Are These Documents Acceptable for I-9?
Select a document or combination and get an instant answer based on the official USCIS I-9 acceptable documents list (Rev. 08/01/23).
Researched by the I9AuditReady Research Team
Last Updated: April 2026
For I-9 Section 2, employees must present either one List A document (proving both identity and employment authorization) or one List B document combined with one List C document. Presenting a List A document along with List B or List C constitutes over-documentation and is not acceptable under USCIS I-9 instructions.
Document Selection
Does the employee have a List A document?
List A documents prove both identity and employment authorization. List B + C must be presented together.
Select a document combination to check if it's valid for I-9 Section 2
Start by indicating whether the employee has a List A document.
Disclaimer: This tool is based on USCIS Form I-9 instructions (Rev. 08/01/23) and is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Document acceptability rules may change with new USCIS guidance. Always consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation. I9AuditReady is not a law firm.
I-9 Acceptable Documents — Key Facts
List A documents
7 types
USCIS I-9 Instructions (Rev. 08/01/23)
List B documents
9 types
USCIS I-9 Instructions (Rev. 08/01/23)
List C documents
8 types
USCIS I-9 Instructions (Rev. 08/01/23)
Receipt validity
90 days
8 CFR § 274a.2(b)(1)(vi)
For I-9 Section 2, employees must present either one List A document — which proves both identity and employment authorization — or one List B document combined with one List C document. Presenting a List A document together with List B or List C constitutes over-documentation and is not acceptable under USCIS I-9 instructions.
Employers cannot require specific documents. An employee who presents a valid U.S. Passport is not required to also present a Social Security card. Requiring more documents than the minimum required may constitute immigration-related employment discrimination under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b.
A receipt for a replacement document (lost, stolen, or damaged) is acceptable as a temporary stand-in for List A, B, or C for 90 days. The actual document must be presented within that period.
Frequently Asked Questions About I-9 Documents
What documents are acceptable for Form I-9?
Acceptable I-9 documents fall into three lists. List A documents (such as a U.S. Passport, Permanent Resident Card, or EAD) prove both identity and employment authorization and can be used alone. List B documents (such as a state driver's license) prove identity only. List C documents (such as a Social Security Card or U.S. birth certificate) prove employment authorization only. List B and List C must be used together.
Can an employer require a specific document for I-9 verification?
No. Employers cannot require specific documents — the employee chooses what to present from the acceptable lists. Requiring specific documents or refusing to accept a valid document can constitute immigration-related employment discrimination under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b.
Can an employer accept a List A document together with List B or List C?
No. This is called over-documentation and is not permitted. An employer must accept either a List A document alone, or a List B document combined with a List C document. Requiring more documents than necessary may itself constitute employment discrimination.
Are receipts acceptable for I-9 verification?
Yes, temporarily. A receipt for a lost, stolen, or damaged document that is an acceptable List A, B, or C document can be used for up to 90 days. The employee must present the actual document within that 90-day period. Receipts for initial issuance of a new document are not acceptable as temporary receipts.
See also: Full Documents Reference, Reverification Checker, and I-9 Fine Calculator.
I9AuditReady provides compliance tracking tools and informational resources — not legal advice. It is not a law firm and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Document acceptability rules are based on USCIS Form I-9 instructions (Rev. 08/01/23) and may change with updated USCIS guidance. Always consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.