Social Security Cards
A Social Security Card is required to obtain a California Driver's License. However, a Social Security Card will not be issued if you do not have work authorization, if you are F-1, J-1 or J-2. Contact your immigration specialist for more details before going to the Social Security office. In order to obtain a Social Security Card you must take your passport, I-94 (which you should receive when you cross the border), and I-20 (F-visa) or DS-2019 (J-visa) and appear in person at any Social Security Administration Office. For more information you can call the main branch at 800-772-1213.
If you do not have employment that requires a Social Security Card it will not be issued. However, you will be given a form to present to DMV so that they will process your application for a CA Driver’s License.