The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using to prove your identity

Real ID requires you to prove three things: who you are, where you live, and that you have a Social Security number. Every state accepts the same types of documents for each category, but some states let you use fewer documents than others, and a few states have added their own requirements on top of the federal list. You will need to bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

The federal Real ID rule, set by the Department of Homeland Security, specifies which documents count as proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. Your state's DMV or equivalent agency then decides whether to accept all of them or to require additional state-specific documents. Before you go to your appointment, check your state's DMV website to see the exact list your state accepts, because what works in one state may not work in another.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or driver's license from another state.
  • You must bring proof of your current address, which can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • You must bring proof of your Social Security number, either your Social Security card or a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form.
  • Some states require additional documents beyond the federal list, so check your state DMV website before your appointment to avoid a wasted trip.
  • All documents must be originals or certified copies; photocopies and digital images on your phone will not be accepted.

Proof of identity: what the federal list includes

The Department of Homeland Security accepts the following as proof of identity for Real ID: a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or passport book; a certified birth certificate; a driver's license or ID card from another state or territory; a tribal ID card; a permanent resident card (green card); a foreign passport with an approved I-94 or I-94W form; a military ID; or a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card from another state.

If you are using a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born — a photocopy or a hospital-issued copy will not work. If you are using a foreign passport, it must be accompanied by an approved I-94 or I-94W form from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Some states will also accept a military dependent ID card or a veteran's health identification card, so check your state's list before you assume your document will not work.

Proof of residency: documents dated within the last 60 days

You must bring a document showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and must show your full name and street address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax statement, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, a bank or credit union statement, a paycheck or pay stub, or government mail such as a tax return, voter registration card, or jury summons.

Some states accept additional documents, such as a cell phone bill, a vehicle registration, or a letter from a government agency. A few states do not accept certain documents — for example, some will not accept a cell phone bill or a credit card statement. Check your state DMV website to see which documents your state will and will not accept. If you do not have a document in your name, some states will accept a document in a spouse's or parent's name if you can show proof of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate.

Proof of Social Security number: card, tax forms, or W-2

You must bring proof of your Social Security number. The simplest option is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have your card or cannot find it, you can bring a tax return (federal or state), a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from the Social Security Administration. The document must show your full name and complete Social Security number.

If you are bringing a tax return or W-2, it must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy will not work at most DMVs. If you need a copy of your Social Security statement, you can request one from the Social Security Administration online at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The statement usually arrives by mail within two weeks.

Name change documents: if your name is different from your birth certificate

If your current name is different from the name on your birth certificate, you must bring a document showing the legal change. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, a divorce decree, an adoption decree, or a court order for a name change. The document must be an original or certified copy.

If you have been married more than once, bring all marriage certificates and divorce decrees in order, so the DMV can see the chain of name changes. If you have a court order for a name change, bring that along with your birth certificate so the DMV can see both your original name and your legal current name.

State-specific requirements: what some states add to the federal list

A handful of states require documents beyond the federal Real ID list. Some states require a second form of identity, such as a credit card or employee ID. Some require an original Social Security card rather than accepting a tax return or W-2. A few states require proof of citizenship, such as a passport or birth certificate, even though the federal rule does not require this. A small number of states require a completed process form signed in front of the DMV employee, rather than allowing you to sign it at home.

Because state requirements vary significantly, your best move is to visit your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID document checklist. Most state DMVs publish a one-page list showing exactly what documents they will accept for each category. If you cannot find the list online, call your state DMV or visit a local office and ask for the Real ID document checklist before you schedule your appointment.

What to do if you do not have an original document

If you do not have an original document and cannot get a certified copy in time, some DMVs will accept a notarized photocopy. A notary public can certify that a photocopy is a true copy of the original by signing and stamping it. You can find a notary at a bank, a UPS store, a library, or an online notary service. This option costs money — usually between $5 and $25 — and is not accepted at every DMV, so call your local office first to ask whether they will accept a notarized copy.

If you have lost your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born. Most states allow you to order online or by mail, and certified copies usually cost between $10 and $30. Processing time varies by state but typically takes one to four weeks. If you need it faster, some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, or you can sometimes pick up a copy in person at the vital records office on the same day you request it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state where you were born. A photocopy, even if notarized, is usually not accepted as proof of identity. Hospital-issued birth certificates are also not accepted.

What if my address on my proof of residency does not match my driver's license?

Bring both documents. The DMV will update your address on your Real ID to match the proof of residency you bring. Your old driver's license address does not disqualify you; the DMV just needs to see current proof of where you live.

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

No. A tax return, W-2, or 1099 form showing your full name and complete Social Security number is accepted as proof of your Social Security number. You do not need to bring your card if you have one of these documents.

Can I use a utility bill in my spouse's name as proof of residency?

Some states will accept it if you bring a marriage certificate showing you are married to the person whose name is on the bill. Other states require the document to be in your name. Check your state DMV website or call your local office to confirm what your state will accept.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can use a foreign birth certificate if it is certified and translated into English by an official translator. You must also bring proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, such as a passport, green card, or naturalization certificate. Some states have additional requirements for people born outside the U.S., so check your state DMV website.