The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're starting with

Real ID requires you to prove three things: who you are, where you live, and that you have a Social Security number. Most states ask for the same basic set of documents, but some accept alternatives, and a few have different rules for people renewing versus explore for the first time. The fastest way to know exactly what your state wants is to check your state's DMV website before you go — many let you upload documents ahead of time or tell you which ones they prefer.

You will need to bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation. Bring more than you think you need: if one document is damaged or unclear, having a backup saves you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of address (a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return).
  • Original documents or certified copies are required — photocopies will not be accepted.
  • Your state's DMV website lists which documents it accepts and whether you can upload them before your appointment.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, some states allow you to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though this varies by state.
  • Bring documents that match the name on your process — if your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

Proof of identity: what counts and what does not

You need one document that proves who you are. A U.S. passport, passport card, or Enhanced Driver's License counts. So does a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Some states also accept a state ID card, a military ID, or a tribal ID card.

A school ID, library card, or work badge does not count as proof of identity for Real ID. Neither does a credit card or a voter registration card. If you have a passport, bring it — it satisfies both identity and citizenship in one document, which speeds up the process.

If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, it must be an official document issued by the vital records office in that country or state, and it must include your full name, date of birth, and place of birth. A photocopy of a birth certificate, even if it is certified, may not be accepted in some states — call ahead if that is all you have.

Proof of address: recent bills and lease agreements

You need one document showing your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works if it is dated within the last 60 days. So does a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowners insurance policy. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, but not all — check your state's list first.

The document must show your full name and your current address. A bill addressed to "Resident" or a generic name will not work. If you recently moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or a signed rental agreement for your new place instead.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a notarized letter from them saying you live there, plus the bill. Some states accept this; others do not. A few states allow you to bring a government letter addressed to you — a tax notice, a court summons, or a letter from Social Security — if you cannot get a utility bill in your name.

Proof of Social Security number: card, tax forms, or W-2s

You need one document showing your Social Security number. Your Social Security card is the simplest option. If you do not have it, bring a W-2, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a Social Security statement (which you can request online at ssa.gov). Some states also accept a pay stub that shows your full Social Security number.

If you do not have a Social Security number, ask your state's DMV whether it accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Not all states do. If your state does not, you cannot get a Real ID without a Social Security number — you would need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration first.

Do not bring a document that shows only the last four digits of your Social Security number. The DMV needs to see the full number to verify it matches your Social Security record.

Name changes: marriage, divorce, and court orders

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change. A marriage certificate works for a name change due to marriage. A divorce decree or a court order works for a name change due to divorce. If you changed your name through a court petition, bring the court order.

The document must be an original or a certified copy. Some states require it to be certified by the court that issued it; others accept a certified copy from a vital records office. If you are unsure, call your state's DMV — they can tell you which version they need.

If you have been married more than once, bring all the marriage certificates and divorce decrees that show how your name changed from your birth certificate to your current name. The DMV needs to see the full chain to confirm your identity.

Citizenship and immigration documents

If you were born outside the United States, you need to prove you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and is the easiest option. A Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship also works.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (a green card holder), bring your green card. Some states also accept a Permanent Resident Card or a Resident Alien Card. If you have a visa or another immigration document, it may not be enough — check your state's DMV website to see what it accepts for non-citizens.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a green card, you cannot get a Real ID. You can still get a standard state ID or driver's license, which works for most purposes but not for federal buildings or domestic flights.

What to bring if you are renewing versus explore for the first time

If you are renewing a Real ID, your state may ask for fewer documents. Many states let you renew by mail if your current ID is not expired and your address has not changed. In that case, you might only need to send in your current ID and a signed form — no other documents required.

If you are explore for Real ID for the first time, or if your current ID is expired or your address has changed, you will need to go in person and bring the full set of documents: proof of identity, proof of address, proof of Social Security number, and proof of citizenship. Some states also ask for a thumbprint or a signature on file.

Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can renew by mail or whether you must come in. If you can renew by mail, the website will tell you which documents to send and whether you need to include payment.

Documents you do not need and common mistakes

You do not need to bring your Social Security card if you have a W-2 or a tax return. You do not need to bring multiple proofs of address — one recent bill is enough. You do not need to bring a passport if you have a birth certificate and a proof of citizenship document.

A common mistake is bringing a photocopy instead of an original. Another is bringing a bill or statement that is older than 60 days or that does not show your current address. A third is bringing a document in a language other than English without an official translation.

If you have changed your name and you bring a birth certificate that shows your old name without bringing a marriage certificate or court order, the DMV will ask you to come back with the name-change document. Bring everything at once to avoid a second trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents instead of bringing originals?

Most states require originals or certified copies in person. However, some states now let you upload digital copies to your account before your appointment, and the DMV reviews them ahead of time. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available. Even if you upload copies, bring the originals to your appointment in case the DMV needs to verify them.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

It must be an official document issued by that country's vital records office, and it must show your full name, date of birth, and place of birth. If it is not in English, bring an official English translation as well. Some states require the birth certificate to be certified; others do not. Call your state's DMV to confirm what it needs.

Can I use my lease if it does not have my name on it?

No. The lease must show your name and your current address. If you are not on the lease, bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on it, stating that you live there, plus a copy of the lease. Not all states accept this, so check first.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Some states allow you to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Others do not. Contact your state's DMV to find out. If your state does not accept an ITIN, you would need to explore for a Social Security number through the Social Security Administration before you can get a Real ID.

Do I need to bring my old driver's license or ID card?

If you are renewing, yes — bring your current ID. If you are explore for the first time, you do not need an old ID, but you do need proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport. Check your state's DMV website for its specific requirements.