I was told I needed to fill out a rental application (where ssn is required) before viewing it because he gets several requests a day. Doing a background check without a Social Security number from a rental can often be done.Rental agents need to know that you have a steady job so you can pay your rent, which you can't have without a Social Security number. â–¡ Social Security number. Question: Does a landlord need to have my social security number and drivers lisence.? Since the SSN is a required field, have them temporarily enter any 9-digit number so they can continue filling out their rental application and complete it. The good news is that you do not need an SSN on an apartment rental application to screen a prospective tenant.