The documents Real ID requires depend on what you're proving

Real ID requires you to bring documents that prove three things: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. You do not need all of these at once — you bring originals or certified copies to your DMV appointment, and the DMV keeps copies on file. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but federal law sets the baseline, so most states follow the same list.

You will need at least one document from each of three categories: identity, residency, and Social Security number. Some documents count for more than one category, which can reduce how many papers you bring. For example, a passport counts as both identity and citizenship proof, so it covers more ground than a driver's license alone.

Key Takeaways

  • You need documents proving identity, current address, and Social Security number — most people bring three separate documents, though some documents cover two categories.
  • A passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state counts as your identity document and covers citizenship at the same time.
  • For proof of address, a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works in most states.
  • Your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return can prove your number, but if you do not have the card itself, bring a document with your number printed on it.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and photos of documents are not accepted.

Identity documents the DMV will accept

Your primary identity document should be one of these: a current or expired passport, a passport card, an enhanced driver's license from another state, a military ID, a permanent resident card (green card), or a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe. If you have a passport or passport card, bring that — it proves both identity and U.S. citizenship, so you will not need a separate citizenship document.

If you do not have a passport, a current or recently expired driver's license or state ID from another state works. Some states also accept a military dependent ID or a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential. The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo. Expired documents are usually fine as long as they expired within the last five years, though some states have stricter rules — call your DMV to confirm before you go.

If you were born outside the U.S., you will also need a separate document proving citizenship or lawful permanent residency. A passport covers this. If you do not have one, bring a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or a permanent resident card. Birth certificates must be certified copies, not photocopies.

Proof of current address

The DMV needs to see that you live where you say you do. A document dated within the last 60 days works — this is usually a utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. Some states also accept insurance documents, voter registration cards, or government mail.

The document must show your name and current address. If you recently moved and do not have a bill in your new name yet, bring a lease or mortgage statement instead — those often arrive before utilities are set up. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, some states allow a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a document showing your relationship (like a marriage certificate or lease). Check your state's DMV website for the exact rules, because this varies.

If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, some states have workarounds — contact your DMV directly to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

Social Security number proof

You need to show your Social Security number. The easiest way is to bring your Social Security card itself. If you do not have the card, bring a document that shows your number: a W-2, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement. The document must be an original or certified copy.

If you have never had a Social Security number and are not a U.S. citizen, you do not need one for Real ID — bring your permanent resident card or visa instead. If you have lost your Social Security card and cannot find another document with your number, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment, though this takes time. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to start the process.

What to bring if you have changed your name

If your name on your identity document does not match the name on your address proof, bring a document showing the legal name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers all work. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy will not be accepted.

If you changed your name but have not updated your driver's license or ID yet, bring both the old document and the name-change document. The DMV will use both to verify that you are the same person.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring proof of citizenship if your identity document already proves it — a passport or passport card covers this. You do not need a birth certificate if you have a passport. You do not need to bring your original Social Security card if you have another document showing your number.

You also do not need to bring documents proving your immigration status unless you are a permanent resident or visa holder — in that case, bring your green card or visa. If you are a U.S. citizen, your passport or birth certificate is enough.

How to prepare your documents before you go

Make a checklist before your appointment: one identity document, one address proof dated within 60 days, and one Social Security number proof. If your name has changed, add the name-change document. Bring originals or certified copies — the DMV will not accept photocopies, photos of documents, or digital scans, even if they are notarized.

If a document is worn, faded, or hard to read, bring it anyway — the DMV staff will tell you if it is too damaged to use. If you are unsure whether a document will work, call your state DMV before your appointment. Most DMVs have a phone line or online chat where you can ask specific questions about your documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired document?

An expired passport, passport card, or driver's license usually works if it expired within the last five years. Address documents must be dated within 60 days, so they cannot be expired. Social Security documents do not expire, so an old W-2 or tax return is fine. Check your state DMV website for exact rules on how old documents can be.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

Bring any document showing your Social Security number: a W-2, tax return, pay stub, or bank statement. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement card before your DMV appointment. You cannot get Real ID without proof of your number.

Do I need to bring my birth certificate?

Only if you do not have a passport and need to prove U.S. citizenship. If your identity document is a passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state, you do not need a birth certificate. If your identity document is a regular driver's license, bring a birth certificate or other citizenship proof.

Can I use a utility bill in someone else's name?

Most states allow this if you live with that person and can prove your relationship — bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a document showing you live together, like a lease or marriage certificate. Some states have different rules, so call your DMV first to confirm what they will accept.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring your current ID and a document proving your new address dated within 60 days. The DMV will update your address during your Real ID appointment. You do not need a separate name-change document unless your name itself has changed.