Which documents Real ID requires

To get a Real ID, you need to bring documents that prove three things: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. The state DMV will not issue a Real ID without all three. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

You will need one document from each category. A single document cannot count twice — for example, a driver's license counts as proof of identity, not proof of address, even though it has your address printed on it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving identity, one proving your current address, and one proving your Social Security number — the DMV will not accept a Real ID process without all three.
  • A passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license counts as proof of identity; a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement counts as proof of address; and a Social Security card or tax return counts as proof of your SSN.
  • Your address document must be current — most states accept documents dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 12 months.
  • If you do not have a Social Security card, you can bring a W-2, tax return, or Social Security Administration letter instead.
  • Bring your current driver's license or state ID card to your appointment, even though you are replacing it.

Proof of identity documents

The DMV accepts a limited list of documents to prove who you are. A U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state all work. If you do not have any of those, you can bring a certified birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization.

Some states also accept a military ID card or a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe. A few states accept a permanent resident card (green card) or an employment authorization document (EAD). Check your state DMV website to see which documents it takes, because the list is not identical in every state.

One document from this category is enough. You do not need to bring multiple forms of ID.

Proof of address documents

The DMV needs to see that you actually live where you say you do. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work. Insurance documents — homeowner's, renter's, or auto — are also accepted in most states. Some states take bank statements, credit card statements, or pay stubs with your address on them.

The document must show your current address and must be recent. Most states accept documents dated within the last 60 days, but some allow up to 12 months. Check your state's rules before you go, because showing up with a bill from eight months ago might not work.

If you have recently moved and your address has not updated on your bills yet, bring a change-of-address letter from the U.S. Postal Service. This counts as proof of your new address in most states.

Proof of Social Security number

Your Social Security card is the simplest document to bring. If you have it, bring it. If you do not have your card or it is lost, you can bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return that shows your Social Security number. The Social Security Administration will also issue a letter showing your number if you request one in person at a local office.

Some states accept a pay stub with your Social Security number on it. A few states take a bank statement or mortgage document that includes your SSN. The rules vary, so check what your state DMV takes before your appointment.

Your current ID or driver's license

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card to your appointment, even though you are there to replace it. The DMV staff will need to see it to look up your existing record and make sure there are no holds or issues on your account.

If your current license is expired, that is fine — you can still bring it. If you have lost your license and do not have it, tell the DMV when you arrive. They can look up your information in their system without the physical card.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your birth certificate if you have a passport or passport card. You do not need to bring multiple documents from the same category — one proof of identity, one proof of address, and one proof of SSN is all the DMV will ask for.

You do not need to bring original documents for most items. Photocopies of utility bills, leases, and tax returns are usually fine. However, some states require the original birth certificate or passport. Check your state DMV website to see which documents must be originals.

What to do if you are missing a document

If you do not have one of the three required categories, you will need to get it before your appointment. A birth certificate can be ordered from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — this usually takes one to two weeks. A Social Security card can be replaced at your local Social Security office in a few days.

If you have just moved and your address has not updated anywhere yet, the USPS change-of-address letter is your fastest option. You can request one online at USPS.com or in person at your local post office, and it arrives within days.

Do not go to your DMV appointment without all three document categories. The DMV will turn you away and you will have to reschedule. Gathering the documents first saves you a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone or a digital copy of my documents?

Most states require physical copies or originals, not digital photos. Bring printed copies or the original documents themselves. A few states are beginning to accept digital documents through their online portals, but this is not yet standard. Call your state DMV to ask whether digital copies are accepted before your appointment.

What if my address on my driver's license does not match my proof of address document?

The DMV will ask you to explain the difference. If you have recently moved, bring the USPS change-of-address letter along with your new address proof. If the addresses straightforward do not match for another reason, bring documentation showing why — a lease, a mortgage, or a utility bill in your new name at your new address will clear it up.

Do I need to bring documents for my spouse or children?

No. Each person explore for a Real ID must bring their own documents to their own appointment. You cannot bring documents on someone else's behalf. Children need their own birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security proof, just like adults do.

Can I use a document that is in my maiden name?

Yes, as long as you can show the connection between your maiden name and your current name. Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change along with the document in your old name. The DMV will accept both documents together.

What if my Social Security number is not on my birth certificate?

That is normal — birth certificates do not include Social Security numbers. Bring your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2, or a letter from the Social Security Administration instead. Any one of those will work as proof of your SSN.