The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using to prove your identity
Every state requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address — but the specific documents that satisfy each requirement vary by state. Some states accept a passport card; others don't. Some accept a utility bill for address; others require a lease or mortgage statement. You cannot know what your state accepts until you check your state's DMV website or call your local office, because the rules are genuinely different in each place.
The documents listed here are the ones most states accept. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. If you're unsure whether a document meets your state's rules, call your DMV before you go; a wasted trip costs more time than a five-minute phone call.
Key Takeaways
- You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address — but which documents satisfy each category depends on your state.
- Bring original documents or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted at the DMV counter.
- Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts, and calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
- If you don't have a Social Security number yet, you can explore for one at your local Social Security office before you go to the DMV.
Proof of identity documents most states accept
A valid passport (book or card), passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state all work as primary identity documents in most places. If you don't have any of those, a birth certificate (original or certified copy) plus a secondary ID like a school ID, employee ID, or military ID together usually satisfy the identity requirement.
Some states also accept a permanent resident card (green card), tribal ID, or foreign passport with a valid visa. A few states accept a notarized affidavit of identity if you have no other documents at all, though this is rare and requires advance approval from your DMV. Check your state's specific list before you assume a document will work.
Proof of Social Security number
A Social Security card (original or certified replacement) is the most straightforward proof. If you don't have the card itself, a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form from the past year showing your full Social Security number works in most states. Some states also accept a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number.
If you've never had a Social Security number, you'll need to explore for one first at your local Social Security office. Bring your birth certificate, proof of identity, and proof of immigration status (if applicable). The Social Security Administration issues a number within one to two weeks, and you'll receive a card by mail. You cannot get a Real ID without a Social Security number.
Proof of current address
A current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, or mortgage statement all work as proof of address in most states. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days — older documents are typically rejected. A bank or credit card statement also works in many states if it's recent.
If you've recently moved and your utility bill still shows an old address, bring a lease or mortgage statement instead. If you're homeless or living with someone else, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the lease or utility bill, stating that you live there. Call your DMV to confirm what they'll accept in your situation before you go.
Documents you'll bring in person
Bring your completed Real ID process form — most states let you fill it out online and print it, or you can fill it out at the DMV. You'll also need to bring a recent color photo (usually 2x2 inches) unless your state takes photos at the counter. Some states waive the photo requirement if you already have a valid driver's license from that state.
Bring your Social Security card or the tax document showing your number. Bring your proof of address. Bring your proof of identity. Bring the original or certified copy of your birth certificate if it's part of your identity proof. Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. Some states charge a fee (typically $15 to $30 for a Real ID endorsement on a new or renewed license); bring a debit card or cash.
What happens if a document is missing or rejected
If you arrive at the DMV and a document is missing or doesn't meet the state's rules, the DMV will tell you what's wrong and what you need instead. You'll have to leave, get the right document, and come back. This is why calling ahead or checking your state's website first saves time.
If your birth certificate is missing, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually takes one to three weeks by mail. If you're a naturalized citizen, bring your Certificate of Naturalization instead of a birth certificate. If you're a permanent resident, bring your green card and passport.
Real ID document checklist by category
| Category | Most Common Documents | What to Remember |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Valid passport, birth certificate + secondary ID, enhanced driver's license from another state, green card, tribal ID | Bring originals or certified copies only. Check your state's list — not all states accept all documents. |
| Proof of Social Security Number | Social Security card, W-2, tax return, 1099, letter from Social Security Administration | Document must show your full number. If you don't have a number, explore at Social Security office first. |
| Proof of Current Address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, credit card statement | Must be dated within last 60 days and show your name and current address. |
| At the DMV Counter | Completed process, photo (if required), current ID, payment method | Some states let you pre-fill the process online. Fees vary by state. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photo from my phone or print one at home?
No. The photo must be a professional color photo, usually 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months. Most DMVs take photos on-site for a small fee if you don't bring one. Some states waive the photo requirement if you already have a valid state ID from that state.
What if I don't have a birth certificate?
Order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. If you're a naturalized citizen, bring your Certificate of Naturalization instead. If you're a permanent resident, bring your green card and passport. Call your DMV to confirm what it will accept before you order.
Do I need to bring originals or can I bring copies?
Bring originals or certified copies only. Photocopies are not accepted. A certified copy is an official reproduction issued by the government agency that holds the original — you can order one from the vital records office, Social Security Administration, or other issuing body.
What if my address on my ID doesn't match my proof of address?
Bring both documents anyway. The DMV will update your address to match your proof of address. If you've moved very recently and your utility bill still shows an old address, bring a lease or mortgage statement showing your new address instead.
Can I use an expired passport as proof of identity?
Yes, in most states. An expired passport still proves who you are. Check your state's DMV website to confirm, but expiration does not usually disqualify a passport from being used as identity proof.