How to Prove Your Signature with a Social Security Card

Many institutions, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles, require proof of a person's signature before they will accept the application you are submitting. Opening a bank account or applying for a driver's license are two instances when signature proof is required. Fortunately, these institutions accept the signature used on your Social Security card as proof of your signature.

Follow these steps to use your Social Security Card as proof of your signature:

Step 1:
Apply for a Social Security card if you do not already have one. You can use the same form if you need to apply for a replacement card because you signed your original card when you were a child.

Step 2:
Locate the signature line on your Social Security card when it arrives. You will see the word "Signature" underneath of the line. Sign your name in cursive on the designated line. Do this with a pen. A pencil signature will fade, and using crayons or markers may make the signature unrecognizable.

Step 3:
Provide the Social Security card to individual requesting proof of your signature.

Note: You cannot sign the Social Security card in front of this individual. It must be done prior to your visit or it will not be accepted as proof of your signature.

Tips:
If you have any questions about your Social Security card and how it works, contact the Social Security Administration by calling 800-772-1213.

Warnings:
Require your children to wait to sign their Social Security cards until they enter high school. Otherwise, their handwriting may change and the signature will not match an application made when it comes time to apply for a license.

References:
Social Security Administration: The Current Social Security Card
Driver Safety Pro: ID
Social Security: Social Security Number Application