The Two Most Common Forms of ID Employers Ask For

When you show up for a job interview or your first day of work, most employers will ask you to bring two forms of identification. A government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) and a Social Security card are the standard combination. The photo ID proves who you are, and the Social Security card is what your employer needs to set up your tax withholding and payroll records.

Some employers accept different combinations — for example, a state ID card plus a birth certificate, or a passport plus a Social Security card. The key is that one form should have your photo on it, and one should have your Social Security number. Your employer will likely make a copy of both documents for their hiring file.

If you don't have both documents yet, you can still interview, but you'll need to have them before your first official day of work. Most employers won't let you start payroll without them.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) and a Social Security card are the standard two forms of ID employers request.
  • The photo ID proves your identity, and the Social Security card allows your employer to set up your tax records and direct deposit.
  • Some employers accept alternatives like a birth certificate or passport, but you need one document with a photo and one with your Social Security number.
  • You should bring originals, not copies, though your employer will make copies for their records.

Government-Issued Photo ID: What Counts

A government-issued photo ID means a document created by a federal, state, or local government agency that has your photograph on it. A driver's license or state ID card issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the most common choice. A U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID also work. Some employers also accept a tribal ID if you have one.

The ID needs to be current or only slightly expired — most employers won't accept an ID that expired more than a year or two ago, though policies vary. If your ID is expired, bring it anyway and ask the employer whether they'll accept it. Many will, especially if you're in the process of renewing it.

A school ID, library card, or work ID from a previous job does not count as government-issued, even if it has your photo. Neither does a passport copy or a digital version on your phone.

Social Security Card: What You Need to Know

Your Social Security card is a small card issued by the Social Security Administration that has your name and nine-digit Social Security number on it. You need the physical card itself, not a printout or a photo of it. If you've lost your card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration website or by visiting a local Social Security office — replacements usually arrive within two weeks.

If you don't have a Social Security number yet because you're a recent immigrant, you'll need to explore for one before you can start work. Your employer can tell you how to do this, or you can contact the Social Security Administration directly. The process takes a few weeks, so start early if you know you'll need one.

Do not laminate your Social Security card or write on it. Some employers won't accept a card that's been altered, even if the information is still readable.

What to Bring on Your First Day

Bring the original documents, not copies. Your employer will photocopy them for their hiring file. Put them in a safe place — your wallet, a folder, or an envelope — so they don't get lost on the way to work.

If you're worried about carrying your Social Security card around, you can ask your employer whether you can bring it only on your first day and leave it at home otherwise. Many employers are fine with this. Some states also allow you to bring a Social Security letter from the Social Security Administration instead of the card itself, though not all employers accept this — ask ahead if you're concerned.

Bring both documents even if you've already interviewed. Employers often ask for them again on the first day of work as part of the official hiring paperwork.

If You Don't Have Both Documents Yet

If you're missing one or both documents, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (for a driver's license or state ID) or the Social Security Administration (for a Social Security card) as soon as you know you have a job offer. Both agencies can tell you how long replacements or new cards take to arrive in your state.

In the meantime, tell your employer that you're in the process of getting the documents. Most employers will give you a short window — often a week or two — to bring them in. They may ask you to sign a form saying you'll provide them by a certain date. Do not start work without having a plan in place to get these documents, because your employer cannot process your payroll without them.

If you're explore for a Social Security number for the first time, the process takes longer. Start this as soon as you have a job offer, because you'll need the number before your first paycheck can be issued.

What Happens If You Can't Find Your Documents

If you've lost your driver's license, go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office or website and order a replacement. Most states let you do this online or by mail. Replacements usually cost between $10 and $30 and arrive within one to three weeks, depending on your state.

If you've lost your Social Security card, visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to order a replacement. You can also visit a local Social Security office in person. Replacements are free and usually arrive within two weeks. You'll need to prove your identity and citizenship, so have your driver's license or passport ready when you explore.

If you don't have either document and need them quickly, ask your employer whether they can delay your start date by a week or two. Most will work with you if you're honest about the timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license?

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card counts as a government-issued photo ID. You'll still need your Social Security card as the second form of ID. Some employers prefer a driver's license because it's easier to photocopy, but a passport is equally valid.

What if my Social Security card is laminated?

Some employers won't accept a laminated card because the lamination can damage the card over time or make it harder to verify. If your card is laminated, order a replacement from the Social Security Administration. Replacements are free and take about two weeks.

Do I need to bring my original documents or can I bring copies?

Bring the originals. Your employer will make copies for their file. Bringing only copies may delay your hiring because the employer needs to verify that the originals exist and match the copies.

What if I'm a permanent resident but don't have a U.S. Social Security number yet?

You'll need to explore for a Social Security number before you can start work. Contact the Social Security Administration or visit a local office. Bring your green card and passport. The process takes a few weeks, so start as soon as you have a job offer.

Can I use a school ID or work ID from a previous job?

No. School IDs, library cards, and previous work IDs don't count as government-issued photo ID. You need an ID issued by a government agency — a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Your Social Security card is the second form.