- Form I-9 is required to verify identity and employment authorization in the U.S.
- Documents are divided into List A, List B, and List C.
- List A = Identity + Work Authorization (single document)
- List B + List C = Required together if List A is not provided
- Only unexpired documents are acceptable
- Printable PDF helps employers and employees complete verification easily
What is the List of Acceptable Documents for I-9?
The list of acceptable documents for I-9 ( 2026 ) is an official set of documents used in the United States to verify an employee’s identity and legal authorization to work. This process is mandatory under federal law for all employers.
Understanding these document categories helps avoid errors during hiring and ensures compliance with employment regulations.
List A Documents (Identity + Employment Authorization)
List A documents establish both identity and work authorization. If an employee provides one valid document from this list, no additional documents are required.
Accepted List A Documents
- U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
- Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
- Foreign passport with temporary I-551 stamp or notation
- Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)
- Foreign passport with Form I-94 / I-94A and work authorization endorsement
- Passport from FSM or RMI with Form I-94 / I-94A
Important Note:
Some documents may be a combination, but they count as a single List A document.
List B Documents (Identity Only)
List B documents verify identity only. These must be paired with a List C document.
Accepted List B Documents
| Document Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver’s License | Issued by U.S. state or territory |
| Government ID Card | Federal, state, or local |
| School ID Card | Must include photograph |
| Voter Registration Card | Valid U.S. voter ID |
| U.S. Military Card | Includes draft record |
| Military Dependent ID | For family members |
| Merchant Mariner Card | Issued by U.S. Coast Guard |
| Native American Tribal Document | Official tribal ID |
| Canadian Driver’s License | Government-issued |
For Individuals Under 18:
Alternative identity documents may be accepted if standard documents are unavailable.
List C Documents (Employment Authorization Only)
List C documents confirm employment eligibility. These must be submitted along with a List B document.
Accepted List C Documents
- U.S. Social Security Card
- Birth certificate (original or certified copy with official seal)
- Certification of birth abroad (Forms FS-240, DS-1350, FS-545)
- Native American tribal document
- U.S. Citizen ID Card (Form I-197)
- Resident Citizen ID Card (Form I-179)
- Employment authorization document issued by DHS
Quick Comparison Table
| Category | Purpose | Documents Required |
|---|---|---|
| List A | Identity + Work Authorization | 1 Document |
| List B | Identity Only | 1 Document |
| List C | Work Authorization Only | 1 Document |
Rule:
- Provide either List A
- OR List B + List C together
Printable I-9 Documents PDF – Why You Need It
A printable list of acceptable documents for I-9 PDF is useful for:
- Employers during onboarding
- HR compliance checks
- Quick reference during audits
- Training new staff
Keeping a PDF version ensures accuracy and saves time during document verification.
Important Guidelines for I-9 Verification
- Only original and unexpired documents are accepted
- Employers cannot specify which document an employee must provide
- Documents must be verified within 3 days of hiring
- Photocopies are not allowed (except certified birth certificates)
Understanding the list of acceptable documents for I-9 is essential for both employers and employees in the U.S. It ensures legal hiring and protects against compliance issues.
Always keep a printable PDF version handy for quick and accurate verification during the hiring process.
