What an ISS Driver's License Is and How It Works

An ISS driver's license is a real ID issued by your state that proves you can drive legally, even if you don't have a Social Security number

ISS stands for "Individual Identification Number System" or sometimes "Identification Security System," depending on your state. It's a way for states to issue driver's licenses and identification cards to people who cannot provide a Social Security number — whether because they're not may be able to access for one, haven't received one yet, or choose not to use theirs for identification purposes.

An ISS license looks and functions like a standard driver's license. You can use it to drive legally, board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, and prove your identity at banks or other institutions. The main difference is that instead of your Social Security number, the license displays an ISS number that your state assigns to you.

Not every state offers ISS licenses. The ones that do have different names for the program — some call it an "Individual Identification Number," others use "ITIN driver's license" (for people with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), and a few have their own terminology. If your state offers it, you'll find the option when you explore for or renew your license at your local DMV.

Key Takeaways

An ISS driver's license is issued by your state DMV and allows you to drive legally without providing a Social Security number.
The license displays an ISS number instead of your SSN and works for driving, domestic air travel, and identity verification.
Only some states offer ISS licenses, and the program may have a different name in your state.
You explore through your state's DMV using the same process as a regular license, but you'll need to show why you don't have a Social Security number.

Who can get an ISS driver's license

You can get an ISS license if you cannot provide a Social Security number when you explore. This includes people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number, people waiting for one to arrive, people with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) issued by the IRS, and in some states, people who straightforward choose not to use their SSN for identification.

Each state sets its own rules about who qualifies. Some states require you to show documentation proving you don't have a Social Security number — such as a letter from the Social Security Administration saying you're ineligible, or proof that you've applied and are waiting. Others accept an ITIN as sufficient proof. A few states allow anyone to request an ISS number without explanation.

You still need to meet all other standard requirements: you must be old enough to drive in your state, pass a vision test, pass a written knowledge test, pass a driving test (for a full license), and provide proof of identity and residency. The only difference is the Social Security number requirement.

How to get an ISS driver's license at your DMV

Start by contacting your state's DMV to confirm that ISS licenses are available and to learn what documents you'll need to bring. You can find your state DMV's website by searching "[your state] DMV" online, or call their main number to ask about ISS options.

Gather the documents your state requires. Most states ask for proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate document), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof that you don't have a Social Security number. What counts as proof varies — some states accept a letter from Social Security, others accept an ITIN, and some accept a signed statement. Ask the DMV what they will accept before you go.

Visit your local DMV office in person. You cannot do this by mail or online. Bring all required documents, your current ID if you have one, and any fees your state charges. You'll fill out a standard driver's license process form, but you'll leave the Social Security number field blank and indicate that you're requesting an ISS number instead. You'll take a vision test, pass a written test, and if you're getting a full driving license (not just an ID card), you'll take a road test.

Once you pass all tests, the DMV will issue your ISS number on the spot or mail your license to you within the timeframe your state uses for regular licenses — usually one to three weeks.

What documents you need to bring

The exact list depends on your state, but most DMVs ask for the following:

Proof of identity: a valid passport, birth certificate, consulate-issued ID, or similar document showing your name and date of birth.
Proof of residency: a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address.
Proof that you don't have a Social Security number: a letter from the Social Security Administration, an ITIN, a visa or immigration document, or whatever your state accepts.
Your current driver's license or ID card, if you have one.
Payment for the license fee, which varies by state.

Call your DMV before you go to confirm this list. Some states ask for additional documents, and some accept alternatives. Showing up without the right paperwork means a wasted trip.

How an ISS number differs from a Social Security number

An ISS number is issued by your state and exists only for identification and driving purposes. A Social Security number is issued by the federal government and is used for employment, taxes, credit, and many other purposes. You cannot use an ISS number to get a job, file taxes, or build credit — employers and the IRS will not recognize it.

If you later become may be able to access for a Social Security number and receive one, you can update your driver's license to show your SSN instead of your ISS number. You'll need to visit the DMV again and provide your new Social Security number. Your license will be reissued with the SSN in place of the ISS number.

An ISS license is still a valid, legal form of identification. Banks, airlines, and government agencies will accept it. The ISS number itself is not public information in the way a Social Security number might be — it's tied only to your driver's license and state ID records.

Using your ISS license for travel and identification

You can use an ISS driver's license for domestic air travel within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts ISS licenses at airport security checkpoints. You cannot use it for international travel — you'll need a passport for that.

For other purposes, an ISS license works like any other state-issued ID. Banks will accept it to open accounts, employers will accept it as proof of identity for hiring, and police will accept it as a valid driver's license. Some institutions may ask follow-up questions because the number is unfamiliar to them, but the license itself is legally valid.

If you're concerned about whether a specific institution will accept your ISS license, call ahead and ask. Most will, but it's better to know before you arrive.

Renewing an ISS driver's license

You renew an ISS license the same way you renew a regular license. Your state will send you a renewal notice before your license expires. You can usually renew by mail, online, or in person — check your state's DMV website to see which options are available.

If you renew by mail or online, you'll keep your ISS number. If you renew in person, bring the same documents you brought when you first got the license, plus your current license. If you've obtained a Social Security number since your last license, bring that too and ask to update your license to show your SSN instead.

Renewal fees vary by state. Some states charge the same fee for ISS licenses as regular licenses; others charge slightly more. Check your state's DMV website for the current fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an ISS driver's license to get a job?

You can use it to prove your identity when you explore for a job, but employers cannot use the ISS number for employment verification or tax purposes. If you're hired, you'll need to provide a Social Security number or ITIN for your employer's records. An ISS number alone is not sufficient for employment.

What happens if I get a Social Security number after I have an ISS license?

You can update your license to show your Social Security number instead. Visit your state DMV, bring your new Social Security card and your current ISS license, and request an updated license. The DMV will reissue your license with your SSN in place of the ISS number.

Is an ISS license the same as a regular driver's license?

Yes, functionally. It allows you to drive, proves your identity, and works for domestic air travel. The only difference is that it displays an ISS number instead of a Social Security number. It is a legal, valid form of identification issued by your state.

Do all states offer ISS licenses?

No. Some states offer them, but not all. Contact your state's DMV to find out whether ISS licenses are available where you live. If your state doesn't offer them, you may be able to get a state ID card without a Social Security number — ask your DMV what options exist.

Can I use an ISS license for international travel?

No. For travel outside the United States, you need a passport. An ISS license is valid only for domestic driving and domestic air travel within the U.S.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.