What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

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 is a federal standard that makes your driver's license or ID card acceptable at airport security and federal buildings. To get one, you bring documents to your state's DMV or equivalent agency. The core documents are the same everywhere — but some states accept more options than others, and a few states have their own variations on what counts as proof of residency.

This guide covers what documents work in most states. Before you go to the DMV, check your state's specific list on its official website, because a few states have stricter rules or accept different documents than the standard list.

Key Takeaways

Every state requires one document proving your identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), one proving where you live (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return).
A passport or passport card counts as proof of identity in every state and is often the easiest single document to bring.
Utility bills, lease agreements, and mortgage statements all work as proof of residency in most states, but the bill or statement must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days.
If you do not have a Social Security card, a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form from the past year will work instead.
You must bring your original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted.

Proof of identity: what documents work

You need one document that shows your name, date of birth, and a photo or physical description. A U.S. passport or passport card is accepted in every state and is often the easiest choice because it covers identity alone. If you have a passport, bring it and you are done with the identity part.

If you do not have a passport, your state will accept one of these: a certified birth certificate (the official copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp, not a photocopy), a current state ID card or driver's license from another state, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card (green card). Some states also accept a certificate of naturalization or U.S. citizenship certificate if you were not born in the United States.

The document must be original or a certified copy. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work, even if you made it yourself at a government office. If you need a certified copy of your birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — you can usually order one by mail or online.

Proof of residency: documents that show your current address

You need one document showing your name and your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days (the exact window varies by state, so check your state's rules). Utility bills are the most common choice — electric, gas, water, phone, or internet bills all work. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works, as long as it shows your current address.

Other documents that work in most states include a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, an insurance policy (auto, home, or renter's), a government check or benefit statement (like unemployment or Social Security), or a vehicle registration. A few states accept a voter registration card or school enrollment letter. Mail from a government agency — such as a tax notice, court document, or jury summons — also counts in most places.

The document must show your full name and street address. A PO box does not count as a residential address. If you recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring the newest document you have and explain the move to the DMV staff — many will accept a recent document with an old address if you can show proof that you have notified the issuer of your move, such as a forwarding address confirmation from the post office.

Proof of Social Security number: what the DMV will accept

You need one document showing your Social Security number. The easiest is your Social Security card itself — bring the original. If you have lost your card or never received one, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return from the past year will work. These documents show your Social Security number and are issued by the government or your employer.

Some states also accept a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid if it shows your number. A few states will accept a bank statement or credit report that displays your Social Security number, though this is less common. Check your state's list to be sure.

If you do not have any of these documents, you can request a Social Security statement from the Social Security Administration online at ssa.gov, or call 1-800-772-1213. The statement shows your number and can take one to two weeks to arrive by mail.

Name changes and documents you may need to bring

If your name has changed since you were born — through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — bring a document proving the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change will work. The document must be an original or certified copy.

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.

What to bring if you are not a U.S. citizen

If you are a permanent resident or have a visa, bring your permanent resident card (green card) or visa as your proof of identity. You will also need proof of your Social Security number and proof of residency, just like any other applicant. Some states require an additional document showing your immigration status — check your state's website to be sure.

If you are not yet a permanent resident, you may not be able to get a Real ID. Some states issue standard driver's licenses to people with work visas or temporary status, but these do not meet the Real ID standard. Contact your state DMV to find out what documents you can use and what type of ID you are able to receive.

Bringing documents to the DMV: originals and certified copies

The DMV will not accept photocopies of most documents. You must bring the original document or a certified copy. A certified copy is an official copy made by the government agency that issued the original — it has a raised seal, embossed stamp, or official signature. You can usually order a certified copy by mail or online from the agency that issued the document.

Some documents, like utility bills or bank statements, can be originals that you already have at home. Others, like birth certificates, must be certified copies. If you are unsure whether a photocopy will work, call your state DMV before you go — staff can tell you whether a particular document needs to be certified.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged on the way to the DMV. The staff will examine them, may make copies for your file, and will return the originals to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a utility bill if it is in my spouse's name but shows our address?

Most states will not accept a bill in someone else's name, even if you live at that address. Bring a document that shows your name and your current address. If all your bills are in your spouse's name, ask about bringing a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement instead — these are more likely to be in your name.

What if my birth certificate does not have a raised seal?

A birth certificate without a raised seal is usually not certified and will not work. Contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born and order a certified copy. The office can tell you the cost and how long it will take to arrive.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a W-2?

No. A W-2, 1099, or tax return from the past year is enough proof of your Social Security number. You do not need to bring the card itself. If you have the card, bringing it is fine, but it is not required.

Can I use a cell phone bill as proof of residency?

Yes, in most states. A cell phone bill counts as a utility bill and works as proof of residency as long as it shows your name, your current address, and is dated within the last 60 to 90 days. Check your state's specific rules to be sure.

What if I do not have a birth certificate and cannot get one?

Contact your state DMV and explain your situation. Some states have alternative documents or processes for people who cannot obtain a birth certificate — for example, a military ID or passport may be enough. The DMV staff can tell you what options are available to you.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.