Bring proof of citizenship, identity, and your current address

Your Real ID appointment requires three categories of documents: one that proves you are a U.S. citizen, one that proves who you are, and one that shows where you live. You do not need to bring originals of everything — some documents can be copies — but the DMV staff will tell you which ones they need to see in person and which they will photocopy on the spot. Bring your Social Security number written down or your Social Security card itself, because you will need to provide it during the appointment.

The exact documents accepted vary by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go. Some states accept a broader range of documents than others. For example, some accept a utility bill as proof of address while others require a lease or mortgage statement. Showing up with the wrong documents means a rescheduled appointment and a delay in getting your Real ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), one proving identity (driver's license, passport, or military ID), and one showing your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts, because requirements differ between states.
  • Bring your Social Security number or card, because the DMV will ask for it during your appointment.
  • Some documents must be originals and some can be copies; the DMV will tell you which is which when you arrive.
  • Expired documents may still work for proof of citizenship or identity, but address documents must be recent — usually within 90 days of your appointment.

Proof of citizenship documents the DMV will accept

A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest proof of citizenship to bring because it serves double duty as both citizenship and identity proof. If you do not have a passport, bring your original birth certificate issued by the state or territory where you were born. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or official stamp — a photocopy or hospital-issued birth record will not work.

If you were born outside the United States and became a citizen, bring your Certificate of Naturalization or your Permanent Resident Card (green card). Some states also accept a Certificate of Citizenship. If you were born in a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico or Guam, bring your birth certificate from that territory along with proof that you are a U.S. citizen — this might be a passport, a Certificate of Citizenship, or documentation showing your parents' citizenship status at the time of your birth.

Proof of identity documents the DMV will accept

A current or expired driver's license or state ID card from any U.S. state or territory works as proof of identity. A U.S. passport or passport card also counts. If you do not have any of these, bring a military ID card, a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a U.S. government employee ID.

Some states accept additional documents like a school ID, a work ID, or a foreign passport, but these vary widely. Check your state's DMV website to see whether these secondary documents are accepted in your state. If you have none of the primary documents listed above, call your DMV before your appointment to ask what you can bring instead.

Proof of address documents the DMV will accept

A recent utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the most common proof of address. The bill must show your current address and be dated within the last 90 days. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works, as long as it shows your name and current address. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's insurance policy.

If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name at your new address, bring a lease or mortgage statement instead. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask them for a letter on their letterhead stating that you live at that address, and bring that letter along with the utility bill. Some states accept a notarized affidavit of residence if you cannot produce any of the standard documents — ask your DMV whether this option is available.

What to bring if you are renewing or replacing a Real ID

If you already have a Real ID and are renewing it, you may not need to bring proof of citizenship again. Many states allow you to renew by mail or online without appearing in person, and those that require an in-person visit often waive the citizenship document requirement. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can renew without coming in, or call ahead to ask what documents you actually need.

If your Real ID was lost, stolen, or damaged, you are replacing it rather than renewing it. Replacement usually requires the same documents as a new Real ID — proof of citizenship, identity, and address — so bring all three categories. Some states charge a replacement fee in addition to the Real ID fee.

What to bring if you changed your name

If you changed your name since your last ID was issued, bring proof of the name change along with your other documents. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change will work. If you changed your name through a court process, bring the certified court order. The name on your proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of address should all match your new name, or at least match each other — if they do not, bring documentation explaining the discrepancy.

Keep in mind that the DMV may ask you to update your name in their system before issuing your Real ID. If your documents show different versions of your name, explain the situation when you arrive. The DMV staff can usually resolve minor discrepancies on the spot if you have the supporting paperwork.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card itself if you have your number memorized or written down — the DMV only needs the number, not the card. You do not need to bring multiple documents in each category; one proof of citizenship, one proof of identity, and one proof of address are enough. You do not need to bring originals of everything; the DMV will photocopy most documents on site.

You do not need to bring a completed process form — the DMV will give you one to fill out at your appointment, or you may be able to fill it out online before you arrive. Check your state's DMV website to see whether pre-filling is an option. You do not need to bring your old ID card unless you are replacing it because it was damaged; if you are renewing, leave it at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photo from my phone instead of a printed photo?

No. The DMV takes a new photo of you at your appointment. You do not need to bring a photo. If the DMV requires a photo for some reason — which is rare — they will tell you when you schedule your appointment.

What if my birth certificate does not have a raised seal?

It will not work. You need an official certified copy with a raised seal or official stamp. Contact the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born and request a certified copy. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30.

Can I bring a copy of my passport instead of the original?

Most states accept a copy of your passport for proof of citizenship and identity. Call your DMV to confirm, because some states require you to show the original in person even if they will photocopy it. Bring the original to be safe.

What if I do not have a current address because I am homeless?

Some states allow you to use a shelter address, a mail forwarding address, or a friend's address with a notarized letter stating that you live there. Call your DMV and explain your situation; they can tell you what documents they will accept in your state.

Do I need to bring my old driver's license to the appointment?

Only if you are replacing it because it was damaged or lost. If you are renewing your license to add Real ID, leave your old license at home. The DMV will deactivate it in their system.