What Documents You Need to Bring for a Real ID

The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using to prove your identity

Real ID requires you to prove three things: who you are, where you live, and that you have a Social Security number. The specific documents that satisfy each requirement vary by state. Every state accepts a passport or passport card as proof of identity, but most also accept a driver's license from another state, a birth certificate, or a military ID. For proof of residency, states typically accept a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 to 90 days. For your Social Security number, you can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return.

You will also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card when you go to the DMV. Some states require you to bring the original documents; others accept certified copies. A few states let you upload documents online before your appointment, which can speed up the process at the counter.

Key Takeaways

You need proof of identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state driver's license), proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (such as your Social Security card or a tax return).
Every state accepts a U.S. passport or passport card as proof of identity, but the other documents each state accepts differ, so check your state DMV website before you go.
Proof of residency must usually be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, and most states require original documents rather than photocopies.
Bring your current driver's license or ID card along with the three categories of proof, even if it is expired.

Proof of identity documents accepted in most states

A U.S. passport or passport card is accepted by every state and requires no additional verification. If you do not have a passport, a birth certificate issued by a state vital records office (not a hospital record) works in all states. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp.

A driver's license or ID card from another U.S. state, a military ID, or a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe are also widely accepted. Some states accept a commercial driver's license (CDL) from another state. A few states accept a permanent resident card (green card) or a U.S. passport card. Check your state DMV website to see which documents your state specifically lists, because some states have additional requirements — for example, requiring that a birth certificate be issued within a certain number of years of your birth.

Proof of residency: what documents work and how recent they must be

Proof of residency must show your current address and be dated recently — usually within 60 to 90 days of your appointment. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is accepted by every state. A lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement also work in most states. Some states accept a government-issued document such as a voter registration card, a tax return, or a vehicle registration.

The document must be an original or certified copy; photocopies are usually not accepted. If your name on the residency document does not match your name on your identity document — for example, if you recently married or changed your name — bring a document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. A few states allow you to use a second identity document instead of a separate residency document if both show your current address.

Proof of your Social Security number

Your Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you do not have it, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your full Social Security number will work. A Social Security statement (which you can request from ssa.gov) is also accepted. Some states accept a paystub or an IRS letter.

The document must show your full nine-digit Social Security number. If you have lost your Social Security card and do not have a tax document, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment, though this usually takes one to two weeks. Some DMV offices will accept a letter from the Social Security Administration stating your number if you bring it along with your other documents.

How to verify what your state requires before you go

Each state DMV publishes its own list of acceptable documents on its website. Search "[your state] DMV Real ID documents" to find the official list. Most state DMV sites also let you schedule an appointment and upload documents ahead of time, which can reduce wait time at the counter.

If you cannot find a document you need, call your state DMV or visit a local office to ask whether an alternative document will work. Some states have exceptions for people who cannot obtain certain documents — for example, if you were born outside the United States and do not have a birth certificate, some states will accept a passport or a consular report of birth abroad instead.

What to bring on the day of your appointment

Bring your current driver's license or ID card, even if it is expired. Bring originals of all identity, residency, and Social Security documents unless your state specifically says certified copies are acceptable. Bring your Social Security card itself if you have it, rather than a copy. If you have documents showing a name change, bring those too.

Some states require you to bring a completed process form; others have you fill it out at the DMV. Check your state DMV website to see whether you should bring a filled-out form or whether the DMV will provide one. Bring a pen in case you need to sign anything. If you are renewing an ID rather than getting your first Real ID, you may not need all three categories of proof — check your state's rules for renewals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate or passport?

Most states require original documents or certified copies with an official seal. A photocopy made at home is not accepted. If you have a certified copy from the vital records office or the passport agency, that will work. If you only have an original, bring the original.

What if my address on my residency document does not match my current address?

The residency document must show your current address. If it does not, bring a second document that does — for example, a recent utility bill and a lease. Some states will accept a government letter addressed to you at your current address, such as a voter registration card or a tax notice.

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

No. A tax return, W-2, or 1099 showing your full Social Security number is accepted as proof in place of the card itself. Bring whichever document you have. The document must show your complete nine-digit number.

What if I was born outside the United States and do not have a U.S. birth certificate?

A U.S. passport, passport card, or consular report of birth abroad issued by the State Department will work as proof of identity in most states. Some states also accept a permanent resident card. Check your state DMV website or call to confirm which documents are accepted for people born outside the U.S.

Can I upload my documents online instead of bringing them to the DMV?

Many states let you upload documents when you schedule your appointment online. This can speed up your visit. Check your state DMV website to see whether this option is available. If you upload documents, you may still need to bring originals or certified copies to the appointment for the DMV to verify.

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.