The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're starting with

Real ID requires you to prove three things: your identity, your Social Security number, and your current address. The exact documents that prove each one vary by state. Some states accept a birth certificate as proof of identity; others require a passport or certified vital record. Some accept a utility bill for your address; others want a lease or mortgage statement. Your state's DMV website lists what it will and won't take, and that list is the only one that matters for your process.

You'll also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card when you go in person — every state requires this. If you don't have one yet, you'll need an additional identity document instead, such as a passport or military ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or state-issued ID), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement).
  • Your current driver's license or ID card is required at your appointment, even though you're replacing it.
  • Each state's DMV accepts different documents, so check your state's specific list before you gather anything.
  • Certified copies of vital records cost money and take time to order, so start there if you need one.
  • If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Proof of identity: what your state will accept

Your state DMV will accept one of these as your primary identity document. A birth certificate works in most states, but it must be a certified copy — a photocopy or a document from a hospital does not count. You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born; this usually costs $15 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works everywhere and you probably already have it at home. A military ID (active duty, retired, or dependent) works in all states. Some states also accept a certificate of naturalization or permanent resident card (green card) if you were not born in the U.S.

A few states accept additional documents like a state-issued ID from another state, a tribal ID, or a foreign passport with a visa, but these vary widely. Check your state DMV's website to see the full list before you order anything.

Proof of your Social Security number

You need one document that shows your Social Security number. The easiest is your Social Security card itself — bring the actual card. If you've lost it, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card takes about two weeks.

If you don't have your card and can't wait, a tax return (federal or state) from the past year works instead. So does a W-2 form or 1099 form from your employer. Some states also accept a bank statement or mortgage statement that shows your Social Security number, though this is less common — check your state's list first.

Proof of your current address

You need one document showing your name and your current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) is the most common choice. It must be recent — most states want it dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. Check your state's requirement before you bring it.

Other documents that work include a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement. A few accept a government benefit letter (like unemployment or Social Security) if it shows your current address.

Post office mail, cell phone bills, and streaming service bills usually do not work. If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill in your new name yet, ask your utility company for a letter on company letterhead confirming your address, or bring a lease signed by both you and your landlord.

What to bring if your name has changed

If your name on your birth certificate is different from the name you use now, bring the document that shows the change. This is usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change. The document must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy.

If you've changed your name more than once, bring documents for each change in order. For example, if you were born under one name, married and changed it, then divorced and changed it again, bring the birth certificate, the marriage certificate, and the divorce decree.

Organizing your documents before you go

Make a checklist using your state DMV's website, then gather everything and lay it out at home before your appointment. Bring the originals, not photocopies — the DMV will not accept copies of your birth certificate, Social Security card, or name-change documents. You can bring photocopies of utility bills or leases if you want, but the DMV may ask to see the original anyway.

Bring your current driver's license or ID card even though you're replacing it. If you don't have one, bring an additional identity document like a passport or military ID instead. Bring your Social Security card or one of the alternative documents listed above. Bring one address document. If your name has changed, bring the proof of that change. That's it — you don't need anything else.

What happens if you're missing a document

If you show up without something, the DMV will turn you away and you'll have to reschedule. This is why checking your state's list ahead of time matters. If you're missing a certified birth certificate and don't have time to order one, ask the DMV whether they'll accept a passport or military ID instead — many will, and you may already have one at home.

If you're missing proof of your Social Security number, ask whether a recent tax return or W-2 will work. If you're missing an address document, ask whether a lease or mortgage statement is acceptable. The DMV staff can tell you what alternatives exist, but only if you call or visit their website before your appointment. Don't wait until you're there.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You need one document that shows your Social Security number — either your card or a tax return, W-2, or 1099. Bring whichever one you have. If you have both, bring just one.

Can I use a screenshot or photo of my documents on my phone?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. A photo or screenshot will not work. Bring the actual documents with you.

What if my utility bill is in my roommate's name?

It won't work — the address document must show your name and your current address. Bring a lease or rental agreement in your name instead, or ask your utility company for a letter on company letterhead confirming your address.

Do I need to bring my birth certificate if I have a passport?

No. A passport proves your identity on its own. You don't need a birth certificate too. Bring your passport, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.

How long does it take to get a certified birth certificate?

It usually takes one to three weeks by mail, depending on the state or county. Some vital records offices offer expedited service for an extra fee, which can cut it down to a few days. Call the vital records office where you were born to ask about timing and cost.