Function

• Social Security numbers are a unique set of numbers used to distinguish one American from another. It is also a way to verify age and place of birth. An ID card serves the same purpose, but is used to verify individual identity or double as a license to drive.
  
  

Features

• Social Security numbers are printed on paper cards. ID cards, however are a plastic card with a magnetic strip on the underside. Both are comprised of anti-fraud watermarks and other devices. The number issued for the ID card is not the same as the number issued as the Social Security number.
  
  

Requirements

• A Social Security card and a birth certificate or other form of identification is needed to obtain an ID card. To obtain a Social Security card, however, you must know the number, bring a birth certificate, passport, citizenship certification and report of the birth from your consulate. The U.S. must issue all of these documents.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Immigrants who have entered the U.S. illegally cannot receive a Social Security number, but in some states they can obtain an ID card.
  
  

Considerations

• A Social Security number and ID are required to do even the most mundane tasks, including opening a bank account, renting a movie from the video store and getting a credit card.