The documents Missouri requires before you can get a license

Missouri requires you to bring six categories of documents to the Department of Revenue office: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of Missouri residency, proof of legal presence, your current license or ID (if you have one), and a completed process form. You cannot get a license without all six, so gathering them before you go saves a trip back home.

The state accepts multiple documents in each category, so you likely already have what you need. A passport alone covers identity, Social Security, and legal presence. A birth certificate plus a utility bill covers identity and residency. The key is bringing originals or certified copies — photocopies do not work, and the Department of Revenue will turn you away if a document is not acceptable.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies of documents proving identity, Social Security number, Missouri residency, and legal presence; photocopies are not accepted.
  • A U.S. passport covers three requirements at once (identity, Social Security, and legal presence), so if you have one, bring it.
  • For residency, Missouri accepts utility bills, lease agreements, bank statements, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • You need to complete form DL 43 (the process) before you arrive, though you can also fill it out at the office if you prefer.
  • Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one, even if it is expired or from another state.

Proof of identity documents Missouri accepts

Missouri will accept a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a passport card, or a state ID from another state as proof of identity. If you use a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with the state seal — a photocopy or a hospital birth certificate does not count. The document must show your full legal name and date of birth.

If you were born outside the United States, a foreign passport works if it is still valid. You can also use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or a Certificate of Naturalization. Bring the original document; the Department of Revenue will not accept a photocopy or a digital image on your phone.

Proof of Social Security number

You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your full Social Security number. If you bring a tax return, it must be an original or certified copy. A photograph of your Social Security card is not acceptable.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to contact the Social Security Administration to request one before you visit the Department of Revenue. The state cannot issue a driver's license without it.

Proof of Missouri residency

Missouri requires a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit union statement, or government mail (such as a tax notice or court document) all work. The document must show your name and your Missouri address.

If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a lease agreement is usually the fastest option. If you are staying with someone else, ask them for a utility bill or mortgage statement in their name; the Department of Revenue will accept it as long as it shows your current address and is dated within 60 days.

Proof of legal presence in the United States

A U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID from another state all prove legal presence. If you were born outside the U.S., a valid foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship work. If you have a work visa or other immigration document, bring it along with your passport.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, Missouri will issue you a license valid only while your immigration status is current. You will need to renew it when your visa or other document expires.

Your current license or ID and the process form

Bring your current Missouri driver's license or state ID if you have one, even if it is expired. If you have a license from another state, bring that instead. If you do not have any license or ID, you do not need to bring anything for this step.

Complete form DL 43 (the Missouri Driver License/Identification Card process) before you arrive at the Department of Revenue office. You can read it from the Missouri Secretary of State website or fill it out on paper at the office. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and other basic information. Bring it completed and signed.

What to do if you do not have a document

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can request one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks. If you do not have a Social Security card, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.

If you cannot get a document in time, call your local Department of Revenue office before you go. Some offices have different procedures or can tell you which alternative documents might work in your situation. Do not assume a document will not work — ask first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents on my phone?

No. Missouri requires original documents or certified copies. Digital images, screenshots, and photocopies are not accepted. Bring the physical documents with you to the Department of Revenue office.

What if my birth certificate does not have my current legal name?

If you have changed your name through marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, bring both your birth certificate and a document showing the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order). The Department of Revenue will use both to verify your identity.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a tax return instead?

Either works. A W-2, 1099, or tax return showing your full Social Security number is acceptable. You do not have to bring your actual Social Security card if you have another document that shows the number.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must appear in person at the Department of Revenue office with your documents. You will also need to take a written test and a vision test, which only you can do.

What if my residency document is older than 60 days?

Missouri will not accept it. You will need a newer document showing your current address. If you cannot get one, ask the Department of Revenue office what alternatives they might accept in your situation.