Getting a Social Security card without a valid form of ID can be challenging, but not impossible. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires proof of identity to issue a card. However, if you don’t have ID, here are your best steps:

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✅ 1. Understand What Is Considered Valid ID

SSA typically accepts:

• U.S. driver’s license

• U.S. state-issued non-driver ID

• U.S. passport

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✅ 2. Gather Other Acceptable Proofs (If No Valid ID)

If you don’t have traditional ID, try to gather all of these secondary documents you can. IDs that are better include, identifying information such as your DOB or age and preferably a photo. Here are IDs and items that may help:

• Employee ID card

• School ID card

• Health insurance card (not Medicare)

• U.S. military ID

• Prison ID

• Voter registration card

• School records/transcripts (with name, DOB, photo)

• Medical records from a hospital/clinic

• Religious records (e.g., baptismal certificate with DOB)

• Employer statement verifying your identity

• Any other documents (birth certificate, immigration records, proof of U.S. citizenship, etc.)

The SSA might accept these but approval is not guaranteed — it’s case-by-case.

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✅ 3. Apply in Person at a Local SSA Office

Because of the ID issue, it’s best to apply in person.

Bring everything you have, and be ready to explain your situation.

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✅ 4. If the above did not work, consider trying to get a State ID first

If SSA won’t accept your alternate documents, try to get a Texas state-issued ID first:

DPS Pamplet on how to get a state ID

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✅ 5. Special Cases

• Homeless or recently incarcerated individuals: Some states or organizations offer help getting IDs and Social Security cards.

• Minors or students: May be able to use school records, report cards, or letters from school officials.