Bring proof of identity, proof of residence, and your Social Security number
You need to show the DMV three things at your Real ID appointment: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. The DMV will not process your process without all three. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. The exact documents that count vary slightly by state, so check your state DMV website before you go, but the categories are the same everywhere.
Plan to spend 10 to 15 minutes at the appointment itself, but bring extra time in case the office is busy. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms by hand. If you wear glasses for driving, wear them to your appointment — the photo will be taken with them on if that is how you normally drive.
Key Takeaways
- Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or state ID — one document that proves your legal name and date of birth.
- Bring two documents showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your full Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2.
- Bring your current driver's license or state ID card if you have one, even though you are renewing it.
- Check your state DMV website before your appointment because some states accept different documents or have additional requirements.
Proof of identity: birth certificate, passport, or current ID
The DMV needs one document that proves your legal name and date of birth. A birth certificate is the most common choice. It must be an original or a certified copy — ask your vital records office or county clerk if you are not sure whether yours is certified. A photocopy of a birth certificate will not work, even if you have owned it for years.
If you do not have a birth certificate, a U.S. passport or passport card works just as well. A current driver's license or state ID card also counts as proof of identity, even though you are there to renew it. Some states also accept a military ID or a certificate of naturalization if you were born outside the United States.
Do not bring a photocopy, a photo of the document on your phone, or a document that has been altered or damaged. If your birth certificate is worn or hard to read, order a fresh certified copy from your county vital records office — it usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks.
Proof of residence: utility bill, lease, or bank statement
You need to show the DMV where you live right now. Bring two documents that show your current address. The documents must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the easiest choice. A lease or rental agreement works. So does a recent bank statement, mortgage statement, or credit card statement that shows your name and address.
If you have recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring the two newest documents you have, even if they are slightly older than 60 days, plus a document that proves your new address — such as a lease signed within the last month or a utility bill in your name. Some states will also accept a letter from a government agency, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's insurance statement.
Do not bring a printed email or a screenshot. The DMV needs a physical document or an official statement you can hand over. If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, ask them for a letter on their letterhead stating that you live at that address, or bring a lease that has your name on it.
Your Social Security number: card, tax return, or W-2
Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you have lost it or never received one, bring another document showing your full nine-digit Social Security number. A W-2 form, 1099 form, or recent tax return will work. Some states also accept a Social Security statement (which you can request online from the Social Security Administration) or a benefit letter from Social Security, Medicare, or the Veterans Administration.
The DMV needs to verify your number against Social Security Administration records to make sure it is real and matches your name. You cannot bring a document with the number written in by hand — it must be printed or official. If you do not have your Social Security card and cannot find another document with your number on it, you can request a replacement card from your local Social Security office before your DMV appointment.
Your current driver's license or state ID
Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even though you are there to renew it. The DMV staff will scan it or write down the number. If your license or ID has expired, bring it anyway — an expired document still counts as proof of your identity and address history.
If you have never had a driver's license or state ID, or if yours was lost or stolen and you never reported it, you do not need to bring one. Just bring the other documents listed above.
Documents you do not need to bring
You do not need to bring your Social Security statement, a letter from your employer, or a copy of your voter registration. You do not need to bring proof of citizenship unless your state specifically requires it for Real ID — check your state DMV website to be sure. You do not need to bring your passport unless you are using it as your proof of identity.
You do not need to bring a completed Real ID process form. Most DMV offices have forms at the counter, or staff will hand you one when you arrive. Some states let you fill it out online before your appointment, which can speed things up, but it is not required.
What to do if you cannot find a document
If you have lost your birth certificate, order a certified copy from your county vital records office or state health department. Most states let you order online or by mail, and it usually takes one to three weeks. If you need it faster, some offices offer rush processing for an extra fee.
If you do not have a utility bill in your name, ask a family member or roommate if you can use theirs, and bring a signed letter from them saying you live there. If that is not possible, bring whatever address documents you do have — a lease, a bank statement, or a letter from a government agency — and explain the situation to the DMV staff. Many offices will work with you if you are doing your best to provide what they need.
If you have lost your Social Security card and cannot find another document with your number, go to your local Social Security office first. You can get a replacement card in one visit, and it is free. Bring your birth certificate and a photo ID to that appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a photo of my documents on my phone instead of the originals?
No. The DMV needs to see and handle the original documents. A photo on your phone will not work. Bring the physical documents with you.
What if my address on my birth certificate is different from where I live now?
That is fine. Your birth certificate does not need to match your current address — it just needs to prove your legal name and date of birth. Bring two documents showing your current address separately, such as a utility bill and a lease.
Do I need to bring documents for my children if they are getting Real ID too?
Yes. Each person needs their own set of documents: proof of identity, proof of residence, and Social Security number. Children need the same documents as adults, though some states have slightly different rules for minors — check your state DMV website.
Can I bring a notarized copy of my birth certificate instead of a certified copy?
No. A notarized copy is not the same as a certified copy. A certified copy comes from the vital records office and has an official seal. A notarized copy is just a copy that a notary public has witnessed. Bring a certified copy from your county vital records office.
What if I was born outside the United States?
Bring your birth certificate, passport, or certificate of naturalization — whichever you have. If your birth certificate is in another language, some states require an official English translation. Check your state DMV website to see whether you need a translation before your appointment.