The documents you need depend on which category of proof you're bringing

Real ID requires you to prove four things: your identity, your date of birth, your Social Security number, and your current address. The DMV will not accept just any document for each category — they have a specific list of what counts, and the document must be an original or certified copy, not a photocopy or digital image on your phone.

You do not need to bring every document listed below. You need one document from the identity category, one from the date of birth category, one from the Social Security category, and one from the address category. Some documents count for more than one category, which can reduce how many papers you carry in.

The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, so check your state DMV website before you go. However, the categories and types of documents are consistent across all states that issue Real ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of documents — photocopies and photos on your phone will not be accepted.
  • You need proof in four categories: identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address; one document can sometimes cover two categories.
  • A passport or passport card covers identity and date of birth in a single document, reducing the number of papers you need to bring.
  • Your current address must match what is on file with the DMV, or you must bring a document showing your new address before you renew.
  • Some documents require notarization or certification; check your state's list before gathering papers to avoid a wasted trip.

Identity documents that the DMV will accept

A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest identity document and covers both identity and date of birth. If you have one, bring it — it simplifies the process. A passport does not expire for Real ID purposes; the DMV will accept an expired passport as proof of identity.

A certified birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born counts as identity proof in most states. It must be a certified copy with the state seal, not a photocopy or a copy you printed from an online genealogy site. If you were born outside the United States, a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) works.

A driver's license or ID card from another state counts as identity proof if it is current or expired less than one year. If it is older than that, most states will not accept it. A military ID or military dependent ID also works. Some states accept a tribal ID card if it is issued by a federally recognized tribe and includes a photo and signature.

Date of birth documents

If your identity document already shows your date of birth — such as a passport, birth certificate, or driver's license from another state — you do not need a separate date of birth document. If it does not, you must bring one.

A certified birth certificate is the standard document for date of birth. A Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card also shows date of birth. Some states accept a passport card (the wallet-sized version) even if you do not have a full passport. A few states accept a medical record or school record if it includes your date of birth and is issued by a government agency or school, though these are less common.

Religious records — such as a baptism certificate — are accepted in some states but not others. Check your state DMV website to see whether yours accepts them before you bring one.

Social Security number documents

You must bring an original or certified copy of a document showing your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the most straightforward option. If you have lost your card or never received one, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment, though this adds time to your process.

A W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document showing your Social Security number counts in all states. These must be originals or certified copies; a photocopy is not accepted. A pay stub from your employer showing your full Social Security number also works. Some states accept a bank statement or insurance policy if your Social Security number appears on it.

If you do not have your Social Security card and cannot produce a tax document or pay stub, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card. This typically takes one to two weeks. Do not attempt to go to the DMV without proof of your Social Security number — you will be turned away and asked to return with it.

Current address documents

Your address on your Real ID must match your current residence. If you have moved since your last license renewal, you must bring a document showing your new address. If your address has not changed, you may not need to bring a separate address document — the DMV will use what is already on file.

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common address proof. It must be dated within the last 60 days. A lease or mortgage statement also works. A property tax bill or homeowner's insurance policy showing your current address is accepted. Some states accept a bank statement or credit card statement dated within 60 days.

If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, some states accept a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live there. Other states require a lease or rental agreement in your name instead. A few states accept a government benefit letter (such as unemployment or disability) showing your address. Check your state's specific list before you go, because address rules vary more than other categories.

What to bring if you were born outside the U.S.

If you were born outside the United States, you need a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) as your identity document. Both show your date of birth, so you do not need a separate date of birth document. You still need proof of your Social Security number and current address.

If you are a lawful permanent resident but do not yet have a Green Card in hand, bring your Notice of Approval (Form I-797) or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) showing your status. Some states accept these; others require the actual Green Card. Call your state DMV before your appointment to confirm what they will accept.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you cannot get a Real ID. You may be able to get a standard state ID or driver's license instead, depending on your state's rules for non-citizens. Contact your state DMV to learn what documents you would need for that option.

Common mistakes that delay or block your process

Bringing a photocopy instead of an original or certified copy is the most frequent reason people are turned away. The DMV will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, or address proof, even if it is notarized. If you do not have the original, request a certified copy from the issuing agency before your appointment.

Bringing an address document dated more than 60 days ago is another common problem. If your utility bill is older than two months, it will not be accepted. If you have moved recently and do not yet have a bill in your new name, bring a lease or rental agreement instead, or ask your landlord for a notarized letter confirming you live there.

Forgetting to bring a document that covers all four categories is avoidable with a checklist. Before you leave for the DMV, verify that you have one document for identity, one for date of birth (if not covered by identity), one for Social Security, and one for address. If you are unsure whether a document will be accepted, call your state DMV the day before your appointment rather than discovering the problem when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. A photo of your birth certificate or Social Security card on your phone will not be accepted. You must bring the physical document or a certified copy printed on paper.

Does my address have to match exactly what is on my driver's license?

Your address on your Real ID must match your current residence. If you have moved, the address on your old license no longer matters. Bring a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You cannot get a Real ID without a Social Security number. If you do not have one, contact the Social Security Administration to request one before you go to the DMV. This process takes one to two weeks. If you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number, you may be able to get a standard state ID instead, depending on your state's rules.

Can I use my expired passport as proof of identity?

Yes. An expired passport is still accepted as proof of identity and date of birth for Real ID. The DMV does not require your passport to be current. Bring it along with your Social Security proof and address proof.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate is not accepted on its own. You must have a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) showing you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Bring that document instead of your foreign birth certificate.