The documents you'll need depend on what you're proving

A Real ID requires you to prove three things: who you are, where you live, and that you're a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. The specific documents that work for each vary by state, but the categories stay the same. You'll bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone won't work — and the DMV will keep some of them on file.

Most people bring one document for identity, one for address, and one for citizenship status. Some documents count for more than one category, which can save you a trip. The DMV website for your state lists exactly which documents they accept, because not every state takes the same thing.

Key Takeaways

  • You need to prove identity (usually a driver's license or passport), current address (utility bill or lease), and citizenship or legal residency (birth certificate or passport).
  • Original documents or certified copies are required — the DMV will not accept photocopies or digital images.
  • Some documents like a U.S. passport count for identity and citizenship at once, reducing the number of papers you need to bring.
  • Your state DMV website lists the exact documents they accept, since requirements vary by state.
  • Bring your Social Security number or card, because the Real ID process includes a Social Security verification step.

What counts as proof of identity

For identity, most states accept a current driver's license or passport card. If you don't have either, a state ID card works. Some states also accept a passport book, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. The document needs to have your photo and signature on it.

If your current ID is expired, many states will still take it as proof of identity for the Real ID process — the point is to verify who you are, not whether your old ID is still valid. Check your state's DMV website to confirm, because a few states have stricter rules.

What counts as proof of address

For current address, the DMV wants a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works in every state. So does a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement with your address on it.

Some states also accept a property tax bill, an insurance policy, or a government check. A few states take a letter from your employer or a school enrollment document. The document has to be an original or certified copy — a screenshot or photocopy will not work. If you've moved recently and don't have a bill in your new name yet, ask the DMV what temporary proof they'll take; many will accept a lease or a letter from your landlord.

What counts as proof of citizenship or legal residency

For citizenship, a U.S. birth certificate is the most common choice. It needs to be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed seal — the kind you get from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born, not a photocopy from a hospital. A U.S. passport or passport card also proves citizenship and counts for identity at the same time.

If you're a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card and a state ID or driver's license. Some states also accept a Certificate of Naturalization if you became a citizen through the naturalization process. If you're a citizen but don't have a birth certificate, ask your state DMV what alternatives they accept — some will take a passport, a naturalization certificate, or a consular report of birth abroad.

Documents you'll need to bring but won't leave behind

Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it, like a tax return or W-2. The DMV will verify your number with the Social Security Administration as part of the Real ID process, but they don't keep the card itself.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. The DMV uses it to check your driving record and confirm your identity, then returns it to you. If you're renewing your license at the same time you're getting Real ID, you may not get it back until your new one arrives in the mail.

What to do if you don't have the standard documents

If you were born outside the United States but are a citizen, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad will work. If you don't have any of these, contact the U.S. State Department or the USCIS office that handles your case.

If you don't have a birth certificate and can't get one, ask your state DMV what they'll accept instead. Some states have a process for people in this situation and may take a combination of documents — for example, a passport plus a school record plus a baptism certificate. The DMV website for your state will list these alternatives, or you can call and ask.

How to get certified copies of documents you need

A certified copy of your birth certificate comes from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. You can usually order it online, by mail, or in person. It costs between $10 and $30 depending on the state, and takes one to two weeks by mail. If you need it faster, many vital records offices offer expedited service for an extra fee.

For other documents like utility bills or lease agreements, the originals you already have will work — you don't need a certified copy. If you need a certified copy of a mortgage statement or bank statement, contact your lender or bank and ask for one. Some will provide it free; others charge a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of a birth certificate?

Yes. A U.S. passport card proves both identity and citizenship, so you can bring just that and a proof of address. You won't need a separate birth certificate.

What if my address on my ID doesn't match where I live now?

Bring a current proof of address document dated within the last 60 days, like a utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address on your Real ID even if your old ID shows a different one.

Do I need to bring originals, or can I bring copies?

Originals or certified copies only. The DMV will not accept photocopies or digital images. Some documents like utility bills can be originals you already have; others like birth certificates must be certified copies from the issuing office.

What if I was born in another country but I'm a U.S. citizen?

Bring a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad. If you don't have any of these, contact the U.S. State Department or USCIS to find out how to get one before you go to the DMV.

Can I use my green card as proof of citizenship?

No. A green card proves you're a lawful permanent resident, not a citizen. If you're a permanent resident, bring your green card plus a state ID or driver's license. If you want to get Real ID as a citizen, you'll need a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate.