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 show proof of three things: who you are, where you live, and that you're a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. Most states ask for a birth certificate or passport to prove citizenship, a utility bill or lease to prove your address, and a government-issued ID to prove identity. Some states accept a Social Security card instead of a birth certificate; others require both. A few states have their own variations — for example, some accept a tribal ID as proof of citizenship, while others do not.

The specific documents accepted vary by state because each state's motor vehicle agency sets its own rules within federal Real ID guidelines. Before you go to the DMV, check your state's website or call ahead. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip and a delayed Real ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need proof of identity (such as a current passport or driver's license), proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease).
  • Each state accepts a slightly different list of documents, so you must check your state's DMV website before you go.
  • Original documents or certified copies are usually required — photocopies alone will not work.
  • Bring your Social Security number or card, because most states ask for it even though they may not require the card itself.

Proof of identity documents most states accept

A current or expired passport is the strongest proof of identity because it shows your name, photo, and date of birth. A current driver's license or state ID card also works. If you do not have either, most states accept a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a foreign national ID paired with a visa or travel document.

The document does not have to be current — an expired driver's license from another state is usually fine. What matters is that it shows your name and photo clearly enough for the DMV worker to match it to your face. If your name has changed since the ID was issued, bring a document showing the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).

Proof of citizenship documents most states accept

A certified birth certificate is the most common choice. It must be an official copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — not a hospital-issued birth certificate or a photocopy. If you were born outside the United States, a passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) also works.

Some states accept a Social Security card as a substitute for a birth certificate, but most do not. Even if your state does not require it, bring your Social Security card or number anyway, because nearly all states ask for it during the process. If you do not have a birth certificate and cannot get one quickly, ask the DMV which alternative documents your state accepts — options vary widely.

Proof of address documents most states accept

A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement in your name works in almost every state. The document must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days (some states allow up to 90 days). A bank statement, insurance bill, or government letter also works in most places.

If you have recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a lease signed by you and your landlord is usually accepted even if the utility is still in the previous tenant's name. If you live with family or in a shared space and have no document in your name, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, confirming you live there. Check your state's rules first — this option is not available everywhere.

What "original" and "certified copy" mean, and why it matters

An original document is the actual certificate or card issued by the government or organization. A certified copy is a photocopy stamped and signed by the issuing office, confirming it is a true copy of the original. A regular photocopy made at home or a print shop is not acceptable for Real ID.

For a birth certificate, you must order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. For a marriage certificate or divorce decree, order a certified copy from the county clerk's office. For a passport, bring the original. For utility bills and leases, originals are fine — they do not need to be certified.

Getting certified copies takes time. A birth certificate ordered by mail can take two to four weeks; ordering online or in person is faster. Plan ahead, especially if you were born in a state far from where you live now.

Name changes and documents that do not match

If your name on your birth certificate does not match the name on your ID, bring a document showing the legal change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a name change all work. The DMV will not process your Real ID if your documents show different names without proof of the change.

If you have a common name and the DMV worker questions whether the documents are really yours, a Social Security card or a second piece of ID with your photo can help. Bring anything with your name and identifying information — old passports, military discharge papers, or school IDs are useful backup.

Documents you do not need but should bring anyway

Your Social Security number is required in every state, but not every state requires you to bring the card itself. Bring it anyway — it speeds up the process and proves your number if there is a question. If you have lost your card, you can explore for a replacement at a Social Security office, but that is a separate process that takes time.

If you have changed your address recently, bring proof of your old address as well as your new one. Some states use both to verify your identity. If you have any documents showing your name, citizenship status, or address that are not on the required list, bring them — they can help if there is a question about any of your information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a hospital-issued birth certificate instead of a certified copy?

No. Hospital birth certificates are not official documents and are not accepted for Real ID. You must order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This is the only document that will work.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). If you have a foreign birth certificate, it must be certified and translated into English by an official translator. Some states accept this; others do not. Check your state's DMV website first.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring photocopies?

Original documents or certified copies are required. Photocopies made at home will not work. The only exception is utility bills and leases, which can be originals. For birth certificates and legal documents, order certified copies from the issuing office.

What if my address on my lease does not match my ID?

Bring both documents. The DMV will use them together to verify your current address. If you have recently moved, bring the lease for your new place and a utility bill or other document showing your new address. The documents do not have to match your ID — they just have to show where you live now.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID if I cannot go to the DMV?

Rules vary by state. Some states allow a family member or authorized representative to pick up your Real ID with a signed letter from you. Others require you to be present. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to ask whether a representative can collect it on your behalf.