The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using as proof of identity

Every state that issues Real IDs requires you to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. Beyond that, the exact documents vary. Some states accept a passport as your identity document; others want a birth certificate. Some take a utility bill for your address; others require something more recent. You'll find your state's specific list on your state's DMV website, usually under "Real ID" or "REAL ID documents needed".

The reason the list changes by state is that states run their own DMV systems and set their own rules within federal guidelines. Federal law says you must prove those three things — identity, Social Security number, and current address — but it doesn't say which documents count. A document that works in one state might not work in another.

Key Takeaways

  • You need three categories of documents: proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of your Social Security number (usually your Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (usually a utility bill or lease).
  • Each state's DMV sets its own list of acceptable documents, so you must check your specific state's requirements before you go to the DMV.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work, and the DMV staff can tell you on the spot if a document is not acceptable.
  • If you don't have a document in one category, some states offer workarounds, but these vary widely and take longer.

Proof of identity: what counts and what doesn't

Your identity document proves you are who you say you are. Most states accept a U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate. Many also accept a foreign passport if you're not yet a citizen. Some states take a military ID, a tribal ID card, or a state ID from another state. A few accept a school ID or employee ID, but only if it has your photo and signature.

What usually does not work: a Social Security card, a credit card, a library card, or a document without your photo. The DMV needs something that shows your face and your name together, or something official like a birth certificate that the government issued.

If your birth certificate is from another country, you'll need an official translation along with the original. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your birth certificate.

Proof of your Social Security number

The DMV needs to verify that the Social Security number you give them is actually yours. The easiest way is to bring your Social Security card itself. If you don't have it or it's damaged, most states accept a tax return (federal or state), a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from ssa.gov.

Some states also accept a letter from your employer showing your name and Social Security number, or a bank statement that displays your Social Security number. A few states take a medical record or insurance document with your Social Security number on it. Check your state's list to see which of these your DMV will take.

What does not work: a photocopy of your Social Security card, or a document you created yourself. The DMV wants an official document from a government agency or your employer.

Proof of your current address

You need to show that you live where you say you live. A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, internet, or phone — usually works. So does a lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank statement. Most states accept documents dated within the last 30 to 60 days, though some go back further. Check your state's rules on how recent the document needs to be.

If you don't have a utility bill or lease in your name, some states accept a government letter addressed to you at your current address — like a tax notice, voter registration card, or letter from Social Security. A few accept a cell phone bill or insurance document. A handful take a letter from a landlord or property manager on their letterhead, signed and dated, confirming your address.

What usually does not work: a piece of mail with your name and address printed on it if you didn't request it (like a credit card offer). The DMV wants something that shows you actively use that address, not just that you're on a mailing list.

What to bring if your documents don't match exactly

If your name on your birth certificate doesn't match your name on your utility bill — because you got married, divorced, or changed your name — bring the document that explains the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change will bridge the gap. The DMV staff will want to see both your old name and your new name in the right order.

If you've moved recently and your address documents are old, bring the newest one you have plus something that shows your current address, even if it's not in the categories above. Some DMVs will accept a lease agreement, a signed letter from your landlord, or a utility bill in a roommate's name if you bring a notarized statement saying you live there. Call your local DMV ahead of time to ask what they'll take in your situation.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your current driver's license or state ID — the DMV already has that on file. You do not need to bring proof of citizenship or a green card unless your state specifically asks for it (a few do). You do not need to bring your passport if you're using your birth certificate as your identity document. You do not need to bring multiple documents in the same category — one proof of identity, one proof of Social Security number, and one proof of address is enough.

You also do not need to bring originals of every document. Most states accept certified copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. Some accept photocopies of utility bills or bank statements. Ask your DMV what they'll take before you make copies.

What to do if you don't have one of the required documents

If you don't have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to four weeks. Some states let you use a passport or passport card instead while you wait for the birth certificate to arrive.

If you don't have a Social Security card and can't find a tax return or W-2, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to request a replacement card or a statement of your Social Security number. This takes one to two weeks.

If you don't have a utility bill or lease in your name, some states will let you bring two documents from a longer list — like a bank statement plus an insurance document, or a property tax bill plus a government letter. A few states offer an affidavit process where you sign a statement under oath saying where you live, though this is slower and may require a notary. Call your local DMV to find out what your state allows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy or do I have to bring the original?

Most states want originals or certified copies for identity documents like birth certificates. For address documents like utility bills, many DMVs accept photocopies or even digital copies on your phone. Call your local DMV to ask what they'll take — rules vary by state and sometimes by location.

What if my name on my documents doesn't match?

Bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use it to connect your old name to your new name and verify that the change is legal. Make sure the document is an original or certified copy.

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

No. A tax return, W-2, or other official document showing your Social Security number works just as well. You only need one document from the Social Security number category. If you have your card, bring it — it's the fastest option — but it's not required if you have something else.

How old can my utility bill be?

Most states want a utility bill dated within the last 30 to 60 days. Some go back three months. Check your state's DMV website for the exact timeframe, or call your local DMV office. If your bill is older, bring a newer one or use a different address document like a lease or bank statement.

What if I'm homeless or don't have a permanent address?

Some states let you use a shelter address, a mail forwarding service address, or a relative's address if you live there. Others offer an affidavit process. Contact your local DMV to ask what options are available in your state — the process varies widely.