At Louisville Beauty Academy, a Kentucky state-licensed and state-accredited beauty college, our mission is to empower our students with the knowledge they need to succeed. For documented immigrants pursuing their beauty education, securing a Kentucky state ID is a vital step toward establishing residency, accessing services, and advancing their careers. This comprehensive guide is tailored for documented immigrants—those legally present in the U.S.—and outlines the exact requirements and steps to obtain a state ID in Kentucky as of March 1, 2025. Whether you hold a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) with an SSN ineligibility letter, we cover everything from definitions of immigration statuses to detailed processes, required documents, and references.
Why a Kentucky State ID is Essential for Documented Immigrants
A state ID serves as more than just identification—it’s a key to banking, housing, and, potentially, professional licensing in Kentucky. At Louisville Beauty Academy, we recognize that documented immigrants, including those with work authorization (SSN holders) and those without (ITIN holders), need clear guidance to navigate this process. Kentucky adheres to federal REAL ID Act standards, requiring proof of identity, lawful presence, and residency. Below, we divide the guide into two categories: Documented Immigrants with SSN and Documented Immigrants with ITIN and SSN Ineligibility.
Definitions of Immigration Statuses
To clarify eligibility, here are definitions of the statuses covered:
- F-1 Student: A nonimmigrant visa for individuals enrolled in academic programs at U.S. institutions. Work authorization (e.g., OPT, CPT) is optional and requires approval.
- H-1B Worker: A nonimmigrant visa for professionals in specialty occupations (e.g., technology, education) with employer sponsorship and work authorization.
- H-4 Dependent: A nonimmigrant visa for spouses or children under 21 of H-1B holders, typically without work authorization unless an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is obtained.
- J-1 Exchange Visitor: A nonimmigrant visa for participants in exchange programs (e.g., scholars, trainees) with varying work authorization based on sponsor approval.
- J-2 Dependent: A nonimmigrant visa for spouses or children of J-1 holders, eligible for work with an EAD but not automatically authorized.
- L-1 Transferee: A nonimmigrant visa for employees transferred within multinational companies, with work authorization.
Bucket 1: Documented Immigrants with SSN – Work-Authorized Individuals
This category includes documented immigrants with visas that permit work, enabling them to obtain an SSN and use it to secure a Kentucky state ID.
Who Qualifies?
- F-1 Students with OPT/CPT: Students approved for Optional Practical Training (post-graduation) or Curricular Practical Training (during studies).
- H-1B Workers: Professionals in specialized fields with employer sponsorship.
- J-1 Exchange Visitors with Work Authorization: Participants with sponsor-approved work (e.g., internships).
- L-1 Transferees: Intra-company transferees with work permission.
Step 1: Obtain a Social Security Number (SSN)—The Starting Point
An SSN is required for work-authorized immigrants and is a cornerstone for obtaining a state ID.
SSN Requirements
- Work Authorization: Visa must allow employment (e.g., OPT EAD, H-1B approval).
- Documents Needed:
- Valid foreign passport.
- Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) from cbp.gov.
- Visa-specific document: Form I-20 + EAD (F-1 OPT), I-797 (H-1B), DS-2019 (J-1), or L-1 approval notice.
- Employer letter verifying employment (e.g., from a salon or Louisville Beauty Academy for CPT).
Steps to Get an SSN
- Arrive in the U.S.:
- Enter with your visa and retrieve your I-94 online.
- Wait 10 days for immigration records to update in SSA systems.
- Gather Documents:
- Ensure your passport is current.
- Collect your visa document and employer letter.
- Apply at SSA Office:
- Receive SSN:
- SSN card arrives by mail in 2-4 weeks.
Reference: Social Security Number and Card | SSA
Step 2: Obtain a Kentucky State ID
With an SSN, the state ID process is straightforward.
Required Documents
- Proof of Identity: Valid passport.
- Proof of Legal Presence: Visa document (e.g., I-20, I-797) + I-94.
- SSN: SSN card or payroll stub showing SSN.
- Kentucky Residency: Two documents (e.g., utility bill, lease, bank statement) with your Louisville address.
Exact Steps to Get a State ID
- Prepare Documentation:
- Substep 1a: Bring your passport and visa documents upon arrival.
- Substep 1b: Receive your SSN card (2-4 weeks after SSA application).
- Substep 1c: Secure two residency proofs within 60 days (e.g., a Louisville utility bill).
- Complete Application Form:
- Substep 2a: Download Form TC 94-152 (Non-U.S. Citizen Application) from drive.ky.gov.
- Substep 2b: Enter your name, address, SSN, and visa details.
- Visit a KYTC Regional Office:
- Substep 3a: Go to a Louisville-area office (e.g., check drive.ky.gov for locations).
- Substep 3b: Submit original documents; photocopies are not accepted.
- Substep 3c: Hand over Form TC 94-152 to the clerk.
- Pay the Fee:
- Substep 4a: Pay $10 (4-year non-REAL ID) or $15 (8-year non-REAL ID) via cash, check, or card.
- Substep 4b: Opt for REAL ID ($15/$20) for federal use (e.g., domestic flights) if needed.
- Receive Your ID:
- Substep 5a: Provide your Louisville mailing address.
- Substep 5b: Expect delivery in approximately 15 business days.
