Au Pair Info
The Social Security Administration will issue a “Valid for Work Only With DHS Authorization” social security card to any au pair/companion participating in a Department of State authorized au pair program. To apply for a restricted working social security card, an au pair must go in person to the local social security office in her community. (Find the closest social security office). She must wait at least twelve days after her arrival in the United States and bring the following documents:
- Valid passport
- DS 2019 form
- White I-94 card
- Proof of identification that is at least one year old (e.g. passport, driver’s license, birth certificate)
Social Security will verify the au pair’s status with SEVIS before a social security card number can be assigned.
If there is a discrepancy with information, the social security office may deny the au pair a social security card and would request a manual verification of data, which would take additional time.
If the social security office says that they cannot issue a social security card and returns the application and documents, please call Evelyn Blum at Au Pair in America, (800) 928 -7247, ext. 5027, or e-mail eblum@aifs.com for further assistance.
How to obtain a DC Driver’s license
Non-US Citizens may obtain a DC driver’s license if they have a minimum of six (6) months duration of stay in the United States. The DC driver’s license will expire with the US duration of stay.
If you have an out-of-country driver’s license, Non-US citizens who possess a valid out-of-country driver’s license may obtain a DC driver’s license while maintaining their out-of-country driver’s license. A DC driver’s license may vary for non-US citizens, depending on visa classification. The written test is required for non-US Citizens even those who possess an out-of-country driver’s license. The road test is not required for those who have a valid out-of-country driver’s license. You do not have to relinquish your out-of-country driver’s license to the DC DMV. A certified translation is required for out-of-country driver’s licenses that are not written in English.
Here is a directory of Translators:
http://www.ncata.org/
Steps
Complete the Driver’s License Application* -download it from http://dmv.dc.gov/info/forms/dl-app_pdf.shtm
Provide the required documents (see below)
Take and pass the vision screening test
Take and pass a knowledge test.
Pay the appropriate fees
Obtain your DC driver’s license.
Requirements –Bring these to the DMV with you:
You have Proof of Name, Date of Birth and US duration of stay/status (passport)
You have Proof of Social Security Number (card)
You have Proof of DC Residency
Your host family needs to provide proof of your residence:
letter stating that you live at their address,
an original, latest utility bill with the same name as the letter,
a copy of a DC drivers license with the same Host Father/mother name.
Bring money to pay for the license.
You have met the testing requirement for obtaining a DC Driver’s license
You need your country license (and possibly a translation of it)
You have no outstanding debts to the District of Columbia or unpaid fines for moving traffic violations in other jurisdictions
To obtain a driver’s license, you must visit our service center at Georgetown Park Mall, 3222 M Street, NW, Lower Level, Washington, DC 20007, non-US citizens can only get your license at the Georgetown DMV.
Tuesday through Saturday schedule: 8:15 am – 4 pm
Free Tax Assistance
During tax season, the DC Earned Income Tax Credit (DC EITC) Campaign offers free tax preparation assistance at sites throughout the DC region. Call “211 Answers, Please” or 202-463-6211 or visit www.dceitc.org to find a free site near you. The Campaign also offers outreach materials on the EITC and free tax preparation options.
