The documents you need depend on what you're proving

REAL ID requires you to prove three things: who you are, where you live, and that you're a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The specific documents that work vary by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You'll need one document from each category, though some documents count for more than one category at once.

You cannot use a document that's expired, and some states won't accept documents that expire within a certain timeframe — usually 6 months. Check your state's DMV website for their exact rules before you gather anything, because requirements shift slightly by location.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of citizenship or lawful status — one document from each category.
  • A passport or passport card counts as all three at once, so bringing one cuts your document stack in half.
  • A driver's license or state ID alone is not enough; you must bring additional documents proving where you live and your citizenship status.
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents they accept, because some states take documents others do not.
  • Expired documents usually do not work, and some states reject documents that will expire within six months.

Proof of identity documents that work

A current passport or passport card is the strongest proof of identity and also proves citizenship at the same time. If you have one, bring it — it covers two of the three requirements by itself.

If you don't have a passport, you can use a current driver's license or state ID card from any U.S. state or territory. A military ID also works. Some states accept an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), which is a special version that already meets REAL ID standards in some states.

Other documents that count as identity proof in most states include a U.S. military dependent ID, a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a permanent resident card (green card). A few states accept a foreign passport if you also bring other documents proving your status.

Proof of address documents that work

You need a document showing your current home address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement usually works — most states accept any of these. The document must be recent, typically from the last 60 days, though some states allow up to 90 days old.

Bank statements, insurance documents, and property tax statements also count in most states. Some states accept a government check or benefits statement (like Social Security or unemployment) as long as it shows your address and is recent enough.

A few states are stricter and only accept utility bills, leases, or mortgage documents. If you're homeless or living with someone else, some states have workarounds — ask your DMV whether a notarized letter from your landlord or a shelter document will work.

Proof of citizenship or lawful status documents

A U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and is the easiest route. If you don't have one, bring your original birth certificate — not a photocopy. It must be an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born.

A Certificate of Naturalization (the document you receive when you become a U.S. citizen) also works. If you were born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, a Certificate of Citizenship serves the same purpose.

If you're a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card. Some states also accept a Permanent Resident Card or a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that shows you have lawful status. A few states accept a visa stamp in your passport, though this is less common.

What to bring if you have a passport

If you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, you can often walk in with just that document and your state ID or driver's license. The passport covers identity, citizenship, and sometimes address (if it's a passport card with your address on it). You may still need to bring a proof-of-address document depending on your state's rules.

Check your state DMV website first, because some states will let you skip the address document if you have a passport, while others still require it. A few states require you to bring the original passport, not a photocopy.

Documents that do not work

Social Security cards, school IDs, library cards, and credit cards do not count as proof of identity for REAL ID. Expired documents are rejected everywhere. A photocopy of your birth certificate does not work — you must bring the original certified copy.

Utility bills and bank statements work for address but not for identity or citizenship. A green card works for status but not for identity on its own. If a document is in a language other than English, some states require you to bring an official translation along with the original.

How to prepare before you go to the DMV

Make a list of what you have at home: your current ID, any passport, your birth certificate, and recent bills or statements. Cross-check that list against your state's DMV website — search "[your state] REAL ID documents" to find the official list.

If a document is expired or will expire soon, order a replacement before your appointment. Birth certificates take 2 to 4 weeks to arrive by mail in most states. If you're missing a document, contact the issuing agency (your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, your employer for a pay stub, your utility company for a bill) and ask what they can send you.

Bring the originals, not photocopies, unless your state specifically says a copy is acceptable. Some states let you bring originals and they'll photocopy them for you; others require you to bring copies yourself. Your DMV website will say which.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring the original certified copy from your state's vital records office. A photocopy, even if notarized, does not work. If you don't have the original, contact the vital records office in the state where you were born and request a certified copy — this usually takes 2 to 4 weeks and costs $10 to $30.

What if my address on my ID doesn't match my current address?

Bring a separate proof-of-address document showing your current home, such as a recent utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address on your new REAL ID card. You don't need to update your old ID first.

Do I need an original passport or can I bring a photocopy?

Most states accept a photocopy of your passport, but a few require the original. Check your state DMV website to be sure. If you're worried about losing your passport, bring a photocopy and call your DMV ahead of time to confirm it's acceptable.

What if I was born outside the U.S. but I'm a citizen?

Bring your Certificate of Citizenship or your U.S. passport. If you don't have either, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request a Certificate of Citizenship — this takes several weeks. A birth certificate from another country does not work.

Can I use a bank statement from six months ago for proof of address?

Most states require the document to be from the last 60 to 90 days. A six-month-old statement usually will not work. Get a recent statement from your bank, utility company, or landlord before you go to the DMV.