The documents you need depend on which state you're in, but every Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number

Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. To get one, you'll bring documents to your state's DMV or equivalent agency. The exact documents vary by state, but they fall into three categories: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. This guide walks you through what each category means and what documents typically work.

You cannot get a Real ID online or by mail in most states. You must visit your DMV in person, bring your documents, and have them verified on the spot. Some states let you renew a Real ID by mail if you already have one, but your first Real ID always requires a visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Every Real ID requires one document proving your identity, one proving where you live, and one showing your Social Security number — the exact documents vary by state.
  • A passport, passport card, or birth certificate counts as identity proof in most states, but some states accept only certain documents.
  • A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement usually proves residency, but it must show your name and current address.
  • Your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return can prove your Social Security number, depending on your state's rules.
  • You must visit your DMV in person with original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

Identity documents: what counts as proof of who you are

You need one document that proves your legal name and date of birth. A U.S. passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate works in every state. Some states also accept a foreign passport if you are a permanent resident, or a Trusted Traveler card like a NEXUS or SENTRI card.

Your current driver's license or state ID card does not count as proof of identity for a Real ID, even if it has your photo on it. The DMV needs a document issued by a different agency to verify who you are. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, ask your state DMV which documents they accept — some states have longer lists that include documents like a naturalization certificate, adoption decree, or military discharge papers.

The document must be an original or a certified copy. A photocopy, even a notarized one, will not work. If your birth certificate is from another country, it must be a certified copy with an official English translation.

Residency documents: what proves where you live

You need one document showing your name and your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement usually works. The document must be recent — most states accept documents dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though this varies. Call your state DMV to confirm the time window.

Other documents that often count include a property tax bill, homeowner's insurance policy, bank or credit card statement, or a letter from your employer with your name and address. Some states accept a government benefit statement like an unemployment or Social Security letter. A few states accept a cell phone bill or internet bill if it shows your name and address.

Your lease or mortgage must be an original or certified copy. A photocopy will not work. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, some states let you bring a notarized letter from the bill holder saying you live there, plus a second document with your name on it — but rules vary widely. Contact your DMV before you visit.

Social Security documents: what proves your number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. Your Social Security card itself is the most straightforward option. If you do not have your card, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return showing your number works in most states. Some states also accept a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or the Veterans Administration.

The document must be an original or certified copy. A photocopy of your Social Security card will not work, even if it is notarized. If you have lost your card and do not have a W-2 or tax return, you can order a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before you visit the DMV — this usually takes one to two weeks.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a Real ID. You can still get a state ID card that is not Real ID compliant, which works for most purposes but not for federal buildings or domestic flights after the Real ID important date in your state.

What to bring: original documents or certified copies only

The DMV will not accept photocopies, faxes, or digital images of your documents, even if they are notarized. You must bring originals or certified copies issued by the agency that created them. A certified copy has an official seal or stamp and comes directly from the issuing agency — your local vital records office for a birth certificate, your bank for a bank statement, or your employer for a W-2.

If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation. Some DMVs have translators on staff, but do not count on it — bring the translation with you.

Bring all three categories of documents even if you think one document might cover two categories. A utility bill shows residency but not identity. A passport shows identity but not residency. The DMV needs to see all three types to issue a Real ID.

How documents differ by state

Every state accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, and certified birth certificate as identity proof. Every state accepts a utility bill or lease as residency proof. Every state accepts a Social Security card as proof of your number. Beyond these basics, the rules vary.

Some states have shorter lists and accept fewer documents. Others have longer lists that include things like a military ID, tribal ID, or notarized affidavit. A few states have different rules for different types of applicants — for example, some accept different documents for people under 18 than for adults. The only way to know what your state accepts is to check your state DMV's website or call them directly. Bring a list of the documents you plan to bring and ask if they will work before you make the trip.

What happens if you do not have the right documents

If you arrive at the DMV without the documents your state requires, you will not be able to get a Real ID that day. The DMV will tell you what you are missing and send you home. You will have to return another time with the correct documents.

If you do not have a birth certificate or passport, you can order one before your DMV visit. A certified birth certificate from your state vital records office usually takes one to three weeks. A U.S. passport takes four to six weeks through the mail, or one to two weeks if you explore in person at a passport acceptance facility and pay for expedited processing. Plan ahead so you have the documents before your DMV appointment.

If you cannot get the documents your state requires, ask the DMV whether you can get a state ID card that is not Real ID compliant instead. You can use a non-Real ID card for most purposes, including driving and entering state buildings. It will not work for federal buildings or domestic flights after your state's Real ID important date, but it is better than having no ID at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate if it is notarized?

No. The DMV requires an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued directly by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. A notarized photocopy is not accepted. If you need a certified copy, contact your state's vital records office or the equivalent agency in the country where you were born.

What if my utility bill is in my roommate's name?

Most states will not accept a bill in someone else's name as proof of your residency. Some states let you bring a notarized letter from your roommate saying you live there, plus a second document with your name on it — like a bank statement or letter from your employer. Call your DMV before your visit to ask what they will accept in your situation.

Do I need to bring my current driver's license to get a Real ID?

You do not need to bring your current license, but it can be helpful. If you are renewing a license and your name or address has not changed, the DMV already has some of your information on file. Bring your current license anyway so the DMV can update your record. If you are getting an ID for the first time, you do not need a current license.

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

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies in physical form. Digital images, screenshots, or PDF files on your phone will not work. Bring paper documents with you to your DMV visit.

What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have a W-2?

You can order a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration online or by visiting a local Social Security office. This usually takes one to two weeks. You can also contact the Social Security Administration to request a benefit statement or earnings record, which shows your number and can count as proof. Plan ahead so you have one of these documents before your DMV visit.