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 prove three things: who you are, where you live, and that you have a Social Security number. Every state accepts the same types of documents for each category, but some states let you bring fewer documents than others, and a few states have their own additions. The fastest way to know exactly what your state wants is to check your state's DMV website before you go — most have a checklist you can print.
You will always need to bring an original document or a certified copy (not a photocopy). A certified copy is one stamped by the government office that issued it. If you bring a photocopy, the DMV will turn you away.
Key Takeaways
- You need one document proving who you are, one proving where you live, and proof of your Social Security number — all originals or certified copies.
- A passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license counts as your identity document and may let you skip the address proof.
- Birth certificates must be certified copies with a raised seal or embossed stamp, not plain photocopies from a vital records office.
- Your state DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts, because some states add their own requirements beyond the federal list.
- If you don't have a document in one category, ask the DMV what alternatives they accept — many states have backup options.
Documents that prove who you are
You need one document from this list. It must show your full legal name and either a photo or your date of birth.
A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest choice because it covers identity, citizenship, and sometimes address all in one. If you have one, bring it — you may not need to bring anything else. An enhanced driver's license (marked with a star or flag) also works and counts as proof of identity and residence together.
If you don't have a passport, bring a certified birth certificate. This must have a raised seal, embossed stamp, or official signature from the vital records office — a plain photocopy will not work. You get a certified copy by ordering it from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born, not from a genealogy website or a generic document service.
Other documents the DMV accepts for identity include a certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship (if you were not born in the U.S.), a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a military ID, or a consular ID card from your country's embassy or consulate.
Documents that prove where you live
You need one document showing your current address. It must have been issued or renewed within the last 60 days, or it must show an address that matches where you live now.
A utility bill in your name works — electric, gas, water, internet, or phone. A lease or mortgage statement also works. So does a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy.
If none of those are in your name or current address, some states accept a government check or benefit statement (like unemployment or Social Security), a paystub, or a letter from a government agency. A few states accept a voter registration card or school enrollment letter. Check your state's list before you go, because what counts varies.
If you have a passport, enhanced driver's license, or military ID, you may not need a separate address document — some states treat those as proof of residence. Ask your DMV.
Documents that prove your Social Security number
You need one document showing your Social Security number. The DMV will not call Social Security to verify it for you.
A Social Security card is the standard choice. If you don't have one, bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a recent paystub with your full Social Security number on it. Some states accept a tax return or a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or unemployment.
If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration. Bring your birth certificate and proof of identity to your local Social Security office. This takes a separate trip and can take several weeks.
What to bring if you were born outside the U.S.
If you were not born in the United States, you need proof of citizenship or lawful status in addition to the three categories above. Bring one of these: a U.S. passport, a certificate of naturalization, a certificate of citizenship, a permanent resident card (green card), or an employment authorization document.
If you have a green card or work authorization, the card itself counts as your identity document, so you may not need to bring a separate birth certificate. Check your state's requirements.
What to bring if your name has changed
If your legal name is different from the name on your birth certificate, bring a document showing the change. This includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for name change, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or certified copy.
If you changed your name through marriage and later divorced, bring both the marriage certificate and the divorce decree. The DMV needs to see the chain of name changes to match your birth certificate to your current legal name.
Documents you do not need to bring
You do not need to bring proof of citizenship if you were born in the U.S. — your birth certificate is enough. You do not need to bring your Social Security card if you have a recent paystub or tax return with your number on it. You do not need to bring multiple documents in the same category; one from each category is sufficient.
You also do not need to bring documents that are not on your state's list. Bringing extra documents will not speed up the process. Stick to what your state DMV says it wants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photocopy instead of an original?
No. The DMV will reject photocopies. You must bring an original document or a certified copy with an official seal or stamp. If your original is damaged or you cannot find it, order a certified copy from the office that issued it.
What if my address on my documents does not match where I live now?
Bring a document issued or renewed within the last 60 days with your current address. If all your documents show an old address, a recent utility bill or lease in your name will work instead. Some states also accept a letter from a government agency confirming your current address.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a paystub?
No. A paystub with your full Social Security number on it counts as proof. You can bring either the card or the paystub, not both. If you bring a paystub, make sure your full nine-digit number is visible.
What if I was born outside the U.S. but I am a U.S. citizen?
Bring a certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship along with your other documents. If you have a U.S. passport, that alone proves citizenship and identity, so you may not need anything else. Check your state's specific requirements.
How long does it take to get a certified birth certificate?
It varies by state and county. Most vital records offices mail certified copies within one to two weeks, but some take longer during busy periods. Order online or by mail if your state offers it, since in-person requests sometimes have longer wait times. Plan ahead if you need it for a specific appointment.