To verify your identity, various documents are accepted as proof of ID. Generally, these documents include options from List A, such as a valid passport, or a combination of one document from List B (like a driver’s license) and one from List C (such as a Social Security card or birth certificate). These documents help confirm both your identity and your eligibility for employment.
What Documents Can I Use as Proof of Identity?
When providing proof of identity, you have several options. The specific documents you can use often depend on the context in which they are needed, such as for employment verification using the I-9 form. Accepted documents typically fall into categories that establish both identity and employment authorization.
List A Documents: Single Documents That Establish Both Identity and Employment Authorization
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card: A formal document issued by the Department of State, it identifies you as a U.S. citizen and is valid for international travel.
- Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt Card: This card is issued to lawful permanent residents of the U.S.
- Employment Authorization Document: Issued by the Department of Homeland Security, this document allows non-citizens to work in the U.S.
- Foreign Passport: This must contain a temporary I-551 stamp or I-94 form.
- Other acceptable documents: These can include a foreign passport or documentation.
List B Documents: Documents That Establish Identity
- Driver’s License: A license issued by a state or territory to authorize the operation of a motor vehicle.
- State ID Card: An identification card issued by a state government.
- Voter’s Registration Card: A card confirming registration to vote.
- School ID Card: An identification card issued by an educational institution.
List C Documents: Documents That Establish Employment Authorization
- Social Security Card: A card issued by the Social Security Administration.
- Birth Certificate: A document certifying a person’s birth.
- Other Documents: These can include U.S. Citizen ID Card (Form I-197)
What if I’ve Lost My Documents?
If you’ve lost any of the documents from Lists A, B, or C, you can present a receipt for a replacement document. This allows you to temporarily fulfill the requirement while you obtain the official replacement.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is the I-9 form?
The I-9 form is used to verify the identity and employment eligibility of individuals hired to work in the United States. Employees must complete Section 1 of the form between accepting a job offer and their first day of work, providing basic information and attesting to their citizenship status. Within three days of the start date, they must present the required documents from List A, or one each from List B and List C.
What is a passport?
A passport is a formal document issued by a national government that identifies a traveler as a citizen with the right to protection while abroad and the right to return to their country. It contains a description of the bearer and a photograph for identification purposes.
Where can I apply for a U.S. passport?
In the United States, you can apply for a passport through various regional passport agencies, clerks of federal and state courts, designated post offices, libraries, and other government facilities, as well as U.S. consular authorities abroad. The passport is required for both departure and reentry to the United States.
Understanding which documents are accepted as proof of identity is essential for various situations, from starting a new job to traveling internationally. Knowing your options and what to do if your documents are lost ensures you can navigate these processes smoothly.
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