SEVP Notes Driver’s License and Social Security Difficulties for Students

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) noted on September 6, 2012, that some F and M students are having difficulties when applying for a Social Security number (SSN) or driver’s license. SEVP and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program are working on a solution that they expect to implement shortly.

Currently, there are two options for students:

1. Return to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Social Security Administration (SSA) office in the student’s state on or after September 14, 2012. 
2. E-mail dmvssa.sevp@ice.dhs.gov, which may take longer than option one. Include the following in the e-mail:

1. Benefit requested (SSN or driver’s license)
2. Family name
3. First name
4. Date of birth
5. Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, admission number (11 digits)
6. SEVIS ID
7. Applicant’s physical address (required), phone number (required), and e-mail
8. Address of the office where problem occurred (and the name of the official, if known)
9. Date of the latest visit to office
10. SAVE case number (if available)
11. Current driver’s license/customer number and/or DMV receipt number (for DMV customers, if available)

While SEVP does not process benefits, SEVP says a representative will contact SSA or the student’s state DMV on the student’s behalf to help with processing.

The student may also contact the SEVP Response Center with further questions at either 703-603-3400 or SEVP@ice.dhs.gov.