Bring These Documents to Pass Your Permit Test

You need six things at the DMV: proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a completed process form, payment, and proof you passed the written test (if your state requires you to pass it before the appointment). The exact documents vary by state, but the categories stay the same. Your state's DMV website lists what counts as proof of identity and proof of residency in your state — do not guess, because showing up with the wrong document wastes your appointment and you will have to return.

Most states let you bring a passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID as proof of identity. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some states accept a pay stub or tax return instead. Bring the originals, not copies, unless the DMV website specifically says copies are acceptable.

Key Takeaways

  • Check your state's DMV website before you go, because the list of acceptable documents differs by state and changes occasionally.
  • Bring originals of identity and residency documents unless your state's DMV explicitly says copies are acceptable.
  • Your residency document must show your current address and usually must be dated within the last 60 days.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation or ask the DMV what to bring instead.
  • Arrive early and bring more than one form of ID if you have it, in case one is rejected.

Proof of Identity: What the DMV Accepts

A valid passport or passport card is accepted in every state. A birth certificate works in most states, though some require it to be certified (an official copy with a seal from the vital records office, not a photocopy). A state ID, military ID, or tribal ID also counts. Some states accept a driver's license from another state if it is still valid.

If your identity document does not have your photo on it — like a birth certificate — the DMV will usually ask for a second form of ID with a photo. A school ID, work ID, or passport card can serve this purpose. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list, because a few states have different rules.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your passport and visa or work permit. Some states also accept a green card or employment authorization document (EAD). Bring the original, not a copy.

Proof of Residency: Documents That Show Your Address

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days is the most common proof of residency. A lease or mortgage statement works too. A bank or credit card statement, pay stub, or tax return also counts in most states. The document must show your name and your current address.

If you recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring a lease or rental agreement for your new place along with one document showing the old address. Some states will accept a letter from a landlord or property manager on official letterhead confirming you live there. Call your DMV ahead of time if you are unsure whether your documents will work.

Post office mail forwarding notices do not count as proof of residency. Neither do printed bank statements you read from online banking — bring the official statement mailed to you, or ask your bank for a certified copy.

Your Social Security Number or ITIN

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation (the letter from the IRS that assigned your ITIN, or a tax return showing it). Some states let you explore for a permit without a Social Security number, but the process is slower and you may need to bring additional documents.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration website or call 1-800-772-1213. The replacement takes about two weeks. If you need your permit sooner, call your DMV to ask whether you can bring a tax return or other document showing your number instead.

The process Form and Payment

Most states let you read and fill out the permit process before you go to the DMV. Doing this saves time and reduces errors. Go to your state's DMV website, find the learner's permit or instruction permit process, and print it. Fill it out completely and bring it with you. If you do not fill it out ahead of time, you can do it at the DMV, but you will wait longer.

Bring payment for the permit fee. The cost varies by state — it ranges from about $10 to $50 for a learner's permit. Most DMVs accept cash, debit card, and credit card. A few accept checks. Call ahead or check the website if you are unsure what payment methods your local office takes.

Proof You Passed the Written Test (If Required)

Some states require you to pass the written knowledge test before your permit appointment. Others let you take the test at the DMV during your appointment. Check your state's DMV website to find out which applies to you.

If you must pass the test before your appointment, you may be able to take it online through your state's DMV website, at a third-party testing center, or at the DMV itself on a different day. Once you pass, you will receive a score sheet or confirmation number. Bring this to your permit appointment. If you lose it, call the DMV and ask them to look up your test score by name and date of birth.

What to Do If You Are Missing a Document

If you realize before your appointment that you do not have one of the required documents, call your DMV and explain what you are missing. Some offices can tell you what alternative documents might work. For example, if you do not have a utility bill, they might accept a phone bill or insurance statement instead.

If you show up without a required document, the DMV will not issue your permit that day. You will have to reschedule. Bring the missing document to your next appointment. Some states let you reschedule online; others require you to call or visit in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of the original?

Most states require the original or a certified copy (one with an official seal from the vital records office). A regular photocopy will not work. If you only have a photocopy, contact your state's vital records office to order a certified copy. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $25.

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

Bring a document showing your current address, such as a lease, utility bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The DMV will use this to update your address. You do not need to update your old ID first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a copy?

Bring the original card. If you have lost it, bring a tax return, W-2, or the letter from the Social Security Administration that assigned your number. Copies of the card itself are usually not accepted.

Can I bring documents in another language?

Bring the original document and an official English translation if the document is not in English. Some DMVs have translators on staff, but do not count on it. Call your local DMV ahead of time to ask whether they can translate documents for you.

What if I do not have proof of residency because I just moved?

Bring your lease or rental agreement for your new place. If you do not have a lease, bring a letter from your landlord or property manager on official letterhead confirming you live there and the move-in date. Some states also accept a utility bill in the process of being transferred to your name.