If you are a foreign national living in the U.S. and you recently applied for a green card or received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you may be wondering how to get a Social Security Number (SSN) or driver’s license. These documents are essential for daily life in the U.S.—whether you’re starting a new job, opening a bank account, or simply wanting to drive legally.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of getting both, including recent updates you need to know.

How to Get a Social Security Number (SSN) After Green Card: Why You May Need to Apply In-Person

Even if you requested an SSN on your Form I-765 (EAD application) or Form I-485 (green card application), you may still need to visit a Social Security Administration (SSA) office in person. This is due to recent changes in how government agencies verify immigration status before issuing SSNs.

According to an April 2025 announcement from DHS, the verification process through the SAVE database has been "overhauled." While these changes aim to improve interagency communication in the long run, we’ve observed inconsistencies in how SSNs are issued, even for individuals who checked the box to receive an SSN as part of their immigration application.

As a result, you may have to apply for your SSN in-person at the Social Security Administration (SSA) office, even if you requested it during your green card or EAD filing. Here's what you need:

• The SSA has a guide for foreign nationals applying for a SSN available here.
  • If you have applied for a green card (submitted Form I-485), the relevant immigration documentation would be the unexpired foreign passport, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and I-485 Receipt Notice.
• To find the nearest SSA office, you can enter your zip code here.
• The SSN application form is available here.

Bring your documents and SS-5 form to the local SSA office. Appointments are often recommended. It may take several weeks or longer to receive your SSN card. The SSA must verify your immigration status through the SAVE system, which can cause delays.

Please note: if a foreign national has not yet received the green card, the social security number card will say "Valid for work only with DHS authorization." That means that you must have separate documentation to show that you are work authorized (e.g. I-94, EAD, etc). If you are a permanent resident (green card holder) or U.S. citizen, you'll want to make sure your social security number card is updated to not show that language.

Getting a U.S. Driver’s License

Driver’s license eligibility and requirements vary by state, but most states will allow you to apply for a license if you can prove:

• Your lawful immigration status
• Your identity
• Your residency in that state

Steps for confirming the process and documents needed:

• Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. This is the website for the Virginia DMV.
• Look for information under “non-U.S. citizens” or “foreign nationals.”
  • This is the document guide for the Virginia DMV, which includes guidance on documentation for foreign nationals. If you have applied for a green card, you must bring your I-485 receipt notice and the approved employment authorization document (EAD).
• Commonly required documents for foreign nationals include:
  • Unexpired passport and I-94 record (downloadable from CBP’s website)
  • I-485 receipt notice and EAD
  • SSN or SSA denial letter (some states require this)

Keep in mind that DMVs also verify your status through the SAVE database, so processing may take additional time. Plan ahead and bring all original documents. You may be able to make an appointment at the DMV as well.

We understand how important it is to have your SSN and driver’s license as quickly as possible. Due to recent government system changes, delays and inconsistencies are unfortunately common. If a government agency such as the DMV or SSA tell you that they cannot verify your immigration status, they will likely ask you to return in several weeks, or they may indicate that they will send you a notice via email or mail. In most cases, they are waiting for verification through the SAVE database and unfortunately, there's usually not much you can do other than wait. If you are a client of Sumner Immigration Law and you need assistance or are experiencing delays, please let us know.

If you are not yet a Sumner Immigration Law client and you’re looking for an experienced, empathetic, and efficient team to help you navigate the process with confidence, please contact us today to set up your initiation consultation to get the process started! You can set an appointment online. You can also call us at 804-214-7870 or send us an email at info@sumnerimmigration.com.

We are immigration lawyers in Richmond, VA, but we serve clients throughout the U.S. and around the world. For more information on our firm visit Who We Are and What Makes Us Different! We look forward to hearing from you!

As always, the above information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Please speak with a qualified immigration lawyer before taking action.

Post updated 5/15/2025.