What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

The documents Real ID requires depend on which state you live in, but every state asks for proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number

Real ID is a federal standard for state driver's licenses and ID cards. To get one, you bring physical documents to your state's DMV or equivalent office — you cannot do this online or by mail. The documents fall into three categories: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. Each state's DMV website lists exactly which documents they accept in each category, because the rules vary by state.

You will need to visit in person. Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. Some documents must be unexpired; others can be expired. The DMV staff will check each document before you leave, so if you bring the wrong thing, you will know when ready and can go home to get the right one.

Key Takeaways

Every state requires proof of identity (like a passport or birth certificate), proof of where you live (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or tax return).
Each state's DMV accepts different documents within those three categories, so you must check your state's specific list before you go.
You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies will not work — and you must go in person.
Some documents must be current; others can be expired, but your state's DMV website will tell you which is which.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get Real ID, but you can still get a standard state ID or driver's license.

Proof of identity: what counts and what does not

Proof of identity means a document that shows your name, date of birth, and usually a photo. A U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate all work in every state. A driver's license from another state works. A military ID works. A tribal ID works in most states.

What does not work: a Social Security card by itself, a school ID, a work badge, or a library card. These do not have enough information to prove who you are. If you have a passport, bring it — it is the fastest route because it proves identity, citizenship, and residency all at once, though you will still need to bring a second document for residency if your passport does not show your current address.

If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, you can order a birth certificate from the state where you were born. This takes one to four weeks depending on the state. You can order it online through the state's vital records office, by mail, or sometimes in person at a county courthouse.

Proof of residency: documents that show where you live

Proof of residency means a document with your name and current address on it. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet) works in every state. A lease or mortgage statement works. A bank statement works. A government check or tax return works. A car insurance or homeowner's insurance policy works.

The document must be recent — most states accept documents dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. If you just moved, a utility bill in your new name may not exist yet. In that case, bring a lease signed by both you and your landlord, or a mortgage statement, or a bank statement showing your new address. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them saying you live there, plus the bill.

What does not work: a cell phone bill, a credit card statement, or mail from a doctor's office. These are not considered official enough. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask your state's DMV what they accept — some states allow a letter from a shelter or social services agency.

Proof of your Social Security number

Proof of your Social Security number means a document that shows your number. Your Social Security card itself is the simplest option. A tax return (federal or state) works. A W-2 form works. A 1099 form works. A Social Security statement works — you can request one free from ssa.gov.

The document must show your full nine-digit number. If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration. You can do this online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card takes one to two weeks.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get Real ID. You can still get a standard state driver's license or ID card, which works for driving and most everyday purposes but not for federal buildings or domestic flights.

How to find your state's specific document list

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "REAL ID requirements." The page will show you exactly which documents your state accepts for each category. Some states have a short list; others have a long list with many options. Some states require documents to be notarized; most do not.

If you cannot find the list online, call your state's DMV customer service line. They can tell you which documents work and whether you need to make an appointment or can walk in. Some DMVs require appointments; others do not. Some are very busy and have long wait times; others move quickly. Calling ahead saves a trip.

Bring more documents than you think you need. If you have two utility bills, bring both. If you have a passport and a birth certificate, bring both. The DMV staff will use whichever one is clearest and most recent. Bringing extras means you will not have to go home and come back.

What to bring on the day you go

Bring your documents in originals or certified copies. A certified copy is a photocopy stamped and signed by the government office that issued the original — for example, a certified copy of your birth certificate from the state vital records office. A regular photocopy will not work.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. Bring your Social Security card if you have it. Bring any documents you are using for proof of residency and proof of identity. Bring your completed process form if your state requires you to fill one out before you arrive — check the DMV website to see whether you should bring a printed form or fill one out there.

Bring a pen. Bring your payment method — most DMVs take cash, card, or check, but some take only card. Bring your phone in case the DMV needs to call you back. Do not bring originals of documents you cannot replace easily, like a passport, unless you are certain your state's DMV will return it to you the same day.

What happens if a document is expired or damaged

An expired birth certificate still works — birth certificates do not expire. An expired passport does not work for Real ID, because Real ID requires proof of citizenship, and an expired passport does not prove current citizenship status. You would need to renew your passport first, or bring a different citizenship document like a naturalization certificate.

A damaged document — torn, water-damaged, faded — may or may not work depending on how bad the damage is and what your state's rules are. If the damage makes your name or date of birth hard to read, the DMV will likely reject it. If you are not sure, call your state's DMV and describe the damage. They can tell you whether to bring it or get a replacement first.

An expired driver's license from another state works for proof of identity. An expired utility bill does not work for proof of residency — it must be recent. An expired Social Security card works for proof of your Social Security number, because the number itself does not expire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a copy of my birth certificate instead of the original?

Only if it is a certified copy — a photocopy stamped and signed by the state vital records office where you were born. A regular photocopy will not work. You can order a certified copy online, by mail, or in person from the state where you were born.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can order a birth certificate from the state where you were born. This takes one to four weeks. In the meantime, you can still get a standard state driver's license or ID card without Real ID, which works for driving and most everyday purposes.

Do I need to bring my original Social Security card or can I bring a copy?

You can bring a copy if it is certified, but most people just bring the original card. If you have lost your card, you can use a tax return, W-2, or Social Security statement instead. You can order a replacement card from the Social Security Administration online or by phone.

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

Bring a separate proof of residency document showing your current address, like a utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address on your new Real ID card even if your old ID shows a different one.

Can I bring documents that are in a language other than English?

Most states require documents to be in English or to come with an official English translation. If your birth certificate or other document is in another language, contact your state's DMV to ask whether you need a certified translation before you go.

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.