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Why do I have to give my SSN when I apply for a marriage license?

By , About.com Guide

Question: Why do I have to give my SSN when I apply for a marriage license?
Many people wonder why they have to give their Social Security Number (SSN) when they apply for a marriage license when foreigners aren't required to do so.

Foreigners who apply for a marriage license in the United States do have to show their passports.

Answer: In the United States, you have to give your Social Security Number (SSN) because it is a federal law.

Title 42 USC Chapter 7, Subchapter IV, Part D, Sec. 666(a)(13) was enacted in 1996. This law requires Social Security Numbers to be recorded for "any applicant for a professional license, driver's license, occupational license, recreational license or marriage license."

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