What Documents You Need to Bring for a Real ID

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

Every state's Real ID office requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Beyond that, the specific documents vary. Some states accept a passport card; others don't. Some take a utility bill as proof of address; others require a lease or mortgage statement. A few states have added fingerprinting or additional background checks. The fastest way to know exactly what your state accepts is to visit your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID document list — it's usually under "Real ID" or "REAL ID Compliant Driver's License."

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. Most DMV offices will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate or passport, even if it's notarized. If you're mailing documents ahead, check your state's rules first — some allow it, others require you to bring everything in person.

Key Takeaways

You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or passport card — photocopies are not accepted at most DMV offices.
Proof of Social Security number requires an original Social Security card, W-2, or tax return; a photo of your card or a screenshot does not work.
Proof of current address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement, but it must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days in most states.
Some states require a second form of identity or proof of residency, so check your state DMV website before you go to avoid a second trip.
Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it's expired, because the DMV uses it to verify your existing record.

Proof of identity: birth certificate, passport, or passport card

You need one document from this category. A birth certificate is the most common choice. It must be an original or certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — not a hospital birth certificate, not a photocopy, and not a certified copy made by a notary public. If you were born outside the United States, your birth certificate must be translated into English by an official translator, and you must bring both the original and the translation.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works as proof of identity in all states. If you have one, bring it. You do not need to bring a birth certificate if you bring your passport. A passport book and a passport card are equally valid; a passport card is smaller and costs less to renew, but it cannot be used for international air travel.

A few states accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-545) or a Certificate of Naturalization if you were born outside the U.S. and became a citizen. Check your state's list to see if these are accepted where you live.

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

You need one document from this category. A Social Security card is the simplest option — bring the original. A photo of your card, a screenshot, or a laminated copy does not work. If you've lost your card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment, or you can bring a different document instead.

A W-2 form or 1099 form from your most recent tax year works as proof of your Social Security number. A tax return (the actual return you filed, not a transcript) also works. These must show your full Social Security number and your name. If you're self-employed or have not filed taxes recently, a benefit statement from Social Security (which you can request online at ssa.gov) is accepted in most states.

Do not bring a screenshot or digital copy of any of these documents. The DMV needs to see the original or an official certified copy.

Proof of current address: utility bill, lease, or bank statement

You need one document from this category, and it must show your name and your current address. In most states, the document must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) is the most common choice. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works. A bank statement or credit card statement works in most states, though a few do not accept credit card statements.

Some states accept a government benefit statement (such as unemployment or SNAP), a property tax bill, or a homeowners insurance policy. A few states accept mail from a government agency addressed to you at your current address. Check your state's list to see what counts.

A post office change-of-address form does not work as proof of address. Neither does a lease that is not yet in effect or a utility bill addressed to someone else at your address. If you've recently moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or mortgage statement instead.

Your current driver's license or state ID card

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it's expired. The DMV uses it to look up your existing record and verify your information. If you do not have one, tell the DMV staff when you arrive — they can usually process your Real ID without it, but it may take longer.

If your current license or ID is suspended or revoked, you still need to bring it. The Real ID process is separate from license suspension or revocation, though some states may not issue a Real ID if your driving privileges are suspended.

Additional documents some states require

A handful of states require a second form of identity or an additional proof of residency. Arizona, Colorado, and a few others ask for a second identity document if your birth certificate is more than 10 years old or if you were born outside the U.S. This might be a school ID, a military ID, or a passport. New York requires fingerprinting as part of the Real ID process. California requires proof that you changed your name if your current name differs from your birth certificate.

Your state DMV website lists these extra requirements. If you skip this step and show up without them, you'll have to reschedule. Most DMV offices do not have time to gather extra documents on the day of your appointment.

What to do if you don't have an original document

If you've lost your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $15 and $30. You can order online, by mail, or in person in most states. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the office.

If you've lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. A replacement card usually arrives within two weeks and is free. You do not need to wait for it to arrive before your DMV appointment — you can bring a W-2, tax return, or benefit statement instead.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask a family member or roommate if you can use theirs, provided it shows your name and address. Some states allow this; others do not. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. Most DMV offices require an original or certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy, even if it's notarized, is not accepted. If you have only a photocopy, order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born.

What if my name on my birth certificate doesn't match my current name?

Bring both your birth certificate and a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Some states require this; others do not. Check your state DMV website or call ahead to confirm what you need.

Can I use a digital copy of my Social Security card?

No. The DMV requires an original Social Security card or an original W-2, tax return, or benefit statement. A photo, screenshot, or PDF does not work. If you've lost your card, bring a W-2 or tax return instead.

How old can my proof of address be?

In most states, your proof of address must be dated within the last 60 days. A few states accept documents up to 90 days old. Check your state DMV website to confirm the time limit where you live.

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

No. A passport proves both your identity and your citizenship, so you do not need a birth certificate. However, you still need to prove your Social Security number with a card, W-2, tax return, or benefit statement.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.