The documents you need depend on whether you're renewing, replacing a lost or stolen license, or changing your name
Every state requires a Real ID-compliant document proving who you are — a passport, passport card, or birth certificate — plus proof of your current address. If you're replacing a lost or stolen license rather than renewing, you'll also need to report it to your state's DMV before you can get a replacement. If your name has changed since your last license, bring the legal document that proves it: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
The exact list varies by state. Some states accept a utility bill for address proof; others require a lease or mortgage statement. Some accept a Social Security card as identity proof; others do not. Your state's DMV website lists what it accepts, but the fastest way to know for certain is to call your local DMV office or visit in person with what you have — staff can tell you on the spot whether a document works.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a Real ID-compliant document (passport, passport card, or birth certificate) to prove your identity, plus proof of your current address.
- If you're replacing a lost or stolen license, report it to your DMV first — you cannot get a replacement without that report.
- If your name has changed, bring the legal document that proves it: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- State requirements vary, so check your state DMV's website or call your local office before you go, because some documents are accepted in one state but not another.
- Bring your current license if you still have it, even if it's expired — it speeds up the process and helps staff verify your information.
Identity documents that work in most states
A U.S. passport or passport card is accepted everywhere and requires no additional identity proof. If you have either one, bring it and you're done with the identity part of the process.
A birth certificate is the next most common choice. It must be an official certified copy from the state or county where you were born — not a photocopy, not a hospital record. If you don't have one, you can order it from your state's vital records office (usually part of the health department). This takes one to four weeks depending on the state, so order it early if you need it.
Some states accept a Social Security card as part of identity proof, but only alongside another document like a birth certificate or passport. A few states do not accept it at all. Check your state's list before you count on it.
A tribal ID card, military ID, or state ID card from another state may work, but rules vary. Call your DMV to confirm before you make a trip.
Address proof documents
Your DMV needs to see that you live where you say you do. The document must show your current name and current address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days in most states (some allow up to 90 days). Older documents are usually rejected.
Documents that work in most states include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, a car insurance policy, or a phone bill. A few states accept a letter from a government agency, a school, or an employer that shows your name and address.
Documents that do not work include a driver's license from another state (that's identity proof, not address proof), a post office box address, or a document with only a partial address. If you've recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring a forwarding order from the post office or a utility company's address change confirmation.
What to bring if your name has changed
If you're getting a license under a different name than the one on your current license, you must bring the legal document that proves the change. This is required in every state.
A marriage certificate is the most common proof. It must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy. If you were married outside the United States, bring the original or a certified translation.
A divorce decree or dissolution order proves a name change back to a maiden name or previous name. It must show the new name you're taking and be certified by the court that issued it.
A court order for name change is used when you've legally changed your name through the court system (not through marriage or divorce). Bring the certified order from the court.
What to do if your license was lost or stolen
Before you can get a replacement, you must report the loss or theft to your state's DMV. Most states let you do this online, by phone, or in person. Some charge a small fee for a replacement (usually $10 to $30); others do not. Check your state's website to see whether you can report it online or whether you must visit an office.
When you report it, the DMV cancels the old license so it cannot be used. You'll receive a confirmation number or report number — bring this with you when you explore for the replacement. If your license was stolen and you're concerned about identity theft, you can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov, though this is separate from the DMV process.
Documents to bring even if they're not required
Bring your current driver's license if you still have it, even if it's expired. It speeds up the process and helps staff verify your information against their records. If it was lost or stolen, bring the report number you received when you reported it.
Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized. You'll need it to fill out the process form. If you don't know it, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it.
Bring proof of your state residency if you've moved to the state recently and don't have a utility bill or lease yet. A letter from an employer, school, or government agency with your name and address may work. Call ahead to confirm.
How to find out what your specific state requires
Visit your state's DMV website and look for "replace driver's license" or "lost or stolen license." The page will list exactly what documents your state accepts. If the list is unclear or you have a document that might work but isn't listed, call your local DMV office. Staff can tell you in seconds whether a specific document will be accepted.
Many states also let you upload photos of your documents before you visit, so the office can pre-check them. This saves time on the day you explore. Look for this option on your state's website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of the original?
No. You must bring an official certified copy from the state or county where you were born. A photocopy or hospital record will not work. If you don't have the certified copy, order it from your state's vital records office before you visit the DMV.
What if I don't have a current address proof document?
Call your DMV and ask what alternatives they accept. Some states accept a letter from an employer, school, or government agency. Others accept a utility company's address change confirmation or a post office forwarding order. A few states will accept a notarized statement from someone who lives with you. Do not guess — call first.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card?
You need your Social Security number, but you don't necessarily need the card itself. You can write the number down or memorize it. However, if you don't know your number, bring the card so staff can read it. Some states accept the card as part of identity proof, but most do not — check your state's list.
Can I replace my license if it's expired?
Yes. An expired license is still valid for replacement purposes. Bring it with you — it helps staff verify your information. If your license was lost or stolen rather than expired, you'll need to report that to your DMV first.
How long does it take to get a replacement license after I explore?
Most states issue a temporary license on the spot or within a few days, and mail the permanent license within one to two weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. Ask at your local DMV office what the timeline is for your state.