Use your passport as your main proof of identity until you can get your UO ID card or your Oregon’s Driver’s License or Social Security Card (if desired). As soon as you are able to obtain other types of photo identification, put your passport in safe storage and carry a photocopy of it. Having photocopies of arrival documents will also help you considerably when replacing them in the case of loss or theft.

A Social Security number (SSN) is required for everyone who works in the U.S., including non- immigrants. It is not a work permit, nor is it a health insurance benefit. The SSN is used by the government to collect taxes from employees’ paychecks. Certain non-immigrants (such as F-1 and J- 1) are not required to have Social Security taxes deducted from their pay. If you are planning to work in the U.S., you must apply for a Social Security Number. An SSN is issued once per lifetime. If you have previously had an SSN, but do not have the card or do not remember the number, you can apply for a duplicate card if you meet eligibility requirements. F-2 dependents are not eligible for SSNs. The following people are eligible to apply:

F-1 students with a job offer letter and work permissionJ-1 students with a job offer and a work authorization letter from their DS-2019 sponsor J-2 dependents with work permission from the USCIS (EAD)Individuals with other types of immigration status allowing employment

Most businesses do not need an SSN from you unless it is for credit purposes (loans, credit cards, etc.) If a business requests an SSN solely for ID purposes, you can request that the business create an ID for you. You do not need an SSN to open bank accounts. If a bank clerk insists on an SSN, ask to speak to a manager.

How To Apply

Students must have an on-campus job or Graduate Employee position and must be physically present in the U.S. to apply for an SSN. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is required to verify your legal entry into the U.S. before issuing an SSN. 

How to Apply for a Social Security Number

SSN Safety

Although an SSN is only meant to be used for tax and government purposes, it is often used by financial institutions, businesses, and others as a unique identification number. Because the SSN is a unique ID, it is often the target of “identity theft.” Therefore, you should be very careful about where and to whom you give your SSN.

• Never carry your Social Security card or number with you
• Be very careful with any forms, applications or other materials that may have your SSN on it
• Never give your SSN to someone who calls you by phone (this is a scam!)
• Never reply to email or web sites that request an SSN

Non-Residents (paying non-resident tuition)

As a visitor, you can legally drive in Oregon if you have a valid driver license from:

• Any U.S. State or territory
• The District of Columbia
• A Canadian Province or another country

You are considered a visitor if:

• Your permanent residence is outside Oregon
• You are in the military stationed in Oregon
• You are attending school in Oregon and are paying non-resident tuition
• You do not plan to take any steps to become a resident of Oregon

Oregon DMV

You will get your UO ID card from the EMU Card Office during International Student Orientation. However, you must upload a photo of yourself prior to orientation by following the instructions online.

UO ID Card

Your UO ID is valid for as long as you have an active relationship with the university. You do not need to renew your UO ID annually.