Can my employer tell me which documents to bring?

No. Employers cannot specify which documents you must present. They must accept any valid document or combination from the Lists of Acceptable Documents. If an employer says "You must bring a passport" or "We only accept Green Cards," that may be discrimination. You choose which acceptable documents to present.

My Social Security card says 'VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION.' Can I use it?

No. USCIS says Social Security cards that say "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION," "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH INS AUTHORIZATION," or "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT" are not acceptable as List C documents for Form I-9.

I lost my Social Security card. What can I use instead?

Several options: (1) Apply for a replacement at ssa.gov and use another List C document meanwhile (birth certificate works), (2) Use a List A document like a passport instead, (3) Present a receipt for the replacement card (you'll have 90 days to show the actual card). Many workers use Driver's License + Birth Certificate instead.

Do I need to bring my original documents or are copies okay?

Original documents only. Employers must physically examine original documents. Photocopies, scanned copies, and photos of documents are not acceptable. The only exception is certified copies of birth certificates, which are acceptable (and often the only version available). Keep your originals safe and bring them to your onboarding appointment.

Can I use my school ID for I-9?

A school ID can be used as a List B document (identity) if it contains a photograph. However, you'll still need a List C document (work authorization) to complete the combination. Most workers find a driver's license or state ID easier since they likely already have one.

What if my Green Card is expiring soon?

If your Green Card will expire soon, apply for renewal (Form I-90) before the expiration date. If you have already filed for renewal, the I-90 receipt notice may provide temporary evidence in some situations. Permanent residents should keep renewal records organized and follow USCIS guidance closely. A U.S. passport is only available after you become a U.S. citizen through naturalization.

Acceptable I-9 Documents: Lists A, B, C Explained

Download app

Acceptable I-9 Documents: Lists A, B, C Explained | Indeed Flex

Immigration Information Disclaimer

Immigration and work authorization information on this page is general guidance only, not legal advice. Immigration rules are complex, change frequently, and depend on individual circumstances. For decisions about your status, documents, or eligibility, consult a licensed immigration attorney or a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representative.

How Do Lists A, B, and C Work?

The USCIS acceptable documents are organized into three lists:

List A: Identity AND Work Authorization (choose one)

These documents prove both who you are and that you're authorized to work. If you have a List A document, you only need to present that single document.

List B: Identity Only (used with List C)

These documents prove identity only and must be paired with a List C document.

List C: Work Authorization Only (used with List B)

These documents prove you can work in the U.S. but do not prove identity. They must be paired with a List B document.

Option	Documents Needed

Indeed Flex Career Content Team

Last updated: April 12, 2026

Reviewed by Indeed Flex Editorial Board

Put Your Knowledge Into Action

Download Indeed Flex and start applying what you've learned.

Get the App Explore Career Hub

Which Documents Count as List C?

Present ONE document from List C plus one from List B:

For U.S. citizens:

Social Security Card (unrestricted)
- Most common List C document
- Must not say "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT"
- Must not say "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION"
- Must not say "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH INS AUTHORIZATION"
Birth Certificate issued by a U.S. state, territory, or possession
- Original or certified copy with official seal
- Hospital souvenir certificates are not accepted
Certification of Birth Abroad (Form FS-545)
Certification of Report of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-240)

Other List C examples:

Certain DHS-issued work authorization documents listed by USCIS
Some Forms I-94 in qualifying situations
Certain citizenship or naturalization documents

Social Security Card Restrictions:

Card Type	Says	Can Use as List C?
Unrestricted	Nothing extra	✓ Yes
Restricted	"VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION"	✗ No
Restricted	"VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH INS AUTHORIZATION"	✗ No
Not for employment	"NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT"	✗ No

USCIS is clear that cards with those restrictions are not acceptable as List C documents.

Which Document Combinations Are Easiest?

Here are the most practical options for most workers:

Option 1: U.S. Passport (Easiest)

Single document covers everything
No need to find multiple documents
Cost: $165 for adult book, $65 for card only
Processing: 6-8 weeks (or 2-3 weeks expedited)

Option 2: Driver's License + Social Security Card (Most Common)

Documents most workers already have
Cost: Usually already obtained
Make sure SSN card doesn't say "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT"

Option 3: State ID + Birth Certificate

Good if you don't have Social Security card handy
State ID: $10-30 at DMV
Birth certificate: Request from vital records office (~$15-30)

Option 4: Green Card (For Permanent Residents)

Single document covers everything
Must be unexpired
Renewal takes months. Plan ahead

Option 5: EAD Card (For Work Permit Holders)

Single document if unexpired
Shows work authorization category
Start renewal 180 days before expiration

Quick Decision Guide:

If You Are...	Best Option
U.S. Citizen with passport	U.S. Passport
U.S. Citizen without passport	Driver's License + SS Card
Permanent Resident	Green Card
Work Permit Holder	EAD Card
Waiting for documents	See Work Without SSN

List A only	1 document	U.S. Passport
List B + C	2 documents	Driver's License + unrestricted Social Security Card

How Do Lists A, B, and C Work?

Put Your Knowledge Into Action

Which Documents Count as List A?

Which Documents Count as List B?

Which Documents Count as List C?

Which Document Combinations Are Easiest?

What Should You Not Bring?

What Happens in Special Situations?

What Rights Do You Have During Document Verification?

Sources & References

Acceptable I-9 Documents: Lists A, B, C Explained

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

Keep Learning

Popular Searches