Proof of Social Security Number
To apply for a driver's license, learner's permit, commercial driver's license (CDL), or CDL instruction permit you must bring two identification documents, proof of Virginia residency and proof of social security number (SSN). To apply for a photo identification card you must bring two identification documents and proof of Virginia residency.
Neither temporary documents nor photocopies of documents will be accepted. All documents must be originals and all documents may be subject to verification with the issuing entity prior to acceptance. DMV may require additional documents. DMV will not accept a document as proof of identity, residency or social security number when there is reason to believe it has been altered, fraudulently obtained or is fake, forged, counterfeit or otherwise non-genuine or illegitimate.
Falsifying information on a driver's license, learner's permit or photo ID card application is a criminal offense. Altering or assisting a person with improperly or fraudulently obtaining a driver's license, learner's permit, CDL, CDL instruction permit or photo ID card are also criminal offenses.
The acceptable documents listed may change without prior notice.
If you have been issued an SSN, you will need one proof of SSN that displays all 9 digits. DMV will assign you a customer number which will display on your driver's license, learner's permit, CDL, CDL instruction permit or photo ID card. If you are applying for an ID card, you do not have to provide an SSN.
DMV will verify all SSNs with the Social Security Administration. If the information (name, date of birth, and SSN) you present does not match the information on file at the Social Security Administration, DMV will not issue you a driver's license, learner's permit, CDL or CDL instruction permit.
- Social security card (Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers are not accepted).
- U.S. Internal Revenue Service tax reporting W-2 form or 1099 form.
- Payroll check stub issued by employer.
- Unexpired U.S. military ID card of an active duty or retired member (ID cards of military dependents are not accepted).
- Annual Social Security Statement.
If you wish to change your DMV-assigned number in the future, you may be required to present documentation from law enforcement or the courts indicating that you may be a victim of identity theft.







