What Type of ID Do I Need to Get a Job?

If you are hired for a job, your employer needs proof of:

• Who you are
• That you can work legally in the United States

Your employer must fill out an immigration form called an “I-9”  to list what kinds of proof the employer reviewed.  To see a copy of the form and the instructions, click here. This form lists the documents the employer needs to see. 

You may be able to get a job without a state ID if you have certain other papers. This can be helpful if you can’t get a state ID because you don’t have proof of where you live. To see a booklet with pictures of many of these documents, click here.

Papers that prove who you are AND that you can work

• U.S. Passport
• Green Card or Form I-551
• Foreign passport or visa that contains temporary I-551 stamp
• Employment Authorization Document with photograph (form I-766)

Papers that prove who you are:

• Drivers license or state ID card
• Government or school ID with name and other identifying information
• Military ID card or records
• Voter registration card
• Native American Tribal Papers
• Canadian drivers license

Persons under 18 may also use:

• School record or report card.
• Clinic, doctor, or hospital record
• Day care or nursery record

Papers that prove that you are allowed to work:

• Social Security Card
• Official or certified birth certificate
• Certificate of Birth Abroad
• Native American tribal document
• U.S. Citizen ID Card (Form I-197)
• Employment authorization form issued by Dept of Homeland Security