Get a Social Security Number

STEP 1: Collect all required documents

— Letter from OISS
— Official job offer letter (students must be employed to be eligible for a Social Security Number)
— I-94 (print from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94)
— Passport
— Most recent I-20 or DS-2019
— Completed SS-5 application (available at https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ or at Social Security Office)

STEP 2: Contact OISS for instructions on how to apply. Social Security offices are operating differently due to the COVID-19 pandemic and processes are changing. OISS will provide the most current information.

STEP 3: Receive your card and report your number

You will receive your Social Security Card in the mail about 2 weeks after you apply. When you receive your card, report your Social Security Number to your employer and, if you are being paid by URI, e-mail foreigntax@etal.uri.edu to set up an appointment to complete tax paperwork.

Protect yourself from identity theft. Keep your Social Security Card at home in a safe place and only provide your number when necessary.

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Get a Rhode Island Driver’s License or State ID

NOTE: The Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles is currently operating by appointment only. Make an appointment at http://www.dmv.ri.gov/

STEP 1: Collect  Required Immigration/ID Documents

If you HAVE a Social Security number, you need:

— Letter from OISS (confirms status, enrollment, and RI residency) addressed to RI DMV
— I-94 (print out from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94)
— Passport
— Most recent I-20 or DS-2019

If you DO NOT HAVE a Social Security number, you need:

— Letter of non-eligibility from Social Security — contact OISS for instructions on how to obtain the denial letter
— Letter from OISS (confirms status, enrollment, and RI residency) addressed to RI DMV
— I-94 (print out from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94)
— Passport
— Most recent I-20 or DS-2019

NOTE: DMV letters from OISS are good for 30 days.  Please only request a letter if you are actually planning on going to the DMV within 30 days.

STEP 2: Review RI DMV website for additional requirements and documents: http://www.dmv.ri.gov/

STEP 3: Bring all required documents to Rhode Island DMV office.

— If you believe that you have all the proper documents and are being refused a license or ID, please politely ask to see a supervisor.

RI DMV Offices Closest to URI Kingston Campus

We’re here to help

Office of International Students and Scholars
Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:30am – 4:30pm Eastern Time

International Center
37 Lower College Road
Kingston, RI, 02881
issoff@etal.uri.edu
+1.401.874.2395