IDs for Students and Dependents

Your passport and immigration documents are the primary photo identification (ID) used to obtain local ID. It is important to obtain local identification, not only for your daily convenience, but also to enable you to store your passport in a safe place. IDs commonly requested in the state of Texas are:

Social Security Number (SSN)

The SSN is issued for a worker’s federal retirement program. In addition to the workplace, where it is required, a SSN is often requested as an identification number when opening a bank or charge account or when registering with a physician. It is not available to internationals ineligible for work (e.g. F-2, H-4 visa holders).

Although you will be asked for a Social Security Number repeatedly, it is usually sufficient to produce either a Texas photo ID or a Texas Driver’s License, unless specified otherwise. As an unemployable international visitor (e.g. on an F-2, H4 visa), you may obtain a written letter verifying your ineligibility for the SSN. This is required while applying for the driver’s license.

Applications for either the SSN or for a letter verifying your ineligibility for the SSN are made at:

Social Security Office
903 San Jacinto, Suite 101 (1-800-772-1213)
Monday through Friday, 9:00AM to 4:00PM

You need your passport, 1-94 card, and 1-20 or IAP-66 immigration documents for this application. It will take approximately 10 working days to obtain your Social Security card.

Note: Social Security Tax: F1 and J1 students who are performing authorized employment (on campus, or off-campus with permission from INS) are generally exempt from payment of Social Security tax. F1 and J1 students working without authorization and J2 dependents who work are not exempt from social security tax. Information concerning social security tax can be found in Internal Revenue Service Publication 519.

For more information go to:
http://www.ssa.gov/

Texas Photo Identification Card (ID)

Anyone with a photo ID such as a passport, may apply for the Texas Photo Identification Card. A Social Security number is not required. This card is not related to driving. It costs $15.00.

Applications could be made to the:

State Department of Public Safety Office (DPS)
Monday though Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM, at the locations listed below:

Texas Driver’s License

A license can be obtained from the State Department of Public Safety Office (DPS), at the locations mentioned above. Access to a car, knowledge of Texas driving regulations, as well as testable driving skills are basic requirements for a driver’s license. This process can be initiated, though not completed, without applying for a Social Security Number (SSN). If you are not eligible for a Social Security card (e.g. F2, H4 visa holders), then obtain a letter of denial, before going for the Driver’s license.

Take the following steps:

For more information go to:
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/

University of Texas Student/Staff Photo Identification Card

This card (ID) is only available to students and scholars who have formal affiliation with UT Austin. Therefore, dependents of students and scholars are ineligible for the University of Texas Photo ID. Both the UT libraries and Recreational Sports Department issue user cards for a fee to student and scholar dependents.

Academic departments have some visiting scholars as designated by the Vice President of Graduate Studies who are not identified in the University Administrative Information System (UAIS). Although these visitors may qualify for and receive a UT ID, their absence from the UAIS may occasionally result in this ID not being honored. In general, both the UT libraries and Recreational Sports Department recognize this card.