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 bring proof of three things: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. The exact documents that count vary by state — some accept a utility bill for address proof, others require a lease or mortgage statement. You'll also need to bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even though you're replacing it.

The fastest way to know what your state accepts is to visit your state's DMV website directly and look for the Real ID document list. Each state publishes this, and it's more current than any general guide. If you can't find it online, call your local DMV office — they can tell you in one call whether the documents you have will work.

Key Takeaways

  • You need to bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of address (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return).
  • Your current driver's license or state ID card must come with you even though you're getting a new one.
  • Each state has its own list of which documents it accepts, so check your state DMV website before you go to the office.
  • If a document is expired, some states still accept it for Real ID purposes — call ahead to confirm.

Proof of identity: what counts

You need one document that proves your legal name and date of birth. A U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate all work in every state. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.

If you don't have any of these, some states will accept a foreign passport, but only if you also bring proof that you're a lawful permanent resident or have a valid visa. Check your state's list before you assume a foreign passport will work — not all states take them.

Proof of address: documents the DMV will take

You need one document showing your current home address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days works in most states. So does a lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance policy.

Some states also accept a bank statement, credit card statement, or government mail (like a tax return or benefits letter) as long as it shows your name and address. A few states accept a cell phone bill. The key is that the document must show your current address — a bill from an old apartment won't work, even if it's recent.

If you've recently moved and don't have a bill in your new address yet, ask the DMV what they'll accept instead. Some offices will take a lease with a start date that hasn't passed yet, or a utility bill showing a pending service start date.

Proof of Social Security number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. Your Social Security card is the most straightforward option. If you don't have it, a tax return (federal or state), a W-2 form, or a 1099 form all work.

Some states also accept a benefit statement from Social Security, a Medicare card, or a Medicaid card. If you're self-employed and don't have a W-2 or 1099, bring a copy of your most recent tax return — the IRS copy you filed, not a draft.

Your current ID and any name-change documents

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even though you're replacing it. The DMV needs to see it to process your Real ID process.

If your name has changed since your birth certificate or other identity document was issued — through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — bring the document that shows the change. This might be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Without it, the DMV may not be able to match your documents to each other.

What to bring if you're renewing or replacing your ID

If you're renewing your license at the same time you're getting Real ID, the rules are the same — bring all three types of proof (identity, address, Social Security number). Some states let you renew online or by mail, but Real ID conversions almost always require an in-person visit, so plan to go to the DMV office.

If you're replacing a lost or stolen ID, bring the same documents. Some states ask you to file a report with the DMV first, but most just need you to bring your documents and tell them in person that your old card is gone.

Documents you don't need to bring

You don't need to bring your passport unless you're using it as your proof of identity. You don't need to bring multiple documents of the same type — one utility bill is enough, one tax return is enough. You don't need to bring originals of everything; most states accept photocopies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and tax returns.

Check your state's website to see which documents they want in original form and which they'll take as copies. Some states want to see the original Social Security card but will photocopy it for you at the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired utility bill or lease?

Most states accept an address document dated within the last 60 days. If your bill or lease is older than that, call your DMV office — some will make exceptions if you've just moved and don't have a newer bill yet, or if you can bring a second document showing the same address.

What if I don't have a Social Security card?

A W-2, 1099, or tax return all work. If you don't have any of those, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a benefit statement. You can order a replacement card online at ssa.gov or by phone at 1-800-772-1213.

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

No. A passport proves your identity and citizenship, so you don't need a birth certificate too. Bring whichever one you have. If you have both, one is enough.

What if my address on my lease doesn't match my utility bill?

Bring both documents. The DMV will use them together to confirm your address. If they show different addresses, tell the DMV staff which one is current — they may ask for a third document to confirm, or they may accept your explanation.

Can I bring digital copies or photos of my documents?

Most states require physical copies or originals. Some DMV offices now accept photos of documents taken on your phone, but this varies by location and document type. Call your local DMV office before you go to ask whether they'll accept photos instead of paper copies.