The documents you need depend on which type of license you're getting

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof that you are who you say you are — but the exact documents that satisfy each requirement vary by state. A passport works as identity in most places; a utility bill works as residency in most places. Some states accept a birth certificate as identity; others do not. Before you gather anything, check your state's DMV website for the specific list, because showing up with the wrong documents wastes a trip.

The documents fall into three categories: identity, residency, and Social Security number verification. You will also need to pass a written test and a driving test (unless you already hold a valid license from another state). Some people need additional documents — for instance, if you are under 18, if you are not a U.S. citizen, or if you have a suspended or revoked license.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, but which documents satisfy each requirement varies by state.
  • A passport, birth certificate, or state ID card usually works for identity; a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement usually works for residency.
  • You will need to bring your original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted.
  • If you are under 18, not a U.S. citizen, or have a suspended license, you will need extra documents specific to your situation.
  • Your state DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts; calling ahead or checking online before your appointment prevents wasted trips.

Documents that prove your identity

Your state will accept one or more of these as proof of identity. The most common are a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate, a state ID card, a military ID, or a tribal ID. Some states also accept a foreign passport if you are not yet a U.S. citizen. A few states accept a school ID or employee ID if you bring it with another document.

The document must be original or a certified copy — a photocopy does not count. If your birth certificate is a photocopy, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. This usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail, though many states now offer expedited online ordering. If you have a passport, bring that instead — it is faster and accepted everywhere.

If you were born outside the United States and do not yet have a U.S. passport, bring your foreign birth certificate and your green card or visa. Some states require a certified English translation of a foreign birth certificate; check your state's rules before you order one.

Documents that prove where you live

Your state needs proof that you live at the address you put on your license process. A current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement usually works. The document must show your name and your current address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days — some states accept up to 90 days.

If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a lease signed by you and your landlord works. If you live with family or a roommate and the utility bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them stating that you live there, plus the utility bill. Some states accept a notarized affidavit instead if you cannot get a letter.

If you are homeless or living in temporary housing, ask your DMV what documents they accept — some allow a shelter letter or a social services document that shows your current address or lack of one. A few states issue licenses without a fixed address.

Proof of your Social Security number

You must provide your Social Security number when you explore. Most states accept your Social Security card itself, but some do not — they want a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. Check your state's list before you explore, because if you bring the wrong document, you will have to come back.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a standard driver's license in any state. You may be able to get an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS if you are not a U.S. citizen and do not may have access to for a Social Security number. Some states accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number for licensing purposes; others do not. Contact your state DMV to ask whether an ITIN works.

Extra documents if you are under 18

If you are a minor, your state may require a parent or guardian to sign your process or to be present when you explore. Some states require written consent on a form they provide; others require a parent to appear in person. A few states require both. Check your state's rules, because explore without the required parental involvement will be denied.

You will also need to bring proof of your parent's or guardian's identity — usually a driver's license or passport. Some states require proof that the adult is your parent or guardian, such as a birth certificate showing their name or a custody order if applicable.

Extra documents if you are not a U.S. citizen

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card and your passport or foreign birth certificate. If you are in the U.S. on a visa, bring your passport, your visa, and your I-94 arrival/departure record (you can print this from the CBP website). If you have a work permit (EAD card), bring that as well.

Some states issue standard driver's licenses to non-citizens; others issue a license marked "Not for Federal Purposes" or a similar restriction. A few states require proof of a Social Security number or ITIN before they will issue any license to a non-citizen. Your state DMV website will tell you which documents you need and what type of license you will receive.

Extra documents if your license was suspended or revoked

If you are reapplying after a suspension or revocation, you will need proof that the suspension or revocation has ended. This is usually a letter from your state DMV or a court document showing that your driving privileges have been restored. Some states require an SR-22 form (a certificate of financial responsibility) before they will reinstate your license — your insurance company provides this, and you will need to bring the original or a copy.

If your suspension was due to unpaid fines or child support, you may also need proof of payment or a payment plan agreement. If it was due to a medical condition, you may need a doctor's letter stating that the condition no longer prevents you from driving safely. Check your DMV's reinstatement requirements before you go in.

What to bring on the day of your appointment

Bring all original documents or certified copies — do not bring photocopies. Bring your Social Security card or the alternative document your state accepts. Bring two forms of ID if your state requires it. Bring proof of residency dated within the last 60 to 90 days. If you are under 18, bring your parent or guardian and any consent forms your state requires. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your visa or green card and passport.

Bring your current driver's license if you have one, even if it is expired or suspended — it speeds up the process. Bring your glasses or contacts if you need them to see the eye chart. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms by hand. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, because many DMVs process people in order and do not hold spots for late arrivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You need an original or a certified copy from the vital records office. A certified copy has a raised seal or official stamp and costs $10 to $25. You can order one online or by mail from the county or state where you were born, and it usually arrives in one to two weeks.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

Bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, pay stub, or a letter from the Social Security Administration instead — but check your state's list first, because not all states accept all of these. If you do not have a Social Security number at all, you cannot get a standard license; ask your DMV whether an ITIN works in your state.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?

You must bring originals or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted. If a document is a certified copy, it will have an official seal or stamp from the issuing agency.

What if I just moved and do not have a utility bill yet?

A signed lease or rental agreement with your name and current address works. If the utility bill is in a roommate's or family member's name, bring a signed letter from them stating you live there, plus their utility bill. Some states accept a notarized affidavit instead.

Do I need my parent present if I am under 18?

It depends on your state. Some require a parent to sign a consent form; others require a parent to appear in person; some require both. Check your state DMV website or call ahead to find out what your state requires before you schedule your appointment.