The documents Real ID requires depend on which state you're in and what you're starting with
Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. To get one, you bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your legal name change if one applies to you. Every state's DMV accepts the same categories of documents, but the specific documents they'll take vary slightly — for instance, some states accept a utility bill for address proof while others require a lease or mortgage statement.
The federal government does not issue Real ID cards. You get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. You cannot get one by mail in most states; you must appear in person with your documents. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.
Key Takeaways
- You need four categories of documents: proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), proof of current address (utility bill or lease), and proof of legal name if you've changed it.
- Every state's DMV accepts the same document categories, but the specific documents they'll take within each category vary by state — check your state DMV's website before you go.
- You must bring originals or certified copies; photocopies and digital images on your phone will not be accepted.
- You must appear in person at your state DMV; Real ID cannot be obtained by mail or online in any state.
Proof of identity: what counts
Proof of identity means a document that shows your name, date of birth, and a photo or physical description. A U.S. passport, passport card, or passport book all work. So does a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory, though it does not have a photo. A current state driver's license or state ID card counts, even if it is not yet Real ID-compliant. A military ID, tribal ID card, or permanent resident card (green card) also works.
Some states accept additional documents like a foreign passport with a U.S. visa, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. Check your state DMV's website for the full list before you go, because what one state accepts another may not.
Proof of Social Security number: what counts
Proof of your Social Security number means a document that displays your nine-digit number. Your Social Security card itself is the most straightforward option. A W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document with your Social Security number on it also works. Some states accept a Social Security Administration letter or a bank statement that shows your number.
You cannot use a document that shows only the last four digits of your Social Security number. The document must show the full number. If you have lost your Social Security card and do not have a tax document or bank statement, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV.
Proof of current address: what counts
Proof of current address means a document issued within the last 60 days that shows your name and where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works. So does a lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance policy. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, a government check, or a paycheck stub with your address on it.
The document must be in your name and must show your current address — not a previous address. If you have recently moved and your utility bill or lease still shows an old address, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your new address instead. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, some states will accept it if you bring a signed letter from them confirming you live there, though policies vary.
Proof of legal name change: when you need it
If your current legal name differs from the name on your birth certificate or other identity documents, you must bring proof of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order of name change all work. If you were married and took your spouse's name, bring the marriage certificate. If you were divorced and changed your name back, bring the divorce decree that shows the name change.
If you have changed your name through a court order (which some people do for reasons unrelated to marriage or divorce), bring a certified copy of that order. The document must be an original or certified copy, not a photocopy.
What to bring to the DMV: the checklist
| Document Category | Examples | What to Remember |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | U.S. passport, birth certificate, current state ID, military ID, green card | Must show name, date of birth, and photo or description. Original or certified copy only. |
| Proof of Social Security Number | Social Security card, W-2, 1099, tax return, bank statement | Must show full nine-digit number, not just last four digits. Original or certified copy only. |
| Proof of Current Address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, insurance policy, bank statement | Must be dated within last 60 days and show your current address. Must be in your name or have a signed letter from the account holder. |
| Proof of Legal Name Change (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order of name change | Only needed if your current legal name differs from your birth certificate. Original or certified copy only. |
How to prepare before you go to the DMV
Visit your state DMV's website and look for the Real ID document checklist. Each state publishes one, and it will tell you exactly which documents your state accepts in each category. Some states have a shorter list than others. Print the checklist or take a photo of it on your phone so you can check off each document as you gather it.
Gather all four categories of documents before you go. Make sure each one is an original or certified copy — if you have a photocopy, order a certified copy from the issuing agency. Bring more than one document in each category if you have them, because the DMV staff can tell you on the spot if one document is not acceptable, and you can use a backup. Bring your current state ID or driver's license even if it is not Real ID-compliant, because you will need to show it at the DMV counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a digital copy of my documents on my phone instead of bringing originals?
No. The DMV must see original documents or certified copies. Digital images, screenshots, and photocopies will not be accepted. If you have a document only in digital form, contact the issuing agency and request a certified paper copy before you go to the DMV.
What if I don't have a birth certificate?
You can get a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born. Contact that office directly — you can usually order online or by mail. The process takes one to four weeks depending on the state. In the meantime, a U.S. passport or passport card works as proof of identity instead.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a recent tax return?
No. Either one works as proof of your Social Security number. Bring whichever you have. If you have both, bring both so you have a backup in case the DMV has a question about one of them.
My lease is in my roommate's name. Can I still use it as proof of address?
Some states will accept it if you bring a signed letter from your roommate confirming you live there. Other states will not. Check your state DMV's website or call them before you go. If your state will not accept it, bring a different document in your name, such as a utility bill or bank statement showing your current address.
What if my address on my documents doesn't match my current address?
Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address. A recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement will work. The DMV needs to see proof of where you live now, not where you lived before.