why do i have to provide my social security number when taking an online driver safety course

by Prof. Leilani Bergnaum 8 min read

Various online resources say that Uber does require its drivers to have an SSN. That’s because a background check is conducted whenever someone applies to become a driver. Since the SSN serves as an identification tool, it is inherently required by the company.

Full Answer

Should I provide my Social Security number?

Let’s tackle those questions one by one. Yes, you should provide your SSN … sometimes. When you’re applying for a loan or a new credit card, for instance, you’ll need to provide your SSN so they can run a credit check. Same goes with applying for government benefits, from unemployment to Medicare, and when you go to the DMV.

Is the Social Security number printed on the driver’s license?

Is the social security number printed on the driver’s license, learner’s permit or photo identification card? No. PennDOT does not include the social security number on any of our products. The magnetic stripe and bar codes on the reverse side of the driver’s license/photo ID only contain the same information that is on the front. 5.

Why does PennDOT need my Social Security number?

The use of the social security number by driver licensing agencies is critical to prevent identification fraud and to ensure highway safety. Therefore, federal law specifically allows states to collect the information. 3. Will PennDOT give out this information? No.

How do auto insurance companies use your Social Security number?

One of the ways that an auto insurance provider will use your Social Security number is by initiating a credit history check. In addition, they may use it to locate any criminal records that you may have.

Can I refuse to give my Social Security number?

Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone's number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law.

Should you ever give your Social Security number online?

Don't Send Your SSN via an Electronic Device Never type your SSN into an email or instant message and send it. The majority of such messages can be intercepted and read. Also, don't leave a voicemail that includes your SSN. If you need to contact someone and give them your number, it's best to do it in person.

Why shouldn't you give out your Social Security number?

A dishonest person who has your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name.

Why do I need to put my Social Security number?

Social Security numbers (SSN) are used to report a person's wages to the government and to determine a person's eligibility for Social Security benefits. You need an SSN to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive some other government services.

Can someone access my bank account with my Social Security number?

They can use your SSN to open a bank account in your name. That means that anyone with your SSN can easily open a bank account in your name, especially if the identity thief already obtained a driver's license in your name.

Is it safe to give public my SSN?

Rest assured all your personal information is always encrypted and never accessible or visible to anyone within Public that is not licensed by FINRA to do so.

Who do I have to give my Social Security number to?

You do need to give your Social Security number (SSN) to: Your department of motor vehicles. Employers. The three main credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Federal and state agencies when applying for benefits: Social Security, Medicare, disability, Medicaid, and other aid programs`

What if my scammer has my Social Security number?

You may reach the FTC's identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft....Additional Resources:Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft.IRS Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft.FTC's Consumer Alerts.

Is it OK to give last 4 digits of SSN?

Giving someone the last four digits of your SSN could lead to identity theft as this is the direct way to do the most damage to your financial information. Why? Banks and other official institutions often only request the last four digits of your SSN to confirm your identity.

When did Social Security numbers become mandatory?

In the end, the Board got it both ways—the Post Office Department agreed to accept returned SS -5s without postage on October 8, 1936, and the Treasury Department issued the regulations making the SSN mandatory on November 6, 1936 (McKinley and Frase 1970, 351–352 and 360).

How can I find out if someone is using my identity?

What you can do to detect identity theftTrack what bills you owe and when they're due. If you stop getting a bill, that could be a sign that someone changed your billing address.Review your bills. ... Check your bank account statement. ... Get and review your credit reports.

How can Social Security identity theft occur?

This can happen if your Social Security number is stolen in a data breach, through phishing emails or by simply being written down somewhere where it can be easily accessed by others. There are a few common tactics that are used in Social Security identity theft.

Should you give out your Social Security number over the phone?

With the proliferation of phishing schemes, never give out your information in an email or over the phone. "If you're not initiating the call, you should never share your personal information," NortonLifeLock's Hanson said. "Even if it looks like it's coming from a legit company you do business with."

What can someone do with your Social Security number?

Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds, collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.

Is it OK to share last 4 digits of SSN?

Although it's important to always be safe and smart about who you're giving your SSN to, the last four numbers of the SSN are the most important to protect. For this reason, it is recommended not to share it with anyone, not to include it in emails, and not to use it as your security PIN.

Is it normal for jobs to ask for SSN?

It is legal for employers to ask for SSNs on job applications. However, candidates are not obligated to provide it if they feel uncomfortable.

Why do drivers need to have a social security number?

The use of the social security number by driver licensing agencies is critical to prevent identification fraud and to ensure highway safety. Therefore, federal law specifically allows states to collect the information. 3.

How long does it take to get a social security number?

Photocopies of documents are not acceptable. It will normally take approximately 3 weeks to receive your social security number. 6.

Why do you need a photo technician for PennDOT?

Photo technicians are required to compare your driver’s license/ID card number with the one that is maintained on the computer. This is an additional security feature to protect you, your record and other PennDOT customers from identity theft.

Is my social security number on my driver's license?

NOTE: Your social security number will only be part of your driver record. It will not be printed on any of our products.

Why do companies ask for your social security number?

Regardless of this law, most businesses ask you for your Social Security number to identify you since it is one of the easiest ways that they can positively identify who you are. In the case of an auto insurance company, it would be extremely time-consuming for them to search through a large number of state databases to locate a driver’s license ...

Do you need to tell your insurance company about your accident?

In the case of a car insurance company, you will likely need to inform them of your accident history as well as certain demographic information. Once you’ve done this with a number of different companies, it can become quite tiresome. Unfortunately, providing your Social Security number is a necessary way that you can be identified.

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