The Documents Real ID Requires

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your date of birth. Most people bring a birth certificate or passport for identity, a Social Security card or tax return for the number, a utility bill or lease for the address, and the same birth certificate covers the date of birth. You do not need all of these as separate documents — one document often covers two categories.

The specific documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the federal Real ID standard requires the same four categories everywhere. Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents they accept in each category, because some states take documents others do not. For example, some states accept a foreign passport as proof of identity; others do not. Checking your state's list before you go saves a trip back home.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document from each of four categories: identity, Social Security number, current address, and date of birth.
  • A birth certificate typically covers both identity and date of birth, so you may need only three documents total.
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents they accept, because accepted documents vary by state.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted at the DMV counter.

Proof of Identity

For proof of identity, the most common document is a birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born. A U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license also works. Some states accept a foreign passport, a permanent resident card (green card), or a tribal ID card, but not all do.

Your birth certificate must be an official copy with a raised seal or embossed seal — a plain photocopy will not be accepted. If you were born outside the United States, you need a birth certificate issued by that country's vital records office, and some states require it to be translated into English by a certified translator. If you have never had a birth certificate issued, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born to request one.

Proof of Your Social Security Number

The easiest proof is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have it or it is damaged, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document with your full Social Security number printed on it works. Some states also accept a paystub with your full number, a bank statement, or a letter from the Social Security Administration.

If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one before you can get a Real ID. Contact your local Social Security office or visit ssa.gov to start that process. The Social Security Administration typically issues a number within two weeks, though it can take longer if documents are missing.

Proof of Your Current Address

A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement in your name works for this. The document must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days — an old bill will not be accepted. If you recently moved and your utility has not yet been transferred to your name, a lease or rental agreement is usually the fastest option because it is dated when you sign it.

If you live with someone else and the utilities are in their name, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live there. Other states do not accept this. Check your state DMV website first, because this is one area where rules differ most. If you are homeless or living in temporary housing, contact your DMV directly — most states have a workaround, though it varies.

Proof of Your Date of Birth

A birth certificate covers this category. If you are using a passport or passport card as your identity document, it also shows your date of birth, so you do not need a second document. A driver's license or state ID card you already have also works, though most people are getting a Real ID to replace an old ID, so this is less common.

The document must show your full date of birth — month, day, and year. A hospital bracelet or other informal record will not be accepted. If your birth certificate shows a different date than you remember, bring it anyway; the DMV will use what the official document says.

What to Bring to the DMV

Bring originals or certified copies of all documents. Photocopies, photos of documents, or digital images on your phone will not be accepted. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original and a certified English translation together.

Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. Some DMVs are busy, and documents left on the counter can be misplaced. You will also need to fill out an process form when you arrive — most DMVs have these at the counter, though some states let you fill it out online before you go. Bring a pen, because pencil is usually not accepted on official forms.

If You Are Missing a Document

If you do not have a birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. They can issue a certified copy, usually within one to four weeks depending on how busy they are. Some states let you order online; others require you to mail in a form with a check or money order. Fees range from about $10 to $30 for a certified copy.

If you cannot find your Social Security card, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. They can issue a replacement card at no cost. If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a document that shows your current address. Most will provide one for free or a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my birth certificate on my phone?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies in paper form. A photo or PDF on your phone will not be accepted. If you have a digital copy, print it out and bring the printout, though the DMV will likely ask for the certified original instead.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current name?

Bring both your birth certificate and a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use this to confirm the name change is legal and update your ID accordingly.

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

No. A tax return with your full Social Security number printed on it is accepted as proof of your number. You do not need to bring the card itself. Choose whichever document you have readily available.

Can my landlord's letter count as proof of address if I do not have a lease?

Some states accept a notarized letter from your landlord stating you live at the address. Others do not. Check your state DMV website first. If your state does not accept a letter, ask your landlord for a copy of the lease or ask your utility company for a bill in your name.

How long does it take to get documents like a birth certificate?

A birth certificate typically takes one to four weeks by mail, depending on the state's vital records office. Some states offer expedited service for an extra fee, which can reduce the time to three to five business days. Check the vital records office website for your state to see current wait times and fees.