To apply for an SSN, bring the following original documents to your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office:

• Form SS-5
  • It is recommended to type out the Social Security Card Application before printing and signing in ink.
• Form I-20 or Form DS-2019
• Unexpired Passport
• Most Recent I-94 Entry Record

You will also need one of the following documents depending on the type of employment:

• F‐1 On‐Campus Employment: F-1 Social Security On-Campus Employment Form
  • You can apply up to 30 days before your on-campus employment start date.
• F‐1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Form I‐20 with CPT Authorization
  • You can apply up to 30 days before your CPT authorization start date.
• F‐1 Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • You can apply once you reach the start date on your OPT EAD card.
• J‐1 On‐Campus Employment: J-1 On-Campus Employment Authorization Form
  • You can apply up to 30 days prior to your on-campus employment start date.
• J‐1 Academic Training (AT): Form DS-2019 with AT Authorization
  • You can apply up to 30 days prior to your AT authorization start date.

Once you have applied, it typically takes the SSA 7‐10 business days to verify your information. The SSA will then mail the Social Security Card to you. Students will be given a receipt of application that may be used to begin work while the application is pending. Upon receipt, the original Social Security Card must be presented to the employer.

Washington, DC Location

1300 D Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

Open: Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closed: Saturday and Sunday

It is recommended to apply for a Social Security Card at the Washington, DC office location, as officers are used to assisting F-1 and J-1 students. Other office locations may not be as knowledgeable with F-1 and F-1 SSN eligibility requirements. 

Other Locations

For addresses and hours of other SSA offices that process Social Security Card Applications, please use the SSA Office Locator Tool.

If you are not eligible for an SSN, you can request a “letter of ineligibility” from the SSA. You need to present your original Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, passport, and most recent I-94 entry record. The letter of ineligibility may be required in order to obtain a driver’s license.