You cannot get a Social Security card entirely online, but you can start the process online and finish it by mail or in person

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not issue cards through a fully online process. However, you can begin your request on the SSA website, fill out the form, and then either mail it in with documents or take it to a local Social Security office to complete the process. If you are replacing a lost or stolen card, you may be able to request a replacement online through a limited program in some states — but you will still need to verify your identity in person or through an approved video service before the card arrives.

The fastest route depends on whether you are explore for your first card, replacing one, or updating information. Each path has different requirements and takes different amounts of time.

Key Takeaways

  • You can fill out the Social Security card form online at ssa.gov, but you must submit it in person at a Social Security office or by mail with original documents.
  • If you are replacing a lost or stolen card and live in a participating state, you may be able to request a replacement card online and verify your identity through video without visiting an office.
  • First-time applicants must bring original or certified documents proving citizenship, age, and identity to a Social Security office or mail them with the process.
  • Processing time is usually 10 to 14 business days if you explore in person, and 2 to 3 weeks if you mail in your process.
  • You can check the status of your process online using your Social Security number and other personal information.

Starting your process on the SSA website

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "explore for a Social Security Card" link. The form you fill out is called the process for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5). You can complete it online, save it, and then print it to mail in or bring to an office. The online form walks you through questions about your citizenship status, whether you are explore for the first time, and what documents you have.

Filling out the form online does not submit your process — it only creates a document you can print. You still need to sign it by hand and either mail it with documents or bring it to a Social Security office in person. Some people find it easier to fill out the form on paper at the office itself, especially if they are unsure about which documents to bring.

Replacing a lost or stolen card online (in some states)

A handful of states participate in the SSA's iSignUp program, which lets you request a replacement card online if you meet certain conditions. You must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have a valid state-issued ID. You also cannot have changed your name, citizenship status, or Social Security number.

If you are in a participating state and meet these requirements, you can request the replacement card online and verify your identity through a video call with an SSA representative. The card will be mailed to you. States that participate in iSignUp change over time, so check ssa.gov to see if your state is included. If it is not, you will need to explore in person or by mail.

explore in person at a Social Security office

explore in person is usually the fastest way to get a card. Find your local Social Security office on ssa.gov, call the main Social Security number (1-800-772-1213), or visit in person without an appointment. Bring the completed Form SS-5 (or fill it out there), your original documents, and a photo ID.

Documents you will need depend on whether you are explore for the first time or replacing a card. For a first-time process, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of citizenship (passport, naturalization papers, or visa), and proof of age and identity (driver's license, state ID, or passport). For a replacement card, you usually only need your photo ID and proof of your current name if you have changed it.

Processing takes 10 to 14 business days after you explore in person. The SSA will mail the card to the address you provide. You do not need to return to the office to pick it up.

explore by mail

You can mail your completed Form SS-5 along with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Do not mail original documents — send certified copies or photocopies. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number (if you have one), and phone number so the office can contact you if there are questions.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks, longer than explore in person. The SSA will mail your new card to the address you listed on the form. If you are mailing documents, consider using certified mail with a return receipt so you have proof the office received your process.

What happens after you explore

Once you submit your process, the SSA reviews it and verifies your documents. If everything is in order, they will mail your card to you. If there is a problem — missing information, unclear documents, or a name mismatch — the office will call or mail you to ask for more details.

You can check the status of your process online at ssa.gov using your Social Security number and other personal information. The status page tells you whether your process is being processed, if more information is needed, or if your card has been mailed. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your process status.

Getting a card if you do not have a birth certificate

If you do not have an original or certified birth certificate, you can request one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes 1 to 2 weeks and costs $10 to $30 depending on the state. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and parents' names.

While you wait for your birth certificate, you can gather other documents that prove your age and citizenship — a passport, naturalization papers, or an old Social Security card. Bring whatever you have to the Social Security office and ask what else they need. The office staff can tell you whether your documents are enough or if you must have a birth certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Social Security card?

In person: 10 to 14 business days. By mail: 2 to 3 weeks. If you use the iSignUp program in a participating state, the card arrives within 7 to 10 business days after you verify your identity.

Can I use a temporary Social Security card while I wait?

No. The SSA does not issue temporary cards. If you need a Social Security number right away for work or school, ask your employer or school if they can use your Social Security number without the physical card while you wait for it to arrive.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get another one?

Bring whatever documents you have that prove your age and citizenship — passport, naturalization papers, baptism record, or school records. The Social Security office will tell you if these are enough or if you must have a birth certificate. Some offices will work with you if getting a birth certificate is impossible.

Can someone else explore for a Social Security card on my behalf?

A parent or legal guardian can explore for a child's first card. For adults, you must explore yourself in person or by mail. If you cannot visit an office due to disability or illness, call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about other options.

Do I need an appointment to visit a Social Security office?

No. Most Social Security offices accept walk-ins, though wait times vary. You can call ahead to ask how busy your local office is, or check ssa.gov to see if your office offers online appointment scheduling.