NSS-1A vs. SSA-L676: Which One Do You Need for Your NY License?

Two different documents solve two different Social Security problems at the New York DMV, and it is easy to grab the wrong one. Form NSS-1A and the SSA’s Form SSA-L676 both let you move forward without a Social Security number, but they exist for opposite situations.

NSS-1A: you were never issued a number

NSS-1A, the Affidavit Stating No Social Security Number, is for someone who has simply never gone through the Social Security Administration’s process at all and has no number to report. It’s a sworn statement you (or your notary) prepare, and it has to be witnessed, notarized if you’re mailing your application, or witnessed by a Motor Vehicle Representative if you apply in person.

SSA-L676: you applied and the SSA turned you down

SSA-L676, sometimes called a Social Security number denial or ineligibility letter, comes directly from the Social Security Administration. You get it by applying for a number at an SSA field office and being told you’re not eligible for one, often because of immigration status. The SSA hands or mails you this letter as proof of that determination.

Because SSA-L676 is issued directly by a federal agency on their own letterhead, it does not get notarized, there’s nothing to notarize, it’s already an official government record of the SSA’s decision. You simply submit the letter itself to the DMV.

How to tell which one you need

Ask yourself one question: have you ever applied for a Social Security number? If no, and you’ve simply never gone through the process, NSS-1A is your form, and it needs a notary or MVR witness. If yes, and the SSA told you that you’re not eligible, you need SSA-L676 from the SSA directly, not NSS-1A, and no notary is involved on your end.

Applying for the wrong one wastes a trip. If you’re not sure which situation applies to you, a call to the Social Security Administration will tell you quickly whether you have ever been assigned a number.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reflects our understanding of current DMV and SSA policy. Confirm current requirements directly with the DMV and SSA before you apply.