You need proof of identity, proof of residence, and your Social Security number

A Real ID requires you to show three things at the DMV: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. You cannot use a birth certificate alone to prove identity — the DMV needs a document with your photograph on it. The documents that work vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

You will bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will look at each document, verify it is real, and keep copies in their system. Bring more documents than you think you need — if one is rejected for any reason, having a backup saves you a trip back home.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID), proof of residence (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return).
  • Birth certificates do not count as proof of identity for Real ID, even though they prove citizenship.
  • Proof of residence must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days in most states.
  • If your name has changed, you will need a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree to show the change.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

Photo ID documents that the DMV will accept

You need one document with your photograph and signature on it. A valid U.S. passport is the strongest option because it proves both identity and citizenship. If you do not have a passport, a military ID, a state ID from another state, or a tribal ID all work. Some states also accept a passport card (the wallet-sized version) or an enhanced driver's license from another state.

A school ID, work ID, or library card will not work, even if it has your photo. The document must be issued by a government agency. If you are renewing a Real ID and your current license still has your photo on it, some states let you use that as your identity document, but call your DMV first to confirm.

Proof of residence: what counts and what does not

You need a document showing your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days is the most common choice. A lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax bill also work in most states. Some states accept a government letter addressed to you, such as a tax refund notice or a letter from Social Security.

A cell phone bill usually does not count because it may not show your physical address. A PO box does not work — the address must be a residential or business street address. If you recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring the new lease or a utility bill in your name at the new address. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask them to bring it with you, or bring a notarized letter from them saying you live there.

Proof of your Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, a tax return (federal or state), a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security benefit statement all work. The document must show your full name and your nine-digit Social Security number. A paystub with your Social Security number on it is acceptable in most states.

If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration before you can get a Real ID. That process takes a separate trip and requires a birth certificate and proof of identity.

Name changes: what you need to show

If your name on your identity document does not match the name you want on your Real ID, bring proof of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. The document must be an original or a certified copy from the court or the vital records office that issued it.

If you were married and took your spouse's name but never filed paperwork, you will need a marriage certificate. If you were divorced and want to go back to your maiden name, bring the divorce decree. Some states let you change your name at the DMV without a court order if you have been using the new name for a certain number of years, but this varies — call ahead to ask.

What to bring if you are under 18

Minors need the same documents as adults: photo ID, proof of residence, and proof of Social Security number. You will also need to bring a parent or legal guardian, and they will need to show their own ID. Some states require the parent to sign a consent form at the DMV.

If you do not have a photo ID yet, a school ID with your photo may work as a temporary substitute in some states, but call your DMV first. A birth certificate alone will not work for you either — you still need a government-issued photo ID.

Documents you cannot use, even though they seem like they should work

A birth certificate proves citizenship but not identity, so it does not replace a photo ID. A passport card is accepted in some states but not all — check with your DMV. A state ID that has expired more than a certain number of years ago (usually five years) may not work; your DMV can tell you the cutoff. A military dependent ID is not the same as a military ID and does not count.

A notarized letter saying you are who you say you are does not work. Neither does a letter from an employer, a school, or a government agency. The DMV needs documents issued by a government body that has its own security features and verification systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Some states accept a passport card, but not all. Call your DMV or check their website before you bring it. If your state does not accept it, a full passport works everywhere.

What if my Social Security card is lost and I do not have a tax return?

A W-2, a 1099, a paystub with your Social Security number, or a Social Security benefit statement all work. If you have none of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a benefit statement before your DMV appointment.

Do I need to bring my birth certificate to get a Real ID?

No. A birth certificate does not count as proof of identity for Real ID purposes. You need a photo ID instead. You may need a birth certificate later if you explore for a passport, but not for a Real ID.

Can I use a lease if it is in my roommate's name?

No, the lease must be in your name. Bring a utility bill in your name instead, or ask your roommate to bring the lease and sign a notarized letter saying you live there. Some states accept the notarized letter as proof of residence on its own.

What if I changed my name but do not have the paperwork?

You will need to get a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order before your DMV appointment. Contact the courthouse or vital records office in the county where the event happened. This usually takes one to two weeks.