The documents Real ID requires depend on what you already have

To get a Real ID, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents that work vary by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You cannot use a photocopy or digital image — you must bring the original documents or certified copies.

Real ID is not a separate card you explore for. It is a security standard that your state's driver's license or ID card must meet. When you renew your license or get a new one, you can request that it be Real ID-compliant. The documents you bring are the same ones your state already requires for a regular license renewal, but Real ID adds a few stricter rules about what counts as proof.

Key Takeaways

  • You need an original birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card or tax document, and a recent utility bill or lease to prove where you live.
  • Your state DMV decides which specific documents it will accept, so a document that works in one state may not work in another.
  • You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.
  • If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, you will need a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

Proof of identity: birth certificate, passport, or military ID

Your state will ask for one document that proves who you are. The most common choice is an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. It must be a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — a photocopy you made yourself will not work.

If you do not have a birth certificate, a U.S. passport or passport card works in every state. A military ID or military dependent ID is also accepted in most states. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad if you were born outside the United States to a U.S. citizen parent, or a Certificate of Naturalization if you became a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process.

If your name on your birth certificate does not match the name you want on your Real ID, bring the document that shows the legal change. This could be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a name change. The document must be an original or certified copy.

Proof of Social Security number: card, tax form, or W-2

You need one document that shows your Social Security number. The easiest is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have it or cannot find it, you can bring a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax return that shows your number. Some states also accept a benefit statement from Social Security or a letter from the Social Security Administration.

The document must be an original or certified copy. A photocopy of your Social Security card will not work. If you have lost your card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV, or you can bring a tax document instead.

Proof of current address: utility bill, lease, or bank statement

You need one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most straightforward option. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill also works. Some states accept a bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or government benefit letter.

The document must show your name and your current street address. A PO box does not count as a current address for Real ID purposes. If you recently moved and have not yet received a bill at your new address, ask your utility company for a letter confirming your new address, or bring a lease with your name and current address on it.

What happens if you cannot find a document

If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to four weeks and costs between $10 and $30. You can often order online or by mail. If you need it faster, some states offer expedited service for an extra fee.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you can request a replacement from your local Social Security office or online at ssa.gov. Replacements are free and usually arrive within two weeks. You do not need to wait for the replacement to arrive — you can bring a tax document or benefit letter instead.

If you do not have a document showing your current address, contact your utility company and ask them to send a letter to your address, or bring a lease or rental agreement. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask your DMV what documents they will accept — some states have alternative procedures.

How to get certified copies of documents

A certified copy is an official copy stamped and signed by the government office that issued the original. For birth certificates, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Most states let you order online, by mail, or in person. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and usually the names of your parents.

For other documents like marriage certificates or divorce decrees, contact the court clerk's office in the county where the document was filed. For tax documents, you can request a copy from the IRS or your tax preparer. For Social Security benefit letters, log into your account at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.

Differences between states

Every state accepts birth certificates, passports, and military IDs as proof of identity. However, some states accept additional documents that others do not. For example, some states accept a Tribal ID, Enhanced Driver's License, or Permanent Resident Card (green card). A few states have different rules about which tax documents count as proof of Social Security number.

Before you gather your documents, check your state's DMV website to see the exact list of documents it will accept. The list is usually in the "Real ID" or "Driver's License Renewal" section. If you cannot find it online, call your local DMV office and ask what documents you should bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy or digital image of my documents?

No. You must bring original documents or certified copies. A photocopy, screenshot, or PDF will not work. The only exception is if your state DMV specifically says it will accept a digital image — check your state's website first.

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

Bring the document that shows the legal change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. It must be an original or certified copy. Your DMV will use this to confirm that the name change was legal.

Do I need to bring all three types of documents, or just one of each?

You need one document from each category: one for identity, one for Social Security number, and one for current address. You do not need to bring multiple documents from the same category unless your state specifically asks for it.

How long does it take to get a certified copy of my birth certificate?

Standard processing usually takes one to four weeks, depending on the state. Many states offer expedited service for an extra fee, which can reduce the time to three to seven business days. Check your state's vital records office website for current wait times and fees.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can bring your original birth certificate from the country where you were born, a U.S. passport, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. If your birth certificate is in another language, some states require a certified English translation. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what it will accept.