Based on the USCIS list of acceptable documents, last reviewed October 5, 2026. See the USCIS page.
For employers: you cannot choose the document
Employers cannot require a particular document, or a particular set of documents. The Department of Justice says employers "can't specify which documents they will accept from a worker," and that an employer "must allow its workers to choose which documents to show from the Form I-9 Lists of Acceptable Documents." The USCIS handbook says: "Do not require an employee who presents a List A document to present List B and List C documents."
This page lists what is acceptable. It is not a list of what to bring. Sources: Department of Justice, Immigrant and Employee Rights FAQs and USCIS Handbook for Employers, M-274.
How the three lists work
List A documents show both identity and work authorization, so one is enough. List B documents show identity only. List C documents show work authorization only. A List B document must be paired with a List C document.
The documents must be unexpired. Some List A documents have conditions, such as the endorsement period on a foreign passport with an I-94. The checker shows USCIS's note when you tick one.
What this page does not cover
It does not cover filing deadlines, E-Verify, remote or alternative document examination, reverification, record retention or penalties. For those, use USCIS I-9 Central.
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. The lists change, so check the USCIS page for the current version.
What is Form I-9?
Form I-9 is the form US employers use to verify the identity and work authorization of each new employee. The employee shows documents from the lists published by USCIS, and the employer records what was shown.
Which documents are acceptable for Form I-9?
Either one document from List A, which shows both identity and work authorization, or one document from List B, which shows identity, plus one document from List C, which shows work authorization.
Can an employer tell you which document to bring?
No. The Department of Justice says employers can't specify which documents they will accept from a worker, and that an employer must allow its workers to choose which documents to show from the Lists of Acceptable Documents.
What if a document was lost, stolen or damaged?
A receipt for a replacement of a lost, stolen or damaged document can be presented for a temporary period instead of the document. USCIS lists receipt validity dates in section 4.4 of the Handbook for Employers, M-274.
Is a Social Security card acceptable?
An unrestricted Social Security card that is not laminated is a List C document and needs a List B document with it. A card marked NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT, or limited to work with INS or DHS authorization, is not acceptable as List C.