How to apply for a Social Security Number 

Only students with F-1 status who are employed must apply for a U.S. Social Security number. 

Anyone with J-1 status can apply for a U.S. Social Security number, even if they are not employed. 

To apply for a Social Security number at a local Social Security office: 

1. Complete an Application for a Social Security card (SS-5)

2. Show documentation proving your: 

• Work-authorized immigration status

• Age, and 

• Identity.

3. To prove immigration status, bring a current admission stamp in an unexpired foreign passport and Arrival/Departure Record (Form I-94). F-1 or M-1 student must show their Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (Form I-20). J-1 students must show their Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019). 

4. Working F-1 students must bring a letter from their designated school official that: 

• Identifies them;

• Confirms their current school status; and 

• Identifies their employer and the type of work they are or will be doing; and 

• Evidence of employment (pay slip or a signed and dated employment letter from employer). The employment letter must describe: 

  • • Their Job

    • Employment start date 

    • Number of Hours they are, or will be working; and 

    • Supervisor's name and telephone number

** F-1 student authorized to work in curricular practical training (CPT) must provide Form I-20 with employment page completed and signed by school designated official. 

F-1 or M-1 students with work permit (Form 1-766) from DHS must present it. 

J-1 students must have a letter from their sponsor with sponsor letterhead with an original signature that authorizes employment. **

**Cannot process an application if: 

1. On-Campus or CPT work begins more than 30-days from the application date; or 

2. Employment start date on a work permit from DHS (Form 1-766) is a future date**

Receiving a Real ID-compliant driver's license and State ID cards 

You can go to the local Bureau of Motor Vehicle (BMV) office to obtain a Real ID-compliant license or ID. With the standard license requirements, applicants must have their photograph taken and provide the following documentation: 

1. One document that establishes identity, date of birth, and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, or another lawful status in the U.S. (i.e., Certified Government-Issued Record of Birth or Passport) 

2. Provide Social Security number (card not required) or evidence of Social Security Number ineligibility

3. Two documents to establish proof of residence in the State of Maine (i.e. utility bill, paycheck stub, or mortgage statement)

**If your name has been legally changed and differs from identity document(s) (i.e., birth certificate or passport), name change documentation must be provided to receive a Real ID. Accepted documents are marriage license, divorce decree, or court order.**