THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU FIRST REACH USA
OK, now you’ve landed in USA. Now what? What are your next steps? Here’s a list of the three most important things you need to obtain at your earliest convenience after your arrival to the States.
1) Obtain a Social Security Number
When you first reach U.S., the first and foremost thing that you need to apply for is Social Security Card. You need a Social Security number to get a job, collect Social Security benefits and get some other government services. But you don't often need to show your Social Security card. Do not carry your card with you. Keep it in a safe place with your other important papers. Make sure you remember your Social Security Number.
For more details please go to https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/
2) Non driver ID card
When you first reach U.S, you may not have a car. It may take some time to get a driver’s license. In order to get a driver’s license you are required to take tests. While you are planning to give driving’s test and get a driver’s license we would recommend you to get a non-driver’s ID card. It doesn’t take long to get a non-driver’s license. A person at any age can get a non-driver ID card. Having the non-driver ID card will help you tremendously in U.S. Sometimes, in certain places, the Indian Driver’s license won’t be accepted and you don’t want to keep carrying your Indian Passport or a copy of your passport in your wallet everywhere.
To obtain a non-driver ID card, you must apply at a Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) office. You will receive a temporary non-photo document at the DMV office. Allow two weeks to receive your photo document in the mail.
Although the DMV office at different state may require different documents from you, usually below the documents that they ask for:
- A completed Application for Non-driver ID Card (Go to the DMV’s website and download this application form)
- Acceptable proof of identity and date of birth (Passport, Birth Certificate etc)
- Your original Social Security Card
- Payment for the fee
3) Mobile Phone
Everybody needs a communication tool to be able to keep in touch with family and friends. Please visit your nearest cell phone store to set up your service.