Important Documents

Identification Documents

In many countries, the law requires every person to carry an identity card at all times. There is no such requirement in the United States. As such, there is no national identity card. An identity document of some kind is often needed, though, especially to cash checks or to pay for purchases with personal checks. A passport may be offered as proof of identity as well, but it might not always be honored if there is no English translation. Most Americans use a driver's license as an identity card. An official Pennsylvania Identity Card may also serve as proof of identity. Once you arrive on campus, you'll be provided information on the Pennsylvania Identity Card which many students use as proof of age.

Social Security Number (SSN)

International students who are permitted to work on or off-campus must obtain a Social Security number. International students who do not have permission to work are also required to obtain the Social Security number, as the Social Security Act permits state and local governments to use the Social Security number to administer laws related to:

• Taxes
• General public assistance
• Driver Licensing
• Motor Vehicle Registration

The International Student Advisor will help students obtain a Social Security number during orientation week. Your SSN is a confidential number; DO NOT let anyone else use it for any reason!!!! You should be careful when releasing it to other parties (e.g., credit card companies, your physician). That is, make sure you are releasing it to a reliable person/organization (in contrast, don't release it over the phone to some one offering you an unbelievable deal).

Driver's License

It is always advisable that international students obtain an international driver's license in order to drive while in the United States. An International Driver's License is valid for only one year in Pennsylvania. It is very important to know that driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal. When an international student violates this law, it will be put on his/her record and Immigration will be notified by local police. In addition, it is important to know that Pennsylvania State Law allows only individuals 21 years of age and over to drink alcoholic beverages. It is judged as a misdemeanor for one to drink under age.

Student Identification Card (InstaGator)

All Allegheny students are assigned a student identification number as soon as they are offered admission. This number appears with the studentÕs photograph on the student identification card (obtained during orientation week). This card may be used for identification purposes, shopping and vending on campus, and as a proof of your connection with Allegheny College.

See Appendices for Immigration Information