The documents Real ID requires, and why each one matters

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your date of birth. Most people bring a birth certificate for identity and date of birth, a Social Security card or tax return for the number, and a utility bill or lease for the address. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the four categories are the same everywhere.

The reason you need all four is that Real ID is a federal standard for identification that can be used at airport security and federal buildings. The Department of Homeland Security requires states to verify each piece of information before issuing the card. You cannot substitute one document for another — for example, a driver's license alone will not work as proof of identity, even though it contains your name and photo, because the state needs to see the original source document (usually your birth certificate) to confirm the information is real.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring documents in four categories: identity, Social Security number, current address, and date of birth.
  • A birth certificate is the most common document for identity and date of birth, but a passport or passport card also works.
  • Your state's DMV website lists all accepted documents in each category, and the list differs slightly between states.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.
  • If your name has changed, you will need a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

Identity documents: what the DMV will accept

The most common identity document is a birth certificate. It must be an original or certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. A photocopy or a birth certificate printed from an online genealogy site will not work. If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in your birth state — search "[your state] vital records" to find the office and fee.

Other identity documents that work include a U.S. passport, passport card, consular report of birth abroad, or certificate of naturalization. If you were born outside the United States, a passport from your birth country is usually accepted, but you should check your state's DMV website first because some states have restrictions. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of identity for Real ID purposes, even though it has your photo and name.

If your name on your identity document does not match the name you use now, bring the document that shows the legal change. This is usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for name change. The document must be an original or certified copy.

Social Security number: documents that prove it

A Social Security card is the simplest proof. Bring the original card. If you have lost it, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment, though this takes one to two weeks.

If you do not have a Social Security card, other documents work: a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax return showing your number. A Social Security statement (a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your earnings history) also works. You can request a statement online at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. A bank statement or credit card statement with your Social Security number does not count.

Proof of current address: documents the DMV accepts

Your current address must be shown on a document dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Other documents that work include a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, or government mail (such as a tax notice or voter registration card).

The document must show your full name and current street address. A PO box does not count as a current address. If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a lease or rental agreement signed by you and your landlord works. If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, ask them to bring the bill and sign a statement saying you live there, or bring a lease showing your name instead.

Date of birth: what documents prove it

Your birth certificate serves as proof of date of birth, so if you are bringing that for identity, you do not need a separate document for this category. If you are using a different identity document (such as a passport), that document also shows your date of birth and counts for this requirement.

If for some reason you cannot bring a document showing your date of birth, some states accept a baptism certificate, school record, or medical record as backup, but this varies by state. Check your state's DMV website to see whether these are accepted before you plan to use them.

What to do if you cannot find a document

If you have lost a birth certificate, order a replacement from the vital records office in your birth state. The fee is usually between $15 and $30, and processing takes one to three weeks. You can often order online or by mail. Search "[your state] vital records" plus the county or city where you were born to find the right office.

If you were born outside the United States and do not have a U.S. passport, a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you were born. They can issue a consular report, which serves as proof of identity and citizenship.

If you do not have a Social Security card and cannot get a tax return or statement, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov. You can request a replacement card or a statement of your earnings history. Both take one to two weeks.

Bringing documents to your DMV appointment

Bring originals or certified copies only. Photocopies, faxes, and digital images (including photos of documents on your phone) are not accepted. If a document is worn or damaged, bring the original anyway — the DMV staff will decide whether it is readable enough to accept.

Bring all four categories of documents even if you think one might not be perfect. The DMV staff can tell you on the spot whether a document works or whether you need to bring something else. If a document is rejected, you can reschedule your appointment and come back once you have found an acceptable one.

Check your state's DMV website before you go. Each state has a slightly different list of accepted documents, and some states have additional requirements (such as proof of residency for people who have recently moved). Your state's website will also tell you the current fee for Real ID and whether you need to make an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original or certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy, even if notarized, is not accepted. If you only have a photocopy, order a certified copy from the vital records office in your birth state.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current name?

Bring both your birth certificate and the document showing the legal change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DMV will verify that the name change was legal and update your Real ID to your current name.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a tax return?

No. Either one works. If you have your Social Security card, bring that because it is simpler. If you do not have the card, a W-2, 1099, or tax return showing your number is fine.

Can I use a bank statement as proof of address if it is older than 60 days?

No. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If your most recent statement is older, bring a different document (such as a utility bill or lease) that is more recent, or wait until you receive a newer statement.

What if I was born outside the United States and do not have a passport?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your birth country and request a consular report of birth abroad. This document proves your identity and citizenship and is accepted by all states for Real ID. Processing takes several weeks, so start early.