What to bring when you go to the DMV

You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents depend on your state — some accept a passport as proof of both identity and residency, while others require separate documents for each. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website lists what it accepts, and you can call ahead to confirm your specific documents work before you make the trip.

Most states require you to bring the original documents, not copies. If you bring a copy and the DMV worker rejects it, you will have wasted a trip. Bring originals and let the DMV make copies if they need them.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return).
  • Each state accepts different documents, so check your state DMV's website or call before you go to make sure yours will work.
  • Bring original documents, not copies, because the DMV may reject copies and you will have to return another day.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, some states allow you to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Proof of identity documents

A passport (U.S. or foreign) is accepted in all states and counts as both identity and residency proof in many of them. A birth certificate issued by a state or U.S. territory also works in all states, though some require it to be certified (a certified copy has an official seal and signature). An uncertified photocopy from your own records usually will not work.

Other identity documents vary by state. Some accept a military ID, a tribal ID, or a school ID paired with another document. A few states accept a foreign national ID card. Check your state's list before you assume your document will work — what one state takes, another may not.

Proof of residency documents

A utility bill in your name (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common proof of residency and is accepted in every state. The bill must show your current address and be recent — most states want it dated within the last 30 to 90 days, though the exact window varies. A lease or mortgage statement also works in all states and does not have to be as recent.

Other documents that count include a bank statement, a credit card statement, a car insurance policy, or a property tax bill — all in your name and showing your address. Some states accept mail from a government agency (like a tax refund letter or jury duty notice). If you have just moved and do not yet have a bill in your new name, ask the DMV what temporary proof they accept; some take a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation of service.

Proof of Social Security number

A Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you do not have one or cannot find it, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return showing your Social Security number works in all states. A pay stub from your employer also counts if it displays your full Social Security number.

If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first at your local Social Security office before you can get a driver's license. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead — which some non-citizens use for tax purposes — some states allow it in place of a Social Security number. Check your state's rules, because not all do.

Documents for minors and name changes

If you are under 18, most states require a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. Bring their ID as well. Some states also require proof of your parents' residency or a birth certificate showing both parents' names.

If your name has changed since you were born — through marriage, divorce, court order, or other means — bring the document that shows the change. This might be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV needs to verify that the name on your process matches the name on your identity documents, or that you have legal paperwork explaining the difference.

What to do if you are missing a document

If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to three weeks and costs between $10 and $30. Some states allow you to order it online; others require you to mail in a form. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the office and process.

If you cannot get a document in time, ask the DMV whether you can bring a substitute. For example, if you do not have a utility bill, some states will accept a letter from your landlord on letterhead, or a bank statement, or a piece of mail from a government agency. The DMV worker has some flexibility, but only if you ask before you explore — do not assume a substitute will work.

Bringing documents from outside the United States

If your identity document is from another country, it must be in English or come with an official English translation. A certified translation is one prepared by a professional translator and stamped as official; a casual translation from a friend will not work. You can find certified translators through your state court system or through professional translation services.

Some states require foreign documents to be accompanied by a form from the U.S. State Department confirming they are genuine. This is called an apostille. You can request one from the government office that issued your document, or from the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. The process takes a few weeks. Check your state DMV's website to see whether you need one before you order it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone or a digital copy of my documents?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. A photo or digital file on your phone will not be accepted. If you have lost a document, order a certified replacement from the issuing agency instead.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring a separate proof of residency document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The DMV will use that to update your address on your new license. You do not need to update your ID first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a tax return?

No. A tax return, W-2, or pay stub showing your Social Security number works just as well. You only need one form of proof. Bring whichever is easiest for you to find.

What if I was born outside the United States and do not have a birth certificate?

Contact the vital records office in the country where you were born to request a certified copy. If that is not possible, ask your state DMV what alternative documents they accept — some take a passport, a consular record of birth, or a baptism certificate with an apostille.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must be present in person to explore for a driver's license, and you must bring your own documents. Some states allow a parent or guardian to help a minor, but the minor still has to be there.