Your passport can be one document that satisfies the identity requirement for Real ID, but it cannot be your only document

A valid U.S. passport or passport card counts as proof of identity and citizenship for Real ID purposes. However, the Department of Homeland Security requires you to bring two forms of identification to your appointment — one for identity and one for proof of your Social Security number or tax identification. Your passport alone does not cover both requirements, so you will need to bring a second document no matter what.

If you bring your passport as your identity document, your second document must show your Social Security number or tax ID. A Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return typically works for this purpose. Some states also accept a bank statement or utility bill in your name, though rules vary by state.

Key Takeaways

  • A U.S. passport or passport card satisfies the identity and citizenship requirement for Real ID, but you still need a second document.
  • Your second document must show your Social Security number or tax identification number — a Social Security card, W-2, or recent tax return usually works.
  • You must bring the physical passport to your appointment; a photo or copy is not accepted.
  • If your passport is expired, most states will still accept it as proof of identity for Real ID, though you should confirm with your state's DMV first.

What documents work as your second form of identification

The second document you bring must display your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The most straightforward options are a Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, or a federal tax return from the past three years. These documents are accepted in all states.

Some states accept additional documents such as a bank statement, utility bill, or mortgage statement — all in your name and dated within the past 60 to 90 days. A few states also accept a birth certificate as a second form of identification, though this is less common. Check your state's DMV website before your appointment to see which documents they specifically accept, because the rules differ.

Bringing your passport to the DMV

You must bring your physical passport to your Real ID appointment. The DMV will not accept a photocopy, a photo of your passport, or a digital image. If your passport is at home and you are explore in person, you will need to reschedule your appointment or your process will be rejected.

If your passport is currently expired, most states will still accept it as proof of identity for Real ID purposes. An expired passport still proves citizenship and identity — the expiration date does not change what it shows about who you are. However, some states have their own rules, so contact your local DMV to confirm before you go.

When a passport is not enough by itself

Real ID requires proof of both identity and Social Security number or tax ID. A passport proves identity and citizenship, but it does not display your Social Security number. This is why you cannot use a passport alone, even though it is a strong form of identification.

If you do not have a Social Security card and cannot locate a W-2 or tax return, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment. You can explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Getting a replacement card usually takes one to two weeks.

Passport card versus passport book

Both the passport book and the passport card are accepted for Real ID. The passport card is smaller and cheaper than the book, and it works the same way for Real ID purposes — you still need a second document showing your Social Security number or tax ID.

The main difference is that the passport card can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The passport book works for all international travel by air. For Real ID purposes alone, either one works equally well.

If you do not have a passport yet

If you do not have a passport, you do not need to get one to obtain a Real ID. You can use other combinations of documents instead — for example, a driver's license or state ID card paired with a birth certificate, or a birth certificate paired with a Social Security card. A passport is straightforward one option among several.

Getting a passport takes time and costs money, so if you already have other documents at home, it is usually faster and cheaper to use those instead. Only pursue a passport if you also need one for travel or if your other identity documents are lost or damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to renew my passport before I use it for Real ID?

No. An expired passport still proves your identity and citizenship for Real ID purposes. You only need to renew your passport if you plan to travel internationally. For Real ID alone, an expired passport works fine — but check with your state DMV first, as a few states have different rules.

Can I use my passport card instead of my passport book?

Yes. The passport card and passport book are treated the same way for Real ID. Both count as proof of identity and citizenship. Choose whichever one you have. You will still need a second document showing your Social Security number or tax ID.

What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have a W-2 or tax return?

You can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment. explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office. Replacement cards usually arrive within one to two weeks.

Can I bring a photo of my passport instead of the physical document?

No. The DMV requires the physical passport itself. A photo, photocopy, or digital image will not be accepted. If you cannot bring your passport to your appointment, you will need to reschedule.