Why is a Social Security number needed to apply for a driver's license or state identification card?

Michigan law requires the Department of State to collect Social Security numbers before issuing a driver's license or state identification card.
(Michigan Vehicle Code, 1949 PA 300, as amended by 1998 PA 330; and State Identification Card Act, 1972 PA 222, as amended by 2008 PA 31.)

Social Security numbers are used for child support collection and to assist in establishing identity.

What do I have to bring to prove I have a valid Social Security number?

The following documents will be accepted:

• Your Social Security card.
• W-2, SSA-1099, or non-SSA 1099 form.
• Pay stub containing your name and Social Security number.
• Valid U.S. military ID card with photo (DD-2 or CAC card).  (Documents expired less than one year will also be accepted.)
• If you are ineligible for a Social Security number, you must have a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration attesting to that fact. Letters that are more than 30 days old will not be accepted.

All Social Security information will be verified. If you fail to provide a valid Social Security number or provide proof demonstrating your ineligibility, your driver's license or state ID application cannot be processed.

Who will see my Social Security number?

Concerted effort and planning has taken place to ensure this information is protected. It is important for the public to know that the Social Security numbers are not displayed or encoded on the driver's license or ID card. This information is limited to select individuals in government agencies as allowed by law. Michigan has worked hard to ensure the proper safeguards were in place to protect the personal privacy of state residents.

How do I apply for a Social Security number?

If you have never been issued a Social Security card, you may apply for one at no cost at a local Social Security office. You will need to:

• Bring a completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) and,
• Provide at least two documents to confirm your age, identity and citizenship or legal presence.

Acceptable documents include but are not limited to an original birth certificate, a U.S. hospital record of your birth, valid U.S. driver's license, state-issued identification card or U.S. passport. Only originals or copies certified by the agency that issued the document will be accepted. Individuals who are not U.S. citizens must provide a current U.S. immigration document and foreign passport with biographical information or photograph.

You should receive your new Social Security card in about two weeks.

My Social Security card was lost or stolen. How do I get a replacement?

You should apply for a new card at your local Social Security office. There is no cost. You will need to bring a valid U.S. driver's license, state identification card or U.S. passport to verify your identity. You will also need to complete a Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). If you were born outside of the U.S., you will need to show proof of your U.S. citizenship or current lawful, work-authorized immigration status.

My name has changed since I got my Social Security card. Will it be accepted when I apply for my driver's license or state ID card?

The best solution is to apply for a new card at your local Social Security office. You will need to provide the document showing the name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, certificate of naturalization or other court record. If your name change is more than two years old or the information you provide is insufficient, additional proof may be required.

Where can I get more information about applying for a Social Security card?

Contact the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or visit its Web site at www.ssa.gov.