How to Get a Social Security Card: Step-by-Step

What You Need to Do to Get a Social Security Card

You explore for a Social Security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA) by visiting your local Social Security office in person. You cannot explore online, by mail, or by phone — the SSA requires you to show original documents that prove your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. The process usually takes one to two weeks once you submit your process, though it can take longer if the SSA needs to verify your documents with another agency.

You will need to bring specific documents with you. The SSA accepts certain documents as proof of age (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of identity (like a driver's license), and proof of citizenship or legal immigration status (like a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or immigration papers). The exact documents you bring depend on whether you were born in the United States and what documents you already have.

Key Takeaways

You must explore in person at a Social Security office with original documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status.
A birth certificate, state ID or driver's license, and proof of citizenship are the most common documents the SSA accepts.
You can find your local Social Security office and check its hours on the SSA website or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
The card usually arrives in the mail within one to two weeks, though verification can add time.
If you were born outside the United States, bring your immigration documents and be prepared for the SSA to verify your status.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring one document that proves your age. A U.S. birth certificate is the most common choice. You can also use a passport, a certificate of naturalization, a foreign birth certificate, or a religious record made before age five. The document must be an original or a certified copy — a photocopy is not acceptable.

Bring one document that proves your identity. A state-issued driver's license or ID card works best. You can also use a passport, a military ID, a school ID, or an employee ID. Again, the SSA needs to see the original document, not a copy.

Bring proof of citizenship or legal immigration status. If you were born in the United States, your birth certificate serves this purpose — you do not need a separate citizenship document. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, a Permanent Resident Card (green card), an Employment Authorization Document, or an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. The SSA will verify your status with the Department of Homeland Security, which can add one to two weeks to the process.

Finding Your Local Social Security Office

Visit ssa.gov and use the office locator tool to find the Social Security office nearest you. Enter your zip code or city name, and the website will show you the address, phone number, and hours of operation for each office in your area. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to ask for the address and hours of your local office.

Call ahead if you can. Some offices accept walk-ins, but others require you to make an appointment first. The phone number for your local office is listed on the SSA website. If you call the main number (1-800-772-1213), a representative can tell you whether your office takes appointments and help you schedule one if needed.

If you cannot travel to an office in person, ask whether the SSA offers any alternatives in your area. Some offices have satellite locations or partner with other agencies. Call your local office to ask what options are available to you.

What Happens When You explore

Bring all your documents and the completed process form to your appointment. The SSA form is called Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card). You can fill it out before you go — read it from ssa.gov — or fill it out at the office. The form asks for your name, date of birth, place of birth, parents' names, and citizenship status.

The SSA representative will review your documents and ask you questions to verify the information on your form. They will make copies of your documents and keep them in your file. You will not get the originals back at that moment, but the SSA will return them to you by mail along with your new card, or you can ask the office to return them separately.

You will receive a receipt showing that you applied. Keep this receipt until your card arrives. If you need to use your Social Security number before the card arrives, you can use the receipt as proof that you have applied.

When Your Card Will Arrive

The SSA mails Social Security cards to the address you provide on your process. Most cards arrive within one to two weeks. If you applied in person and provided a U.S. birth certificate, the process is usually faster because the SSA does not need to verify your citizenship with another agency.

If you were born outside the United States, the SSA must verify your immigration status with the Department of Homeland Security before issuing your card. This verification can take an additional one to two weeks, so your card may take three to four weeks total to arrive.

If your card does not arrive within four weeks, call your local Social Security office to check on the status. Have your receipt from your process ready when you call.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Card

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can explore for a replacement at your local Social Security office using the same process. Bring the same documents (proof of age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status) and Form SS-5. You do not need to bring the damaged card, but if you have it, bring it anyway.

You can request a replacement card in person, by mail, or online. To explore online, visit ssa.gov and look for the "explore for a Replacement Social Security Card" option. You must have a my Social Security account to explore online. If you prefer to explore by mail, read Form SS-5, fill it out, and mail it with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask for the mailing address.

What to Do If You Have Problems

If the SSA denies your process, they will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include missing documents, documents that do not match your process, or an inability to verify your citizenship or immigration status. The letter will tell you what you need to do next.

If you disagree with the SSA's decision, you can request a hearing. The letter will explain how to file a request. You can also call your local Social Security office or the main number (1-800-772-1213) to ask a representative to help you understand what went wrong and what documents you need to bring back.

If you have questions during the process, call 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. You can also visit your local office in person and ask to speak with someone about your process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else explore for a Social Security card on my behalf?

No. You must explore in person at a Social Security office. The only exception is for children under age 18 — a parent or legal guardian can explore on their behalf by bringing the child's documents and proof that they are the parent or guardian.

Do I need a Social Security card if I already have a number?

You need the physical card if you want to show it as proof of your number. However, you can use your number without the card — employers, banks, and other organizations will accept your number if you can provide it verbally or in writing. The card itself is mainly useful as proof that your number is legitimate.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate is acceptable as proof of age. However, you will also need to bring proof of citizenship or legal immigration status, such as a passport, green card, or naturalization certificate. The SSA will verify your status with the Department of Homeland Security, which may add time to the process.

How much does a Social Security card cost?

There is no fee to explore for a Social Security card or to replace one. The SSA does not charge for this service.

Can I get a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have legal immigration status. You must bring proof of your status, such as a green card, Employment Authorization Document, or visa. The SSA will verify your status with the Department of Homeland Security before issuing your card.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.