The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using to prove your identity

Every state's DMV accepts the same broad categories of documents — proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and proof of citizenship or lawful presence — but the specific documents they'll take vary. Some states accept a passport card; others don't. Some take a utility bill for address; others require a lease or mortgage statement. Before you gather anything, check your state's DMV website for the exact list, because showing up with the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

The documents listed below are the ones most states accept. Your state may accept all of them, some of them, or different ones entirely. The DMV website for your state will show you what they specifically require.

Key Takeaways

  • You need four types of documents: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of citizenship or lawful presence.
  • Each state's DMV accepts different specific documents within those categories, so you must check your state's website before gathering anything.
  • Original documents or certified copies are usually required; photocopies alone will not be accepted.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, some states offer alternatives, but you'll need to check with your DMV first.

Proof of identity documents most states accept

A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest proof of identity because it proves citizenship at the same time. If you have one, bring it — it covers two of your four requirements in one document.

A birth certificate (original or certified copy) works in most states, though some require it to be certified by the state that issued it, not just notarized. A photocopy of a birth certificate is not enough. If you were born outside the United States, you'll need a certified copy of your foreign birth certificate plus a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (green card) to prove you're a U.S. citizen or lawful resident.

A driver's license or state ID from another state counts as proof of identity in most places, even if it's expired. Some states also accept a military ID, a tribal ID, or a school ID from a college or university, though requirements vary widely.

Proof of your Social Security number

A Social Security card is the document most DMVs prefer. Bring the original card, not a photocopy. If you've lost your card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment, though this takes about two weeks.

If you don't have a Social Security card, some states accept a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form from the past two years — anything with your name and full Social Security number printed on it. A few states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number, which you can request online at ssa.gov. Check your state's DMV website to see which of these alternatives they'll take, because not all states accept all of them.

Proof of your current address

A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name dated within the last 60 days is what most states want. The document must show your current address and be recent enough to prove you actually live there now. A bill from six months ago won't work.

If you don't have a utility bill or lease, some states accept a bank statement, credit card statement, or insurance policy with your name and address. A few accept a government letter — anything from a city, county, state, or federal agency addressed to you at your current address. Some states also accept a notarized letter from a landlord or property manager if you rent and don't have a lease in your name. Again, check your state's specific list, because what counts varies.

Proof of citizenship or lawful presence

A U.S. passport or passport card covers this requirement by itself. If you have one, you don't need anything else in this category.

If you don't have a passport, you'll need a birth certificate (original or certified copy) to prove you're a U.S. citizen. If you were born outside the United States, bring your Certificate of Naturalization or your Permanent Resident Card (green card) instead. If you're not a U.S. citizen but are lawfully present — for example, on a visa — some states accept a visa stamp in your passport, an Employment Authorization Document, or a Temporary Protected Status document. Not all states accept all of these, so confirm with your DMV first.

What to bring to the DMV

Bring original documents or certified copies only. Photocopies, faxes, and photos of documents will not be accepted. If a document is certified, the certification must come from the issuing agency — a notary's stamp is not the same as a certification and usually won't work for birth certificates or other vital records.

Bring all four types of documents, even if one document covers more than one category. For example, if you bring a passport, bring it for both identity and citizenship, but still bring a separate proof of address and proof of Social Security number. Some DMVs will accept a passport alone; others won't. Bringing everything reduces the chance you'll be turned away.

If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation. A translation done by a friend or family member won't be accepted. Many DMVs can direct you to a certified translator if you need one.

If you're missing a document

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 and costs $10 to $30, depending on the state. If you need a Real ID quickly, order the birth certificate now and schedule your DMV appointment for after it arrives.

If you don't have proof of address, some states will let you use a notarized letter from someone else who lives with you, or a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or government office. Call your DMV directly to ask what they'll accept in your situation, because this varies widely and the website may not list all options.

If you don't have a Social Security number and are not a U.S. citizen, ask your DMV whether you can get a state ID instead of a Real ID. Some states offer state IDs to people without Social Security numbers; others don't. This is one of the few situations where a phone call to your DMV is faster than searching the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You need an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. A photocopy, even a notarized one, will not be accepted. If you only have a photocopy, order a certified copy from the vital records office before your appointment.

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

Bring documents showing the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change. The DMV will want to see the progression from your old name to your current name. If you changed your name but don't have the paperwork, you'll need to get a certified copy from the court or the agency that issued the original document.

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

Check your state's DMV website. Some states prefer the Social Security card and won't accept a tax return. Others accept either one. Bringing the Social Security card is safest because every state accepts it, but if you've lost it, a recent tax return, W-2, or 1099 may work in your state.

Can I use a lease agreement that's not in my name?

No. Your proof of address must have your name on it. If you rent and the lease is in someone else's name, ask your landlord for a notarized letter confirming you live there, or use a utility bill or bank statement in your name instead. Some states accept the notarized letter; others don't, so check first.

What if I was born in another country and don't have a birth certificate?

Contact the vital records office in the country where you were born to request a certified copy. If that country doesn't issue birth certificates or you can't obtain one, ask your DMV what alternative documents they'll accept — some states accept a passport, a baptism certificate, or other vital records in place of a birth certificate. Call your DMV directly, because this situation varies by state and by country.