Where to get a Social Security card

You get a Social Security card from the Social Security Administration (SSA), which has local offices in every state. You cannot order one online or by mail for a first card — you must apply in person at an SSA office, bring original documents, and wait for the card to arrive by mail after approval. The SSA also accepts applications at some state motor vehicle departments and tribal identification offices, though availability varies by location.

The process takes roughly two to four weeks from the time you submit your application to when the card arrives. You do not need an appointment at most offices — you can walk in during business hours — but some locations now use an online scheduling system. Check your local office's website before you go to see whether you need to book a time slot.

Key Takeaways

  • You must apply for a first Social Security card in person at an SSA office, a state motor vehicle department, or a tribal ID office — there is no online or mail-only route.
  • Bring an original birth certificate, passport, or state ID, plus proof of current address such as a utility bill or lease, and your immigration documents if you were not born in the United States.
  • The card arrives by mail within two to four weeks; you do not need to pay any fee.
  • Some SSA offices now require you to book an appointment online, while others accept walk-ins; check your local office website to find out which system yours uses.
  • If you need a replacement card because yours was lost or stolen, you can order one by mail or through a limited online process if you meet certain age and citizenship requirements.

Documents you need to bring

The SSA requires three types of documents: proof of age, proof of identity, and proof of current address. For proof of age, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or state-issued ID. The document must be the original or a certified copy — a photocopy does not count.

For proof of identity, bring a state driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, the SSA has a list of other documents it will accept, including school IDs, medical records, and insurance policies, though you may need to bring more than one.

For proof of current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. The document must show your current address and be dated within the last 12 months. A cell phone bill counts. A credit card statement does not.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your immigration documents as well — your passport, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or green card. If you are applying on behalf of a child, bring the child's documents plus your own ID and proof that you are the parent or legal guardian.

How to find your local Social Security office

The SSA website has an office locator tool at ssa.gov. Enter your zip code and the tool will show you the nearest office, its hours, phone number, and whether it requires appointments. You can also call the SSA's national customer service line at 1-800-772-1213 to find your local office and ask about current wait times.

Some state motor vehicle departments and tribal identification offices also accept Social Security card applications. If you are renewing your driver's license or state ID, you can ask whether that office can process a Social Security card application at the same time. Not all locations offer this service, so call ahead to confirm.

What happens after you submit your application

After you submit your application, the SSA reviews your documents and verifies your information with the agency that issued your birth certificate or passport. This verification step usually takes one to two weeks. Once approved, the SSA mails your card to the address you provided on the application.

You do not need to do anything while you wait. The card arrives in a plain envelope with no tracking number. If you do not receive it within four weeks, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and provide your application date and the address where it was mailed. The SSA can check the status and remail the card if needed.

You do not receive a temporary card or number while you wait. If you need your Social Security number before the card arrives, you can ask the SSA office staff to write it down for you at the time you apply, or call the SSA later to request it.

Replacement cards and name changes

If your card was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can order a replacement. If you are age 18 or older, a U.S. citizen, and have a state ID or driver's license, you may be able to order a replacement online at ssa.gov without visiting an office. The online process is limited and does not work for everyone — the SSA website will tell you whether you are may be able to access when you try.

If you cannot order online, you can mail an application to your local SSA office or visit in person. By mail, include a completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card), a photocopy of your ID, and a photocopy of proof of current address. Mail it to the address listed on the SSA website for your state. Processing takes two to four weeks.

If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you need a new card with your new name. Bring your original Social Security card, proof of your legal name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and your ID to an SSA office. There is no fee, and the new card arrives within two to four weeks.

Special situations: Children and non-citizens

You can apply for a Social Security card for a newborn at the hospital when the baby is born. The hospital will give you a form to complete; you do not need to visit an SSA office. The card arrives by mail within two to four weeks. If you did not apply at the hospital, you can apply at an SSA office once the child has a birth certificate.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a Social Security card if you have a valid visa, employment authorization, or green card. Bring your passport and immigration documents to an SSA office. The rules vary depending on your immigration status — some visa holders can get a card, others cannot. Call the SSA before you visit to confirm that your status qualifies.

If you are in the United States without authorization, you cannot get a Social Security card. The SSA requires proof of legal immigration status, and there is no exception to this rule.

Fees and what to expect at the office

There is no fee to apply for a Social Security card. The SSA does not charge for first cards, replacements, or name changes.

When you arrive at the office, check in at the front desk and take a number. Wait times vary by location and time of day — offices are usually less busy early in the morning and on weekdays. You will be called to a window where an SSA staff member will review your documents, ask you questions to verify your identity, and have you sign the application form. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Bring all your original documents. Do not send originals by mail — the SSA will not return them, and you may need them for other purposes. If you mail an application, send photocopies only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card without a birth certificate?

No, you need an original or certified birth certificate, passport, or state ID as proof of age. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. That process can take several weeks, so plan ahead.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them?

You can order replacement documents from the agencies that issued them — a new birth certificate from your state's vital records office, a new passport from the U.S. State Department, or a new driver's license from your state motor vehicle department. Once you have at least one of these, you can apply for a Social Security card.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

It depends on your local office. Some offices accept walk-ins during all hours; others require appointments. Check your local SSA office website or call 1-800-772-1213 to find out. If appointments are required and none are available, you may be able to walk in during a specific time window, usually early morning.

How long does it really take to get the card in the mail?

The SSA says two to four weeks. Most cards arrive within that window, but delays happen if documents are mislaid or if the SSA needs to verify information with another agency. If you have not received your card after four weeks, contact the SSA to check the status.

Can someone else pick up my card from the office?

No. Social Security cards are mailed to the address you provide on the application. They are not held at the office for pickup. If you need to change the mailing address after you apply, call the SSA right away.