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

Every state's DMV accepts the same broad categories of documents — proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and proof of citizenship or lawful presence — but the specific documents they will take vary. For example, some states accept a utility bill for address proof; others require a lease or mortgage statement. Some accept a passport card; others do not. Before you gather anything, check your state's DMV website or call their Real ID line, because showing up with the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

The documents listed here are the ones most states accept. Your state may accept others or reject one of these. The DMV website for your state will have the exact list they use, organized by category, so you know what you can bring.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires proof of identity, Social Security number, address, and citizenship or lawful presence, but which specific documents they accept varies by state.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents they will take in each category, and calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
  • Original documents or certified copies are usually required; photocopies alone are not accepted.
  • If your name has changed, you will need to bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • Expired documents are often accepted for Real ID as long as they show your current legal name and address.

Proof of identity documents most states accept

A valid or expired passport is the single document most states prefer because it proves both identity and citizenship at once. A passport card (the wallet-sized version) works in some states but not all, so check first. A birth certificate — the long-form version with your parents' names, not the short abstract — works in every state, though some require it to be certified (stamped by the vital records office). A driver's license or ID card from another state works if it is still valid or expired within the last few years, depending on your state's rules.

Some states also accept a military ID, a tribal ID card, or a permanent resident card (green card). A few accept a foreign passport, though this is less common. School IDs, work IDs, and credit cards do not work for Real ID, even if they have your photo.

Proof of Social Security number

A Social Security card is the document most people bring. If you do not have one or it is lost, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment — this takes one to two weeks by mail, or you can visit a local Social Security office.

Some states accept a W-2 form or tax return showing your Social Security number instead of the card itself. A few accept a 1099 form or pay stub. Check your state's list to see whether you can use one of these alternatives, because if your state does not accept them and you show up without your card, you will have to reschedule.

Proof of current address

A utility bill — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the most common proof of address. It must show your name and current address and be dated within the last two months. A lease or rental agreement works in most states if it is signed and shows your name and address. A mortgage statement or property tax bill also works in most places.

Some states accept a bank or credit card statement dated within the last two months. A few accept mail from a government agency, such as a tax notice or voter registration card. A cell phone bill works in some states but not others. 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 the bill holder saying you live there, though this varies. Check your state's rules before you rely on this option.

Proof of citizenship or lawful presence

A U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and covers this requirement on its own. A birth certificate (the long-form version) also proves citizenship. A naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship works if you were not born in the U.S. but became a citizen through naturalization.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but have lawful presence, a permanent resident card (green card), employment authorization document (EAD), or visa in your passport works. Some states also accept a tribal ID card as proof of citizenship. Military discharge papers (DD-214) work in some states. If you have a visa but not a passport, bring both the visa and the passport it is stamped in.

What to do if your name has changed

If you are married, divorced, or have legally changed your name, you need to bring the document that shows the change. A marriage certificate (certified copy) shows a name change from marriage. A divorce decree or dissolution of marriage document shows a name change from divorce. A court order shows a legal name change. These documents must be certified copies — originals or copies stamped by the court or vital records office.

If your birth certificate shows a different name than the one you use now, bring both the birth certificate and the document that explains the change. The DMV will not accept your word that the name change happened; they need the official document.

Original documents, certified copies, and what does not work

Most states require original documents or certified copies — a copy stamped or certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies, scans, or photos of documents do not work, even if they are notarized. The only exception is that some states allow you to bring a photocopy of a utility bill or lease if you also bring the original to show the DMV staff, who will verify it and hand it back.

Expired documents are usually fine for Real ID as long as they show your current legal name and address. An expired passport, birth certificate, or driver's license from another state still works. However, if a document is so old or damaged that the information is hard to read, the DMV may reject it. If you are unsure whether a document is acceptable, call your state's DMV before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?

Most states require originals or certified copies. Photocopies and photos do not work. Some states let you bring a photocopy of a utility bill if you also show the original, but check your state's rules first. Certified copies — stamped by the issuing agency — are accepted everywhere.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to three weeks. In the meantime, a valid passport works as proof of identity and citizenship instead. If you need Real ID urgently, check whether your state accepts a passport alone.

Can I use an expired document?

Yes, expired documents usually work as long as they show your current legal name and address and the information is still readable. An expired passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state driver's license is normally fine. However, if a document is very old or damaged, the DMV may reject it.

What if my address on my documents does not match my current address?

You need a separate document showing your current address, such as a recent utility bill or lease. The DMV will not update your address based on old documents. Bring both the old document (for identity) and a new one (for current address).

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

It depends on your state. Some states accept a W-2, tax return, or pay stub instead of the card. Others require the Social Security card itself. Check your state's DMV website before your appointment so you know which documents to bring.