Do I Need SSN To Get A Drivers License

Reader’s Question:

Do I have to have a SSN before I can get a driver license?

Gene

Seattle, WA

Every state has different laws regarding to the requirements of obtaining a drivers license. You may contact your state’s drivers license office to verify their requirements.

Most states now require a SSN in order to get a drivers license.

In the past the Social Security Administration was able to provide an SSN in order to permit individuals to obtain a drivers license. They no longer can assign an SSN to a non-citizen mainly for the purpose of getting a driver’s license. Non-citizens otherwise are not eligible for an SSN can, but, obtain one for purposes other than employment when:

• A Federal statute or regulation requires the non-citizen to provide an SSN to get a particular benefit or service; or
• A State or local law requires the non-citizen to provide a SSN to get general assistance benefits.