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

Real ID requires you to prove your identity, your Social Security number, and your current address. The exact documents that satisfy these requirements vary by state — some states accept a utility bill for address proof, others require a lease or mortgage statement. You will also need to bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it's expired.

The Department of Homeland Security sets the minimum standard, but each state's motor vehicle agency decides which specific documents it will accept. Before you go to your local DMV or equivalent office, check your state's website for the exact list. Showing up with the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement).
  • Your current driver's license or state ID card must come with you, even if it has expired.
  • Each state accepts different documents for the same category, so verify your state's specific list before you visit the DMV.
  • Original documents or certified copies are usually required — photocopies alone will not be accepted.

Identity documents your state will accept

A valid U.S. passport is the easiest identity document to bring because all 50 states accept it. If you don't have a passport, your state will accept a certified copy of your birth certificate — the kind with the raised seal, not a photocopy from a website. A Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship also works if you were not born in the United States.

Some states also accept a valid passport card, a Trusted Traveler card (like Global Entry or NEXUS), or a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe. A few states accept a military ID or a military dependent ID. Check your state's motor vehicle website to see which of these your state recognizes.

Your current driver's license or state ID card counts as proof of identity too, but you still need to bring it along with one of the documents above. The state is verifying that the person in front of them matches the person in the system.

Proof of your Social Security number

An original Social Security card is the document most people bring. If you've lost yours, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV — it takes about two weeks by mail. You can also bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return that shows your full Social Security number.

Some states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number, or a benefit statement if you receive Social Security. A few states will accept a paystub that displays your full Social Security number, though this varies. Your state's DMV website will list which documents it accepts for this step.

Proof of your current address

A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the most common proof of address. It must be recent, usually from the last 60 days, and show your full name and current address. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works and can be older than 60 days as long as it's still current.

Some states accept a property tax bill, a homeowner's insurance policy, or a bank or credit card statement showing your address. A few states accept a letter from your employer on company letterhead, or a letter from a government agency. Rental agreements, utility bills, and bank statements must show your name and address clearly — a bill addressed to "Resident" will not work.

If you've recently moved and your documents haven't caught up, some states allow you to bring two documents together — for example, an old utility bill plus a lease showing your new address. Check your state's rules before you visit.

Original documents versus copies

Most states require original documents or certified copies. A photocopy you made at home will not be accepted. If you're bringing a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with the raised seal from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — not a photocopy.

Some states will accept a certified copy of your Social Security card if you've lost the original. You can request one from the Social Security Administration. For utility bills and bank statements, an original is usually fine, but ask your state's DMV whether a printed copy from your online account counts as an original.

What to bring if you don't have all the standard documents

If you don't have a birth certificate, some states will accept a passport, a naturalization certificate, or a military discharge paper (DD-214) as proof of identity instead. If you don't have a Social Security card and can't get one in time, a tax return or W-2 will work in most states.

If you're homeless or living in temporary housing, some states allow you to use a shelter address, a PO box, or a letter from a social service agency as proof of address. Call your state's DMV directly to ask what documents they will accept in your situation — the website may not cover all exceptions.

How to prepare before you go to the DMV

Make a checklist using your state's official motor vehicle website. Write down the exact documents your state requires for identity, Social Security, and address proof. Gather originals or certified copies — do not bring photocopies. Check that utility bills and other time-sensitive documents are recent enough.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card even if it's expired. Bring your Social Security card or a tax return. Bring one or more address documents. If any document is in a name different from your current name (for example, a birth certificate with a maiden name), bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

Some DMV offices allow you to check in online or make an appointment. Doing so can shorten your wait time. A few states let you upload photos of your documents ahead of time so staff can review them before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You need a certified copy with the raised seal from the vital records office. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not be accepted. You can order a certified copy online or by mail from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born.

What if my name on my documents doesn't match my current name?

Bring the document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use this to verify that you are the same person. If you've changed your name multiple times, bring documents for each change in order.

Can I use a bank statement printed from my phone?

It depends on your state. Some states accept printed statements from your online account as originals. Others require a statement mailed to you by the bank. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm whether a printed statement will work.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Real ID requires a Social Security number. If you don't have one, you cannot get a Real ID. You can still get a standard state driver's license or ID card. Contact your state's DMV to learn what documents you'll need for a non-Real ID card instead.

Do I need to bring my old driver's license even if it's expired?

Yes. Bring it along with your other documents. The DMV uses it to verify your identity and to check your driving record. An expired license is still acceptable for this purpose.