct information should be. The SSA will issue a corrected card at no charge.

Fees and processing costs

There is no fee to get a Social Security card. The SSA does not charge for first-time applications, replacements, or corrections. If someone offers to charge you for a Social Security card, they are committing fraud — report them to the SSA Office of Inspector General or your state's attorney general.

Some third-party services advertise that they can speed up the process or handle the application for you. These services charge fees and do not provide any advantage over applying directly to the SSA. You can apply for free at your local office or online.

Documents to bring if you are not a U.S. citizen

Non-citizens can get a Social Security card if they have work authorization or a visa that allows them to work in the United States. Bring your original immigration documents — your green card, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), visa, or I-94 arrival record — along with proof of age and identity.

If your immigration status has changed or your documents have expired, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before applying for a Social Security card. The SSA will verify your status with USCIS, and if your documents are no longer valid, your application will be delayed or denied.

Temporary visa holders (such as students on F-1 visas) generally cannot get a Social Security card unless they also have work authorization. Check with your school's international student office or the SSA to confirm whether you are may be able to access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Social Security card online?

You can apply online through ssa.gov if you are age 18 or older, have a state-issued ID, and live in a state where online applications are available. Not all states offer this option. The SSA website will tell you whether you are may be able to access before you begin the application.

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

In-person applications usually take one to two weeks. Mail applications take three to four weeks. Times vary by location and how busy your local office is. The SSA will mail your card to the address you provide — it does not issue cards immediately.

What if I lost my birth certificate?

You can request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. Contact your state's health department for instructions. While you wait for the birth certificate, you may be able to use a passport or driver's license as proof of age instead.

Do I need a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You need a Social Security card only if you work in the United States or receive certain benefits. Non-citizens with work authorization can get a card. If you do not work and do not receive benefits, you do not need one.

What if my name is different on my documents?

Bring all documents that show your name, along with proof of any legal name changes (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The SSA will use the documents to determine which name should appear on your card. If your documents conflict, the office may ask for additional proof.