Bring proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number
When you go to the DMV to get your driver's license, you will need to bring documents that prove who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but every state requires some form of each. You cannot complete the process without them, so checking your state's specific list before you go saves a trip back home.
Most people need to bring between three and five documents total. The good news is that many of these are things you already have at home — a utility bill, a bank statement, or a lease agreement all work as proof of residency in most states. The harder part is understanding which documents count as which type of proof, because a document that works in one state might not work in another.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a document that proves your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card.
- You must bring proof that you live at your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days.
- You must provide your Social Security number, either on your process or by bringing your Social Security card.
- Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts for each category, and the list differs from other states.
- Bringing documents that do not match your process — such as an old address on your utility bill — can delay your license.
Proof of identity: what counts and what does not
A proof of identity is a document that shows your name, date of birth, and usually a photo or signature. A U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID card are the strongest forms because they are issued by government agencies. A birth certificate works in most states, though some require it to be certified (an official copy with a raised seal from the vital records office, not a photocopy).
Documents that do not work as proof of identity include a Social Security card, a school ID, a work badge, or a credit card. These do not have enough information to prove who you are. If you do not have a passport or state ID, a certified birth certificate is your most reliable option. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Naturalization if you were born outside the United States.
Proof of residency: recent documents with your current address
A proof of residency shows that you live at the address you put on your driver's license process. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement all work in most states. The document must show your name and current address, and it must be recent — usually from the last 30 to 60 days, depending on your state.
If you live with family or a roommate and the utility bill is in someone else's name, you can usually bring a letter from that person saying you live there, along with a copy of the bill. Some states accept a notarized letter (signed in front of a notary public) instead. A few states also accept mail from a government agency, such as a tax notice or voter registration card. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a letter from a landlord or family member is acceptable where you live.
Your Social Security number and how to prove it
Every state requires your Social Security number to issue a driver's license. You can provide it in two ways: bring your Social Security card, or write the number on your process. Most people write it on the process and do not need to bring the card itself. However, if you do not have a Social Security number yet, you will need to explore for one before you can get a driver's license.
If you were born outside the United States and do not have a Social Security number, you can explore for one at your local Social Security office. Bring your passport, visa, or other immigration documents, along with proof of residency. The process takes about two weeks, and you will receive a card in the mail. Once you have your number, you can then go to the DMV with your other documents.
Documents you do not need to bring
You do not need to bring your original birth certificate if you have a passport or state ID — one proof of identity is enough. You do not need to bring multiple utility bills or bank statements; one recent document showing your current address is sufficient. You do not need to bring pay stubs, tax returns, or letters from your employer unless your state specifically lists them as acceptable forms of residency proof.
You also do not need to bring documents proving you passed the written test or vision test if you are taking those tests on the same day as your appointment. The DMV will administer those tests in-house. However, if you took the written test at a different location or on a different day, bring the passing score notice with you.
What to do if your documents do not match
If your proof of residency shows an old address or a different name than your proof of identity, tell the DMV staff before you hand in your process. For example, if you recently moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a second document with your new address, such as a lease or a letter from your landlord. If your name on your birth certificate is different from the name you use now because of marriage or a legal name change, bring the marriage certificate or court order along with your birth certificate.
Mismatched documents are one of the most common reasons people have to come back to the DMV a second time. A few minutes spent explaining the situation to the staff member before you explore can prevent that. If you are unsure whether your documents will work together, call your state's DMV customer service line or visit the DMV website and use the document checker tool if your state has one.
Preparing your documents before you go
Make photocopies of all your documents before you go to the DMV. Keep the originals in a safe place at home. Bring the originals to the DMV — staff will not accept photocopies — but having copies means you have a record of what you brought and can prove what you submitted if there is ever a question later.
Organize your documents in the order your state's DMV website lists them. Write your name and date of birth on the back of each document in pencil so the staff can quickly match them to your process. Arrive early; bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms by hand. If you are under 18, check whether your state requires a parent or guardian to come with you, because some states do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photo from my phone or a printed photo instead of a passport?
No. Your proof of identity must be an official document issued by a government agency, such as a passport, state ID, or certified birth certificate. A printed photo does not count. If you do not have any of these documents, you will need to get a certified birth certificate from your state's vital records office before you can get a driver's license.
What if I do not have a utility bill because I just moved?
Bring a lease or rental agreement with your new address instead. If you do not have a lease, a notarized letter from your landlord or family member saying you live there usually works. Some states also accept a recent bank statement or mail from a government agency. Call your DMV to confirm what your state accepts before you go.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I write my number on the process?
No. Most states do not require you to bring your Social Security card. Writing your number on the process is enough. However, if you do not have a Social Security number yet, you must explore for one at the Social Security office before you can get a driver's license.
What happens if I bring documents but they are not acceptable?
The DMV staff will tell you which documents do not work and what you need to bring instead. You will have to leave and come back another day with the correct documents. To avoid this, check your state's DMV website before you go, or call the DMV customer service line to confirm your documents are acceptable.
Can someone else bring my documents for me if I cannot go to the DMV?
No. You must be present in person to get a driver's license. You will need to take the vision test and written test, and you will need to have your photo taken. Your documents must be in your name, and you must be the one to sign the process.