What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

The documents Real ID requires

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and proof of your citizenship or lawful presence in the United States. You cannot get a Real ID with just one document — you need at least one from each category, and some states require more than one per category.

The specific documents accepted vary by state. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency publishes its own list of what it will accept in each category. Before you go in, check your state's website to see which documents they take, because bringing the wrong papers means a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

You must bring documents from four separate categories: identity, Social Security number, address, and citizenship or lawful presence.
Each state decides which specific documents it accepts, so you need to check your state's DMV website before you go.
Original documents or certified copies are usually required — photocopies and digital images typically do not count.
If you were born outside the United States, you will need a passport, birth certificate from your country of origin, or a travel document that shows your lawful presence.

Identity documents that work

For proof of identity, most states accept a current or expired passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a state-issued ID card. Some states also accept a driver's license from another state, even if it is expired, as long as the expiration is recent.

The document needs to have your photograph on it. A Social Security card, birth certificate, or voter registration card will not work for this step because they do not have a photo. If you do not have a passport or military ID, your best option is usually a state ID card from your current state or a neighboring state.

Proof of your Social Security number

Your Social Security card itself is the most straightforward document here. If you have it, bring the original. If you have lost it, you can get a replacement from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV — this usually takes one to two weeks by mail.

Some states also accept a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub that shows your full Social Security number. If you choose this route, the document needs to be recent enough that your state considers it current — usually within the last year. A bank statement with your Social Security number may work in some states but not others, so check first.

Proof of your current address

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it usually works. The document needs to be recent — most states want something from the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. A printed utility bill, a lease you signed, or a mortgage statement from your lender all count as originals.

If you do not have a recent utility bill or lease, a government-issued document with your address can work in many states — a property tax bill, a vehicle registration, or a voter registration card. Some states also accept mail from a government agency, such as a tax notice or a letter from your state's unemployment office. A piece of mail addressed to you is not enough by itself; it needs to show your address and come from an official source.

Citizenship or lawful presence documents

If you were born in the United States, you need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. The document must come from the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born, not a photocopy you made yourself. You can order a certified copy from your state's vital records office — this usually costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks.

If you were born outside the United States, you need a valid passport, a passport card, a travel document issued by the U.S. government, or a birth certificate from your country of origin with an official seal. A naturalization certificate or a permanent resident card (green card) also works. If your document is in another language, some states require an official English translation along with the original.

What "original" and "certified copy" mean

An original document is the actual paper issued by the government or organization — your real birth certificate from the vital records office, your actual Social Security card, your lease signed by both you and your landlord. A certified copy is a photocopy made by the issuing office and stamped or sealed to show it is a true copy of the original. Both are acceptable; a photocopy you made yourself is not.

Digital images, even if they are clear and recent, do not count. You cannot show your birth certificate on your phone. You cannot email a scan of your utility bill and expect it to work. Bring the physical documents to the DMV. Some states are beginning to accept digital documents through their online portals, but the in-person process still requires originals or certified copies.

What to do if you do not have all the documents

If you are missing a document, contact your state's DMV before you go. Some states have alternative documents they will accept if your first choice is not available. For example, if you do not have a birth certificate, some states will accept a passport or a naturalization certificate instead. If you do not have a recent utility bill, some states will accept a letter from a shelter, a hospital, or a government office that shows your address.

If you cannot get a document in time, you may be able to get a standard state ID or driver's license instead of a Real ID. A standard ID does not meet federal requirements for air travel or entry to federal buildings, but it works for everyday purposes like buying alcohol or opening a bank account. Check your state's website to see what your options are if you cannot complete the Real ID process right now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy or photo of my documents?

No. You must bring original documents or certified copies to the DMV in person. Photos, scans, and digital images do not count, even if they are clear and recent. The only exception is if your state's DMV offers an online Real ID process that accepts digital uploads — check your state's website to see if this option exists.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

You can use it if it has an official seal from the government office that issued it. If the document is in another language, some states require an official English translation. Contact your state's DMV to ask whether they need the translation before you go, because requirements vary.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a recent pay stub?

It depends on your state. Some states accept a pay stub, W-2, or tax return instead of the card itself. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents they take for Social Security proof. If you have the card, bringing it is usually the simplest option.

How long does it take to get a certified copy of my birth certificate?

Most states take one to three weeks to mail a certified copy, though some offer expedited service for an extra fee. You can order online, by mail, or in person at your state's vital records office. Starting this process early gives you time to get the document before your DMV appointment.

Can I use an expired passport as proof of identity?

Yes, in most states. An expired passport still has your photo and signature, so it works for identity proof. Some states also accept an expired driver's license from another state. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what they accept.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.