For many international business people, students and teachers moving to the United States this is an important question you need answered. Especially if you've moving to an area that doesn't have easy access to public transportation.

Can you buy a car without a social security number (SSN)?

Yes, in some cases you can purchase a car in the United States without a social security number. But almost all purchases over $10,000 dollars have to be reported to the Internal Revenue Service, and this means the seller will need your social security number.

In order to finance or lease a vehicle you must have a social security number. You can be approved for a lease or financing without a SSN, but you will need one in the end in order to take possession of the vehicle.

A student doesn't require the social security number as an exception from the bank. But if you're not a student and you're from another country besides the U.S., then a social security number is required for delivery, but not approval.

At International AutoSource, you can begin the process to finance, purchase, or lease a vehicle without a Social Security Number (SSN). This means you can start the purchase of your vehicle before arriving in the United States and receiving your Social Security Number. But eventually you will be required to provide your new Social Security Number to International AutoSource to complete your purchase.

Whether you are financing it or paying cash for your new car, you're going to need a social security number. Expatriates, foreign nationals, international students or relocating employees all will usually need to buy a car once they get to the United States. When you go to a dealer without credit history and try to get a loan or purchase an automobile, you will need to have a SSN. International AutoSource can help you with all of this so that you will be able to buy a car in America.

Why is a Social Security Number Needed to Buy a Car?

Why is a SSN Needed to Buy a Car?Even if you pay cash for a new vehicle, you will be required to show the provider your SSN. Reason being, almost all purchases over $10,000 dollars have to be reported to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), to do that the vehicle distributor will need your SSN.

Can you get a loan without a Social Security Number?

No.

Can you get a driver's license without an SSN?

Yes, depending on the state, you can get a social security number. Since this is decided on a state-by-state basis, you'll need to check with the state in which you're buying the car.

Can you get car insurance without an Social Security Number?

Yes.

How long does it usually take to get a SSN in the U.S.?

You have to typically wait 10 days after you have arrived in the U.S. for homeland security to update your records, then you can apply for a social security number. It typically takes between 2-4 weeks to receive your new social security number after you apply.

Can you buy a car without a social security number?

What is a Social Security Number?

In the United States, a Social Security Number, often abbreviated to SSN, is a nine-digit number given to citizens, temporary or working residents, and permanent residents of the United States. The number is issued to individuals on a Social Security card as a way of identification, while also tracking income, benefits, and credit history. The Social Security card with your SSN is a small paper card about the size of an American credit card.

Expats need a Social Security Number to establish an identity in the United States. Your Social Security Number will be asked of you in many different scenarios throughout your stay in the United States.

To learn more about obtaining a social security number, check out our two-part series : Social Security Numbers for Expats

Part 1 –What is a Social Security Number & Why Do Expats Need it?
Part 2 – How to Get Your Social Security Number

Diplomat Car Sales Information

Expat Relocation Guide

Student Expat Car Sales

Contact International AutoSource today to learn how you can finance, purchase, or lease a vehicle without a Social Security Number (SSN).