While a Social Security number may not be required in order to legally work in California, it is required to obtain and maintain a professional license.

Collection of the Social Security number is authorized by Section 30 of the Business and Professions Code and Public Law 94-455 [42 U.S.C.A. 405 (c)(2)(C)]. The Social Security number is used exclusively for tax enforcement purposes, for purposes of compliance with any judgment or order for family support in accordance with Section 11350.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or for verification of licensure or examination status by a licensing or examination entity which utilizes a national examination and where licensure is reciprocal with the requesting state.

Section 30 prohibits the LATC, and all licensing boards, from processing any application for original license or for renewal of a license unless the applicant provides his or her social security number where requested on the application.