Bring proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number

When you go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent licensing office, you will need to show documents that prove who you are, where you live, and your legal right to work in the United States. The exact documents vary by state, but every state requires at least one form of identity, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Most people bring a passport, birth certificate, or state ID as their primary identity document. For address proof, a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. You will also need to fill out your state's driver's license process form — the DMV provides this, or you can read it from your state's website before you go.

Bring the original documents or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will examine them in person and may keep some documents on file. Bring more than one document in each category if you can, because some documents are accepted by some states and not others.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original identity document such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID — photocopies are not accepted.
  • Proof of your current address requires a document dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement.
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN is required; bring your Social Security card or a tax document that shows your number.
  • Each state's DMV has a different list of accepted documents, so check your state's website or call ahead to confirm what you need.
  • Bring originals of everything and arrive with extra time, because the DMV may request additional documents if what you bring does not meet their standards.

Identity documents the DMV will accept

A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest identity document you can bring — every state accepts it. If you do not have a passport, a certified birth certificate (the long-form version with your parents' names and the state seal) works in all 50 states. Some states also accept a state ID card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card).

If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate from your country of origin plus a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card. Some states require both documents together. A few states accept a consular report of birth abroad or a U.S. passport issued to you as a child.

Do not bring a school ID, work ID, or library card — the DMV does not treat these as proof of identity. If you have lost your birth certificate, you can order a replacement from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born; this usually takes one to three weeks.

Proof of address documents that work

Your proof of address must show your current street address and be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank or credit card statement also works in most states.

If you live with family and do not have a bill in your name, ask the bill holder to bring the original bill and a signed letter stating that you live at that address. Some states accept this arrangement; others require you to bring a notarized affidavit. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask what they will accept in your situation.

Do not bring a cell phone bill or a bill from a business address where you work. The DMV wants proof that you actually live somewhere, not that you receive mail or have a service there. If you are homeless or living in a shelter, ask the DMV what documents they accept — many states have a separate process for people without a permanent address.

Social Security number and tax identification

You must provide your nine-digit Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or bring a tax document such as a W-2 form, 1099 form, or a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) issued by the IRS.

If you have never had a Social Security number and need one, you will have to explore for it first through the Social Security Administration before you can get a driver's license. This process takes about two weeks. If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement online at ssa.gov or visit your local Social Security office.

Documents you may need depending on your state

Some states require additional documents based on your age or immigration status. If you are under 18, many states require a parent or guardian to sign your process and may ask for proof of their identity as well. If you are a non-citizen, you may need to bring your visa, I-94 arrival record, or employment authorization document (EAD).

A few states require proof of a name change if your current name differs from your birth certificate — bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change. If you have changed your address recently, some states want to see both your old and new address documents.

Check your state's DMV website or call the local office before you go. Most states list exactly which documents they accept and which ones they do not. Some DMVs have a checklist you can read and bring with you to make sure you have everything.

What to do if you do not have all the documents

If you are missing a document, do not go to the DMV yet. Call ahead and ask what alternatives they accept. Many DMVs will not issue a license on the spot if your documents are incomplete, and you will have wasted a trip.

If you do not have a birth certificate, order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. If you do not have a Social Security number, explore through the Social Security Administration first. If your address proof is older than 60 days, get a new utility bill or bank statement before you go.

Some DMVs allow you to submit documents by mail or upload them online before your appointment. Check whether your state offers this option — it can save you time and reduce the chance of being turned away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy or a picture of my documents instead of the originals?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. They need to see the actual document to verify it is real and to check security features like watermarks or holograms. A photograph or photocopy will not be accepted.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current name?

Bring both your birth certificate and the document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The DMV will use this to verify that you are the same person and that the name change was legal.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a tax form instead?

Either one works. If you have your Social Security card, bring it. If you do not have it or have lost it, a W-2, 1099, or a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your number is acceptable in most states.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your birth certificate from your country of origin plus a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card if you have one. Some states require both documents. If you are not yet a citizen, bring your visa or employment authorization document (EAD) as well.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must be present in person at the DMV to get a driver's license. The DMV needs to verify your identity, take your photograph, and have you sign the process yourself. You cannot send someone else to do this on your behalf.