Timeframe: Apply for your SSN within 10 days of arrival and your state ID once you have your SSN and residency proof (typically within 30-60 days). No two-year residency requirement applies.
Reference: REAL ID – DRIVE
Bucket 2: Documented Immigrants with ITIN and SSN Ineligibility Letter
This category includes documented immigrants legally present but not authorized to work, requiring an ITIN and proof of SSN ineligibility for a Kentucky state ID.
Who Qualifies?
- F-1 Students (No OPT/CPT): Full-time students without work authorization.
- H-4 Dependents: Spouses or children of H-1B workers without an EAD.
- J-1 Visitors (No Work Permission): Exchange participants without sponsor-approved work.
- J-2 Dependents (No EAD): Dependents of J-1 holders without work authorization.
Step 1: Obtain an ITIN and Prove SSN Ineligibility
Without work authorization, these immigrants need an ITIN for taxes and an SSN ineligibility letter for the state ID process.
ITIN Requirements
- Purpose: Tax filing (e.g., scholarships, dependent status).
- Documents Needed:
- Valid foreign passport.
- Visa document (e.g., I-20, DS-2019).
- Form W-7 (ITIN Application) with a federal tax return (unless exempt).
Steps to Get an ITIN
- Arrive in the U.S.:
- Enter with your visa and obtain your I-94.
- Prepare Documents:
- Substep 2a: Verify your passport’s validity.
- Substep 2b: Gather your visa document (e.g., I-20 from Louisville Beauty Academy).
- Apply for ITIN:
- Substep 3a: Complete Form W-7 (available at irs.gov).
- Substep 3b: Attach a tax return (e.g., Form 1040NR) or qualify for an exception (e.g., dependent filing).
- Substep 3c: Mail to IRS ITIN Operation, P.O. Box 149342, Austin, TX 78714, or use a Certified Acceptance Agent.
- Receive ITIN:
- ITIN letter arrives in 6-8 weeks.
Reference: Individual Taxpayer Identification Number | IRS
Proving SSN Ineligibility
- Option 1: ITIN Letter: The IRS ITIN assignment letter indicates SSN ineligibility.
- Option 2: SSN Denial Letter:
- Visit an SSA office (e.g., 601 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202).
- Bring your passport and visa documents.
- Request a denial letter confirming no work authorization (issued immediately or within days).
Reference: Social Security Number and Card | SSA
Step 2: Obtain a Kentucky State ID
With an ITIN and SSN ineligibility proof, you can apply for a state ID.
Required Documents
- Proof of Identity: Valid passport.
- Proof of Legal Presence:
- F-1: Form I-20 + enrollment letter from Louisville Beauty Academy.
- H-4: Spouse’s H-1B visa, I-94, and pay stub.
- J-1: Form DS-2019.
- J-2: J-1’s DS-2019 + dependent’s I-94.
- SSN Ineligibility: ITIN letter or SSN denial letter.
- Kentucky Residency: Two documents (e.g., utility bill, lease).
Exact Steps to Get a State ID
- Prepare Documentation:
- Substep 1a: Secure your passport and visa documents.
- Substep 1b: Obtain your ITIN (6-8 weeks) or SSN denial letter (immediate from SSA).
- Substep 1c: Collect two residency proofs (e.g., Louisville lease).
- Complete Application Form:
- Substep 2a: Download Form TC 94-152 from drive.ky.gov.
- Substep 2b: Indicate ITIN or SSN ineligibility in the SSN section.
- Visit a KYTC Regional Office:
- Substep 3a: Visit a Louisville-area office (see drive.ky.gov).
- Substep 3b: Submit original documents.
- Pay the Fee:
- Substep 4a: Pay $10/$15 (non-REAL ID) or $15/$20 (REAL ID) with cash, check, or card.
- Receive Your ID:
- Substep 5a: Provide your mailing address.
- Substep 5b: Expect delivery in ~15 business days.
Timeframe: Apply for an ITIN or SSN denial letter shortly after arrival; obtain your state ID once residency is established (30-60 days). No two-year residency requirement exists.
Reference: Apply for a New Kentucky Identification Card | DMV.ORG
Key Takeaways for Louisville Beauty Academy Students
- SSN Holders: If you have work authorization, secure an SSN first—it’s faster and universally accepted for IDs.
- ITIN Holders: If you lack work authorization, an ITIN plus an SSN ineligibility letter (from IRS or SSA) meets Kentucky’s requirements for documented immigrants.
- Undocumented Immigrants: Kentucky does not issue IDs to undocumented individuals, even with an ITIN, due to lawful presence rules.
- Academy Support: Visit our student services office for assistance with forms, directions to local SSA/KYTC offices, or additional guidance.
Legal Disclaimer
This guide is provided by Louisville Beauty Academy solely for informational purposes. Immigration laws, state ID regulations, and federal requirements are complex and subject to change. We strongly advise all documented immigrants to consult a qualified immigration attorney or legal counsel for personalized advice on their status, visa issues, SSN/ITIN processes, or state ID applications. The information presented reflects general guidelines as of March 1, 2025, based on publicly available sources, but individual circumstances may differ. Louisville Beauty Academy is not liable for actions taken based on this information without professional legal consultation.
