What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

The documents Real ID requires depend on what you're proving: your identity, your citizenship or legal presence, your Social Security number, and your current address

Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. To get one, you must show your state's DMV four categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You cannot use a document from one category to satisfy another — a passport, for example, proves both identity and citizenship, but you still need a separate document showing your address.

The specific documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the federal standard sets the floor. Your state DMV's website lists exactly what it accepts in each category. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies alone will not work. You will also need to bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one.

Key Takeaways

You need four separate document categories: identity, citizenship or legal presence, Social Security number, and current address — one document cannot cover two categories.
A passport or passport card satisfies both identity and citizenship but does not replace the need for address and Social Security proof.
Originals or certified copies are required; photocopies and digital images are not accepted.
Your state DMV's website lists which specific documents it accepts, because some variation exists between states.
The process typically takes 15 to 45 minutes at the DMV, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Proof of identity: what documents work

For identity, the DMV accepts a current or expired passport, passport card, military ID, or a previous driver's license or state ID from any state. Some states also accept a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a commercial driver's license (CDL), or a permanent resident card (green card). A few states accept a foreign national ID if you are not yet a U.S. citizen.

The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photograph. If your passport or military ID is expired, it still counts as proof of identity for Real ID purposes — the federal standard does not require the identity document itself to be current. However, if you are renewing your driver's license and your old license is expired, some states will not accept it and will require a passport or other federal ID instead.

If you do not have any of these documents, you will need to obtain one before you can get a Real ID. A passport or passport card is the most portable option and works in every state. explore for a passport takes four to six weeks through the State Department, or one to two weeks if you pay for expedited processing.

Proof of citizenship or legal presence: documents the DMV will accept

To prove you are a U.S. citizen or have legal presence in the country, you can show a birth certificate, passport, passport card, naturalization certificate, permanent resident card (green card), Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or a Tribal Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood. A few states also accept a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa, or a Refugee Travel Document.

The birth certificate must be an official or certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born — a hospital-issued copy or a photocopy will not work. If you were born outside the United States, a passport or naturalization certificate is usually the easiest route. If you have a green card or EAD, bring the original card itself.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but have legal status, your green card or EAD serves this purpose. If your green card or EAD is expired, it still counts for Real ID as long as you can show it is still valid through USCIS records — call USCIS or check your case status online before you go to the DMV to confirm.

Proof of your Social Security number

You must show a document that displays your Social Security number. The DMV accepts a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement. The document must be an original or certified copy and must show your name and your full nine-digit Social Security number.

A Social Security card is the simplest option. If you have lost your card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration online, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card typically arrives within two weeks.

If you use a pay stub or bank statement, make sure your full Social Security number is visible on the document. Some employers or banks print only the last four digits for privacy. If that is the case, you will need to bring a different document or contact your employer or bank to request a version that shows the full number.

Proof of your current address

The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document (such as a tax return or voter registration card) that shows your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days, though some states allow up to 90 days. An original or certified copy is required.

If you have recently moved and your utility bill or lease has not yet been updated to your new address, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your old address plus a document showing your new address — such as a lease, a utility bill in your name, or a piece of mail from a government agency. Some states will accept a notarized letter from your landlord confirming your current address if you cannot produce a dated document.

If you live with someone else and the utility bill or lease is in their name, ask them to bring the bill or lease with them, or ask them to write a notarized letter confirming that you live at that address. Policies vary by state; call your DMV ahead of time to confirm what they will accept.

What to bring to the DMV: the complete checklist

Gather one document from each of the four categories above, plus your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. Bring originals or certified copies — do not bring photocopies or images on your phone. If any document has your old name (such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree), bring that as well so the DMV can update its records.

Some states require you to fill out an process before you arrive; check your state DMV's website to see if you can read and complete it at home. Bringing a completed process can shorten your wait time. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms at the DMV.

If you are renewing your license and it is not expired, you may be able to renew by mail or online in some states — but only if your address has not changed and you do not need to update your photo. Real ID upgrades typically require an in-person visit.

Real ID important date and when you need it

As of May 7, 2025, a Real ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If your state-issued ID does not have a gold star or other Real ID marking, you will need a passport or other federal ID to fly. Some states began issuing Real IDs years ago; others are still in the process. Check your state DMV's website to see what marking indicates a Real ID in your state.

If your current driver's license or ID is not yet Real ID compliant, you do not have to upgrade when ready — you can continue to use it for driving and other purposes. You only need Real ID if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building. However, many people upgrade when they renew their license anyway, since the process is the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents on my phone?

No. The DMV requires originals or certified copies. Digital images, screenshots, and photocopies are not accepted. If you have a digital copy, print it out and bring the printed version, or bring the original document itself.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate can work if you also have a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or green card. If you do not have one of those, you will need to obtain a U.S. passport first, which requires submitting your foreign birth certificate to the State Department.

Do I need to bring all four documents if I have a passport?

Yes. A passport proves identity and citizenship, but you still need separate documents showing your Social Security number and current address. The DMV cannot use one document to satisfy multiple categories.

What if my address on my lease does not match my ID?

Bring both documents. The DMV will update your address to match the lease or other proof of current residence. If the lease is in someone else's name, bring a notarized letter from that person confirming you live there, or ask them to come with you.

How long does it take to get a Real ID after I explore?

You receive your Real ID on the spot at most DMVs after your process is processed, which typically takes 15 to 45 minutes. If the DMV needs to verify your documents with another agency, it may mail your ID to you within one to two weeks.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.