The first few weeks in the US are a maze of formalities. Without a Social Security number, it’s hard to get a job or a loan; without a driver’s license, daily life outside a big city is difficult; and without a bank account, money remains “under the pillow.” The good news: these matters can be handled one by one, and a significant portion of the procedures are free. Below, we explain where to start and how to proceed.
Where to start after arrival?
Although every situation is different, in practice, it’s worth organizing matters in a logical order. First, the Social Security number (if you are eligible), as it’s needed for a REAL ID driver’s license and is sometimes required by banks. Then, a driver’s license or state ID – this is a basic document for daily life. Finally, a bank account, for which both an identity document and an identification number will be useful.
Important note: many of these procedures vary between states, and requirements depend on your immigration status. Treat the following as a roadmap for the first steps, and confirm details with official sources for your specific state.
Social Security Number (SSN) – who gets it and how
An SSN is generally issued to individuals authorized to work in the USA – this includes Green Card holders and many people on work visas or with employment authorization. If you do not have employment authorization, an ITIN, which we describe below, often replaces it for many matters (e.g., for a bank account).
The application is submitted on Form SS-5, available on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website. You must present original documents proving identity, immigration status with work authorization, and age – photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted. Typically, an appointment is made at a local SSA office by calling the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213.
Two things are worth remembering. First, obtaining the card is completely free – anyone who charges you “for issuing an SSN” is a scammer. Second, the card usually takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive after the application is processed; applications submitted by mail can take longer, usually 2 to 4 weeks.
Driver’s License and State ID – what about REAL ID?
Driver’s licenses are issued by a state agency (most often called the DMV), and rules vary by state. In most states, to obtain a driver’s license, you must provide proof of your identity, age, and legal residency. However, there are exceptions – for example, New York and Illinois allow you to apply for a driver’s license regardless of immigration status.
As of May 7, 2025, federal enforcement of the REAL ID standard will be in effect. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID (marked with a star) is required for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings, among other things. As of February 1, 2026, the lack of a REAL ID will no longer result in a flight ban – TSA will allow additional identity verification (ConfirmID) for a fee of $45, valid for a 10-day travel period. To obtain a REAL ID-compliant document, the DMV typically requires: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of residential address, and proof of legal status. If you do not need the REAL ID version, a regular driver’s license or state ID, which has more limited use, is available in many states.
If you do not intend to drive, consider a State ID – it is issued by the same agency and serves as official photo identification, useful for many formalities.
Bank Account – is an SSN needed?
Contrary to popular belief, an SSN is not always necessary to open a bank account in the USA. Many banks will open an account based on another identification number or just an identity document. If you don’t have an SSN, you can often provide an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in its place – a tax number for individuals not eligible for an SSN.
To verify identity, banks usually ask for one or two documents, such as a valid passport, driver’s license (including foreign ones), or a consular document. Among large banks that accept ITINs for opening accounts are Bank of America, Chase, Citibank, Wells Fargo, and PNC. In practice, accounts are usually opened in person at a branch with a complete set of documents.
The ITIN is obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and a Polish-speaking accountant can assist with obtaining it and filing taxes – you can find such specialists, as well as advisors and service companies for the Polish community, in the directory on PolishPages.com.
Phone and US number to start
A US phone number is useful from day one – for registering with government offices, contacting the bank, or job searching. The simplest way is a prepaid plan, which usually does not require a Social Security number or a credit history check – just an identity document. Postpaid plans can be more cost-effective per month, but carriers often require an SSN and check creditworthiness, so prepaid plans are usually more convenient to start with.
Credit History – start building it immediately
In the USA, many things – renting an apartment, a car loan, favorable interest rates, and sometimes even a phone subscription – depend on your credit history and credit score. A new arrival starts with no history, which can be as problematic as a bad one, because institutions have no way to assess your reliability. A good first step is a secured card, where you deposit funds that set your spending limit, and regular, timely payments gradually build your credit profile. Over time, this opens the door to regular credit cards and better loan terms.
In a nutshell
- Order: first SSN (if eligible), then driver’s license/ID, finally bank account.
- SSN: Form SS-5, original documents, visit to SSA (tel. 1-800-772-1213). Obtaining it is free; you will receive the card within 7–14 business days.
- Driver’s License: rules vary by state; REAL ID (effective May 7, 2025) requires SSN and two proofs of address, among other requirements. Without REAL ID, flying is possible, but for a TSA ConfirmID fee ($45). Not driving? Consider a State ID.
- Bank Account: An SSN is not always required – banks accept an ITIN or a passport; accounts are usually opened at a branch.
- Also, to start: a phone number (prepaid, without SSN) and building credit history (e.g., a secured card).
- Note: procedures vary between states – confirm details with official sources.
The first official steps in a new country can be stressful, but each one is a task to check off in turn. Once you’ve handled your SSN, driver’s license, and bank account, most daily matters become much simpler.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Requirements vary by state and depend on immigration status – current rules can be checked on the official websites of the SSA (ssa.gov), your local DMV, and the TSA (REAL ID), and individual matters should be consulted with a specialist.
Based on official materials from the Social Security Administration (Form SS-5), Transportation Security Administration (REAL ID), and bank information on opening accounts for non-residents.
📱 Download the PolishPages app:
App Store (iPhone) | Google Play (Android)
Author: Bartosz Karczmarski · Poland.us / Głos Polonii · July 7, 2026
