Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number

Your Real ID appointment requires three categories of documents: one that proves who you are, one that proves where you live, and your Social Security number in some form. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You will not be turned away for bringing too much — bring everything listed below that you have, and the staff will use what they need.

The appointment itself is short if you have the right documents. Without them, you will be asked to reschedule. Bring originals, not copies, unless the state's website specifically says copies are acceptable. Most states do not accept photographs of documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or driver's license from another state.
  • Proof of residency means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current address — usually dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your Social Security number can be proven with your Social Security card, W-2, tax return, or 1099 form.
  • Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it is expired, because the staff will collect it when they issue your Real ID.
  • If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your identity documents.

Identity documents that work at a Real ID appointment

You need one original document from this list. A passport (U.S. or foreign) is the strongest proof and is accepted everywhere. A birth certificate issued by a state or U.S. territory works in all states, but it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or security features — a photocopy or hospital birth certificate will not be accepted.

A driver's license or state ID card from another state is accepted if it is still valid or expired no more than a few years ago (the exact window varies by state). A passport card (the wallet-sized version) counts as identity proof. Some states also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card), but check your state's list first because not all do.

Documents that do not work for identity include school IDs, work IDs, credit cards, and Social Security cards. A Social Security card proves your number, not your identity.

Proof of residency: what shows your current address

You need one document showing your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) is the most common and is accepted everywhere. A lease or rental agreement works if it shows your name and current address. A mortgage statement or property tax bill serves the same purpose for homeowners.

Government mail counts: a tax return, W-2, voter registration card, vehicle registration, or insurance policy with your address will work. Most states require the document to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. Check your state's DMV website for the exact window.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and cell phone bills are sometimes accepted but not everywhere — they are riskier choices. Bring a utility bill or government document if you have one. A lease or mortgage statement is your backup if you do not have a recent utility bill.

Proof of your Social Security number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. Your Social Security card itself is the simplest proof. If you do not have it, bring a W-2, 1099 form, or recent tax return — all show your number and are accepted everywhere.

Some states also accept a pay stub or bank statement that displays your Social Security number, but these are less reliable across states. If you have a Social Security card, bring that. If not, a tax document is your safest choice.

You cannot prove your Social Security number with a letter from the Social Security Administration or a printout from your online account. Bring a physical document.

Name change documents if your name is different now

If your name on your identity document does not match the name on your proof of residency, or if your name has changed since you were born, bring the document that explains the change. A marriage certificate is the most common. A divorce decree or court order changing your name also works.

These documents must be originals or certified copies. A photocopy will not be accepted. If you were adopted, bring your adoption decree. If you have a court order from a name-change petition, bring that.

The staff will not ask why your names do not match — they will straightforward need to see the document that connects them. Bring it even if you think it might not be necessary.

Your current driver's license or state ID card

Bring the ID you currently have, even if it is expired. The DMV staff will take it from you when they issue your Real ID. If you do not have a current ID, you do not need to bring one — your identity documents will be enough.

If your current ID is suspended or revoked, tell the staff when you arrive. Some states will still issue a Real ID; others will not. Knowing this before you go saves a wasted trip.

What not to bring and common mistakes

Do not bring photocopies unless your state's website says copies are acceptable for a specific document — most states do not. Do not bring photographs of documents taken on your phone. Do not bring notarized copies; the DMV wants originals or certified copies from the issuing agency.

Do not assume a document works because it has your name and address on it. Bring documents from the list above. If you are unsure whether something counts, check your state's DMV website or call the office before your appointment — a five-minute call is faster than a wasted trip.

Do not bring your children's documents or anyone else's documents. Bring only your own. Do not bring original documents you cannot afford to lose — if a document is irreplaceable, ask the DMV whether they need the original or will accept a certified copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photo of my documents instead of the originals?

No. Most states require originals or certified copies. A photograph on your phone will not be accepted. If you cannot bring an original, call your DMV office and ask whether a certified copy from the issuing agency is acceptable for that specific document.

What if my proof of residency is older than 60 days?

It will likely not be accepted. Most states require residency documents dated within 60 days of your appointment. If your utility bill or lease is older, bring a newer one or call the DMV to ask whether they will make an exception. Some offices are flexible; others are not.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a W-2?

No. A W-2, tax return, or 1099 form proves your Social Security number just as well as the card itself. Bring whichever you have. If you have the card, it is simpler, but any of these documents will work.

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

Bring both documents plus the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order that explains the name change. The staff will see that your name changed legally and will process your Real ID under your current name.

Can I bring documents for someone else if I am getting their Real ID?

No. Each person must bring their own documents to their own appointment. You cannot bring documents on behalf of another adult. A parent or guardian can bring documents for a minor, but the minor must also be present.