The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using to prove your identity

Real ID requires you to bring proof of three things to your state's DMV or equivalent office: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. The specific documents that count for each category vary by state. Some states accept a passport card; others don't. Some accept a utility bill for address; others require a lease or mortgage statement. You need to check your state's DMV website before you go, because showing up with the wrong papers means a wasted trip.

The federal Real ID standard sets a floor — every state must accept certain documents — but states can accept additional ones. This means your neighbor in the next state over might be able to use a document you cannot. The documents listed here are the ones most states accept, but your state may have a shorter or longer list.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving identity, one proving your current address, and proof of your Social Security number — all three categories are required.
  • A passport or passport card counts as both identity and citizenship proof, so you need fewer documents if you have one.
  • Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts in each category, and this list varies state to state.
  • If your name has changed since a document was issued, bring both the old document and proof of the name change (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).
  • Original documents or certified copies are required; photocopies and digital images are not accepted.

Identity documents most states accept

A valid passport or passport card is the strongest identity document and covers citizenship proof at the same time. If you have one, bring it — you'll need fewer other documents. A state ID or driver's license from another state also works, as long as it's not expired or suspended.

A military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card) counts as identity proof in most states. A birth certificate alone does not count as identity proof; it only proves citizenship. You need something with a photo or signature. A school ID, work ID, or library card does not meet the standard.

If you don't have any of these, some states accept a combination of documents — for example, a Social Security card plus a utility bill plus a birth certificate. Check your state's list before you assume a combination will work.

Proof of citizenship documents

An original or certified copy of your birth certificate is the most common way to prove citizenship. It must be a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — a photocopy or a copy you printed from an online service does not count. If you were born outside the United States, a passport, passport card, or permanent resident card also proves citizenship.

A naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship proves you became a U.S. citizen through a legal process. If you have one, bring the original or a certified copy. A baptism record or hospital record does not count, even if it shows your birth date and place.

Address proof documents

A current utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement in your name counts as address proof in most states. "Current" usually means issued within the last 60 days, though some states accept up to 90 days. The document must show your name and full street address — a PO box does not count.

A property tax bill, homeowner's insurance policy, or bank or credit card statement also works in most states. Some states accept a government check or benefit statement (like unemployment or Social Security) if it shows your current address. A cell phone bill sometimes counts, but not always — check your state's list.

If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill in your new name yet, some states accept a lease signed by you, a mortgage statement, or a letter from a landlord on letterhead. A few states accept a government-issued document with your new address, like a voter registration card. Do not rely on a piece of mail addressed to you; bring an official document.

Social Security number proof

An original Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you don't have it, a W-2 form, tax return, or pay stub with your full Social Security number works. Some states accept a benefit statement from Social Security, unemployment, or a pension program. A 1099 form counts if it shows your full number.

If you've lost your Social Security card and don't have any of these documents, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV. This takes one to two weeks by mail. A birth certificate alone does not prove your Social Security number.

What to do if your name has changed

If your name on your identity document doesn't match your current legal name, bring both the old document and proof of the name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order changing your name all count. The document must be an original or certified copy.

If you were married and took your spouse's name but never filed a court order, a certified marriage certificate is usually enough. If you divorced and changed your name back, bring the divorce decree. Some states also accept an amended birth certificate if you've had your name legally changed at birth.

Documents you cannot use

Photocopies, faxes, and digital images of documents do not count, even if they're clear and complete. You must bring originals or certified copies. A certified copy is one stamped and signed by the issuing office — not a copy you made yourself and had notarized.

Expired documents do not count for identity proof (passport, driver's license, military ID). An expired utility bill or lease does not count for address proof. A birth certificate never expires, but it must be certified. School IDs, work IDs, library cards, and student IDs do not meet Real ID standards for identity proof, even if they have your photo.

How to find your state's specific list

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "REAL ID acceptable documents." The page will show exactly which documents your state accepts in each category. Some states have a downloadable checklist you can print and bring with you. If you can't find the list online, call your state DMV directly — they can tell you over the phone what you need.

Bring more documents than you think you need if you're uncertain. If you bring an extra utility bill or a second form of ID, the DMV will straightforward not use it. If you bring too few, you'll be turned away and have to come back. Bring originals or certified copies of everything, and bring your Social Security card if you have it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my birth certificate on my phone?

No. You must bring an original or certified copy printed on paper. A certified copy is stamped and signed by the vital records office where you were born. A digital image, even if it's a photograph of the certified copy, does not count.

What if I don't have a utility bill in my name?

A lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement in your name works instead. Some states accept a letter from your landlord on letterhead, or a government document like a voter registration card. Check your state's list — the options vary.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a W-2?

No. A W-2, tax return, or pay stub with your full Social Security number counts as proof. You don't need the card itself. If you have the card, bring it anyway — it's the simplest proof and takes seconds to verify.

Can I use an expired passport for identity proof?

No. An expired passport does not count for identity proof. A valid (non-expired) passport or passport card does count. If your passport is expired, you'll need a different identity document like a state driver's license or military ID.

What if my name on my birth certificate doesn't match my current name?

Bring both your birth certificate and proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use both documents together to confirm your identity and current legal name.