<p>The law requires proof of eligibility to work. A green card, social security card, or passport all qualify.</p>
<p>I don't allow my kids to carry their SS cards; I don't carry mine. I do encourage them to keep their passports handy. Passports are a lot easier to replace and don't allow anywhere near as much identity theft as an SS card.</p>
<p>So... I'm gathering that if one's parents are absolutely against one bringing one's SS card and passport to college because there is, of course, a tiny chance it MIGHT get stolen, this would be bad for her... No argument seems to convince them...</p>
<p>Then they're idiots and they don't want their child to work.</p>
<p>No, no. Don't take your SS card; do take your passport. A passport is easier to replace and causes less damage. And, if you have your passport, you can go to Canada or Mexico or even Europe on short notice. (Has everyone noticed that airfares to Europe--esp. England--are dirt-cheap right now?)</p>
<p>Actually - if the student is 18 - he/she has the RIGHT to take which ever he/she wants - if parents are not willing to relenquish these items to the student- just go to the SS office and get one of your own. Parents have no legal right to with hold these items from the student............... we have only on agreement with our student regarding the pass port - otherwise - our kiddo has all documentation - originals - with her. We just keep copies of them - just in case.</p>