The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number

Real ID requires you to bring specific documents to your DMV or state licensing office. You cannot get a Real ID with just your current driver's license — you need to prove who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

Most people can gather what they need in a day or two. The documents themselves are free — you may already have them at home. If you need to order replacements (like a birth certificate), that can take weeks, so plan ahead if your Real ID appointment is coming up soon.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires a document proving your identity, a document proving where you live, and proof of your Social Security number — usually your Social Security card or tax return.
  • A birth certificate or passport counts as identity proof in all states, but some states also accept other documents like a naturalization certificate or military discharge papers.
  • Utility bills, lease agreements, and mortgage statements all work as proof of residency, as long as they show your current address and are dated within the last 60 days or so.
  • If you were born outside the United States, you will need to bring your passport, visa, or naturalization certificate along with your other documents.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work, and the DMV staff will tell you when ready if a document cannot be accepted.

Identity documents that work in every state

A U.S. birth certificate is the most common choice. It must be an official copy — the kind with a raised seal or security features — not a photocopy or a hospital birth record. You can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually takes one to three weeks and costs between $10 and $30.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works in every state and proves both identity and citizenship. If you already have one, bring it. A passport book (the full-size booklet) and a passport card (the wallet-sized version) are equally acceptable.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or naturalization certificate. These documents prove both your identity and your legal status to be in the country.

Some states also accept a military discharge paper (DD Form 214), a Native American tribal document, or a consular report of birth abroad. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list for your location.

Proof of residency: what your state will accept

You need a document showing your current address. Most states want something dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. The document must show your full name and street address — a P.O. box does not count.

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the easiest option for most people. Bring the original or a printed copy from your online account. A lease agreement or mortgage statement works just as well. If you rent and do not have a lease, a signed letter from your landlord on their letterhead, stating your name and address, can work — ask your DMV first.

Other documents that count include a property tax statement, homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, bank or credit card statement, paycheck stub, or government benefit statement (like unemployment or Social Security). Some states accept a vehicle registration or insurance card if it shows your current address.

If you just moved and your documents still show an old address, you may be able to bring two older documents plus a signed statement explaining the move. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask what they will accept in your situation.

Proof of your Social Security number

The easiest way is to bring your Social Security card. If you have lost it or never received one, bring a document that shows your number. A W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax return from the past year works. A Social Security statement (which you can request online at ssa.gov) also counts.

Some states will accept a bank statement or credit card statement that displays your Social Security number, though this is less common. If you do not have any of these documents, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment — that usually takes one to two weeks.

What to bring if you were born outside the United States

In addition to your identity document (passport, visa, or naturalization certificate), bring your birth certificate from your country of origin if you have it. Some states require it; others do not. Check your state's requirements first.

If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Permanent Resident Card). If you are on a work visa, bring your employment authorization document (EAD) or visa stamp. If you are a naturalized citizen, bring your naturalization certificate. These documents prove both who you are and your legal right to be in the United States.

Name changes and other complications

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — bring the document that proves the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order will do. The DMV needs to see that the name on your birth certificate matches the name you are using now, or that you have a legal document explaining the difference.

If you have changed your name multiple times, bring documents for each change in order. For example, if you were born under one name, married and changed it, then divorced and changed it again, bring the birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce decree.

Documents you cannot use

Photocopies, scans, and faxes do not work — you must bring originals or certified copies. A certified copy is a photocopy stamped and signed by the issuing office, usually available for a small fee. Hospital birth records, school IDs, and library cards are not accepted as identity proof. Social media accounts, email addresses, and screenshots do not count as proof of anything.

If a document is damaged, faded, or missing information, the DMV may reject it. If you are unsure whether a document will work, call your state's DMV before your appointment. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip and a delayed Real ID.

How to order documents you do not have

If you need a birth certificate, go to the vital records office website for the state or county where you were born. Most states let you order online and will mail the certificate to you. Standard processing takes one to three weeks; expedited options cost more but arrive faster.

If you need a replacement Social Security card, visit ssa.gov or go to your local Social Security office. You can explore online in some states. Bring your birth certificate and a photo ID (even an expired one works). Processing usually takes one to two weeks.

If you need a replacement passport, visit the State Department's website or go to a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office or courthouse). Processing times vary widely depending on demand, so check the current timeline before you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original or a certified copy — a photocopy stamped and signed by the vital records office that issued it. A certified copy costs a few dollars and takes a few days to arrive by mail. Call the vital records office in the state where you were born to order one.

What if my name on my documents does not match my current name?

Bring the document that explains the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use that to verify the name change is legal. If you have changed your name multiple times, bring documents for each change in the order they happened.

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

Either one works. A Social Security card is fastest, but a W-2, 1099, or tax return from the past year is equally acceptable. If you do not have your card and cannot find a tax document, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment.

Can I use a bank statement as proof of residency if it is more than 60 days old?

Most states say no, but some allow up to 90 days. Check your state's DMV website for the exact rule. If your statement is older than that, bring a newer one or use a different document like a utility bill or lease agreement.

What if I just moved and my documents still show my old address?

Call your DMV and explain the situation. Many states will let you bring two documents with your old address plus a signed statement or lease showing your new address. Some accept a utility bill in your name at the new address even if it is less than 60 days old. Ask what your state requires before your appointment.