Social Security
A Social Security number is an identification number required for working in the US. If you plan to engage in lawful employment, you will need to obtain a Social Security number. You must have proof of employment to obtain a Social Security number. Regulations for On Campus Employment.
Although students authorized to work must obtain a Social Security card, contributions for Social Security and Medi-Cal should not be withheld from wages. Be sure to inform your employer before beginning employment.
It is not necessary to have a social security number to open a bank account. The Social Security office will not issue you a social security card for banking purposes. You should obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The form to obtain an ITIN number can be obtained from the bank or the IRS website at www.irs.gov
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) normally requires a Social Security number to obtain a California Driver's License; however, international students are not eligible to obtain a number for this purpose. If the DMV tells you that a Social Security number is required, you must tell them you are not eligible for a number. They should then allow you to proceed with your application.
There are several locations of Social Security offices in San Diego. The office closest to SDSU is located at 7961 University Avenue in La Mesa.