Bring proof of identity, proof of residence, and your Social Security number
Your Real ID appointment requires three categories of documents: one that proves who you are, one that proves where you live, and your Social Security number (either on a card or in writing). You will also need to bring your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents that work vary slightly by state, but the categories stay the same across all of them.
Bring originals, not copies. The DMV staff will examine them in person and may make copies for your file. If you bring a copy instead of an original, you will be turned away and have to reschedule. Plan to spend 10 to 15 minutes at the appointment itself, but bring extra time in case the office is busy.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers.
- You must bring an original document proving your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
- You must bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number written on it.
- You must bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even though you are renewing it.
- Bring originals only — copies will not be accepted, and you will have to reschedule if you bring them by mistake.
Identity documents that work at the DMV
Your state DMV will accept a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) as proof of identity. If you were born outside the United States, bring whichever of these you have. If you were born in the U.S., a birth certificate is the simplest choice.
Some states also accept a military ID, military discharge papers (DD-214), or a tribal ID card. Check your state's DMV website before your appointment to see the full list for your state, because a few states have slightly different rules. Bring the document in its original form — a laminated birth certificate counts, but a photocopy does not.
Proof of residence documents
Your state needs to see that you actually live at the address on your process. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and current address.
If you have moved recently and your utility bill still shows an old address, bring a newer document instead — a recent lease, a bank statement, or a government letter addressed to you at 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 itself. Some states also accept a voter registration card or a recent paystub with your address on it.
Your Social Security number
Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not have the card itself, you can write your Social Security number on a piece of paper and bring that instead — the DMV does not require the physical card, only the number.
If you do not know your number, contact the Social Security Administration before your appointment; the DMV cannot look it up for you. Writing the number down takes seconds and saves you from having to reschedule.
Your current ID and any name-change documents
Bring the driver's license or state ID card you currently have, even though you are replacing it. The DMV staff will need to see it during your appointment to verify your identity and pull up your existing record.
If you have changed your name since your current ID was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original, not a copy. The DMV will use this to update your name in their system.
What to do if you do not have all the documents
If you are missing one of the required documents, contact your state DMV before your appointment. Some states have workarounds: for example, if you do not have a birth certificate, you may be able to bring a passport instead. If you do not have proof of residence in your name, some states will accept a letter from a government agency or a utility company confirming your address.
Do not show up to your appointment hoping the staff will accept something close to what is required. The Real ID law sets the standards, and the DMV cannot bend them. If you are unsure whether a document will work, call your local DMV office or check the state's website — a five-minute phone call now saves you a wasted trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of the original?
No. The DMV must see the original document. If you bring a copy, you will be turned away and will have to reschedule. If your birth certificate is damaged or you cannot find it, contact your state's vital records office to request a replacement before your appointment.
What if my utility bill has my old address on it?
Bring a different document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address — a recent lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement. If nothing is in your name, ask the person whose name is on the bill to write a letter saying you live there, and bring that letter plus the bill itself.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or is the number enough?
The number is enough. You can write it on a piece of paper if you do not have the card. The DMV does not require the physical card, only the nine-digit number.
What if I changed my name and my current ID does not match?
Bring the document that proves your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use this to update your records along with your new Real ID.
Can I bring documents that are expired?
Yes, as long as they are originals. An expired passport, expired military ID, or expired utility bill can all work. The DMV is checking that the document is real and that it proves your identity or address, not that it is currently valid.