Age usually determines what proof of identity documents are available to an applicant.
When the application for an SSN is for a very young child (e.g., newborn), hospital
records (other than a souvenir birth certificate issued by the hospital) created at
the time of birth should exist. After two weeks of age, most children see a physician
routinely for shots and check-ups. In addition to these documents other medical records
should exist.
A child (birth through age 17) should be able to provide an identity document issued or recorded within the past
4 years. If an evidence of identity document does not show an expiration date, the
date issued must be within the last 4 years.
EXCEPTION: Certified childcare facility records, preschool records, school records, transcripts,
or report cards must be from current or prior school year.
An adult (age 18 to age 69) in most cases, should be able to provide a current identity document such as an unexpired
driver’s license or State-issued non-driver identity card. For documents that do not
show an expiration date, the date issued should be within the last two years.
An older adult (age 70 and older) particularly one who is less active or in a nursing home, may not have a current
identity document, but may have an expired driver’s license issued several years ago
that may be acceptable with other evidence readily available (e.g., medical records).
An evidence of identity document that does not contain a date of issue or date of
expiration is not acceptable unless it has a photo with which the applicant can be
easily and properly identified by comparing the picture on the document (i.e. the
photo appears taken within the past 5 years) to the applicant. If you cannot easily
and properly identify the applicant, request another document from the priority lists
in RM 10210.420.