The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but all states require proof of identity, proof of residence, and proof of citizenship or legal status

Every state that issues Real IDs requires the same three categories of documents, but the specific papers that count toward each category vary. You cannot walk into a DMV with just a driver's license and leave with a Real ID — you need to bring originals or certified copies of documents that prove who you are, where you live, and that you have the right to be in the United States. Most people can gather these in a few hours if they know where to look.

The documents listed here are the ones most states accept. Your state's DMV website will have its own approved list, and some states accept fewer options than others. Before you go to the DMV, check your state's Real ID page to see which documents it takes for each category.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of residence (a utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal status (a passport or birth certificate for citizens, or an immigration document for non-citizens).
  • Original documents or certified copies are required — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.
  • Your name on all three documents must match exactly, or you will need to bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal name change.
  • Each state has its own approved document list, so you must check your DMV's Real ID requirements before you visit.
  • If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born.

Proof of identity: what counts

Proof of identity means a document issued by a government agency that has your photo and signature. A current or expired passport is the strongest option because it proves both identity and citizenship at once. If you do not have a passport, a state-issued ID card or driver's license from another state works. Some states also accept a tribal ID card, a military ID, or a passport card.

If you have none of these, you can use a birth certificate, but only if you also bring a second document with your photo — a school ID, employee ID, or even a library card with your picture on it. The second document does not have to be government-issued. A few states accept a certified copy of a court record that shows your name and date of birth, such as a divorce decree or adoption papers.

The document must be current or expired no more than five years ago in most states, though some states accept older documents if they are still readable. Check your state's list to be sure.

Proof of residence: what counts

Proof of residence means a document that shows your name and current address. A utility bill in your name (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) is the easiest option and is accepted in every state. The bill must be dated within the last 60 days in most states. A lease or rental agreement with your name and address works in most states, even if it is older, as long as it is still your current address.

Other documents that count in most states include a mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail (such as a tax return or Social Security statement). Some states accept a letter from your employer or school on official letterhead that shows your name and address. A few states accept a notarized letter from a landlord or family member confirming your address, though this is less common.

Documents that do not count include a credit card statement, a cell phone bill (unless it is from a landline), or mail addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant." If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask them to bring a letter from the utility company showing that you live there, or bring a lease in your name instead.

Proof of citizenship or legal status: what counts

If you are a U.S. citizen, a passport (book or card) is the easiest proof because it covers both identity and citizenship. A birth certificate issued by a state vital records office also works. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp — a photocopy or a copy printed from an online database does not count. If you were born outside the U.S., you can use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240) or a Certificate of Naturalization.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but have legal status, you must bring an immigration document. Accepted documents include a green card (Permanent Resident Card), an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) document, a visa, or an I-94 arrival/departure record. Some states also accept a state ID or driver's license issued to non-citizens, though this varies. If you have a visa, it must be current or expired no more than one year ago in most states.

If your immigration status is pending or you are in the country on a visa, check your state's rules before you visit. Some states issue Real IDs to visa holders; others do not. A few states have different rules for REAL ID versus standard ID, so ask whether you are may be able to access before gathering documents.

What to do if your name does not match across documents

Your name must be the same on your proof of identity, proof of residence, and proof of citizenship. If it is not — because you changed your name, got married, or used a nickname on one document — you need to bring proof of the legal name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order changing your name will do. The document must be an original or certified copy.

If you changed your name through marriage or divorce, bring the marriage certificate or final divorce decree. If you changed your name by court order, bring the court order. Some states also accept a notarized affidavit explaining the name change if you do not have the original document, though this is less common. Call your DMV ahead of time if your names do not match — staff can tell you exactly what you need to bring.

How to get documents you do not have

If you do not have a birth certificate, order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. You can find the office online by searching "[your state] vital records" or by calling the state health department. Most states let you order online, by mail, or in person. Expect to pay $10 to $30 and wait one to four weeks, though expedited options are usually available for an extra fee. If you were born outside the U.S., contact the vital records office in that country or the U.S. embassy or consulate.

If you do not have a passport and need one for proof of citizenship, you can explore at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office, library, or courthouse) or a passport agency. A passport book takes four to six weeks to arrive by mail, or one to two weeks if you pay for expedited service. A passport card is faster and costs less but is not accepted for international travel by air. If you need proof of citizenship quickly, a birth certificate is usually faster to obtain.

If you need a certified copy of a document you already have, contact the office that issued it. For a birth certificate, contact the vital records office. For a marriage certificate, contact the county clerk where you were married. For a divorce decree, contact the court that issued it. Most offices can mail you a certified copy within one to two weeks.

What to bring to the DMV

Bring originals or certified copies of all three categories of documents — do not bring photocopies or photos of documents on your phone. Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. Bring your Social Security number or a document with it on it (such as a Social Security card or tax return). Some states also ask for your date of birth and current address, so write these down before you go.

Bring the completed Real ID process form for your state — you can read it from your DMV's website or fill it out at the DMV. Bring payment for the Real ID fee, which varies by state but is usually $20 to $50. Some states charge extra if you want a Real ID instead of a standard ID. Check your state's website to see the exact fee and whether you can pay online or must pay in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy or a picture of my documents on my phone?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies with an official seal or stamp. A photocopy, a photo on your phone, or a document printed from an online database will not be accepted. If you do not have the original, contact the office that issued it and request a certified copy.

What if I was born outside the United States?

If you are a U.S. citizen, bring a passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. If you are not a citizen, bring a current visa, green card, EAD, or other immigration document. Contact your state's DMV to confirm which documents it accepts for non-citizens, because rules vary.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You do not need to bring the card itself, but you must provide your Social Security number. You can write it on your process or bring any document that has it on it, such as a tax return or W-2. If you do not have a Social Security number, ask your DMV what documents you can bring instead.

How long does it take to get a Real ID after I submit my documents?

Most states mail your Real ID within two to four weeks. Some states offer expedited service for an extra fee. Check your state's DMV website for the exact timeline. You will receive a confirmation number when you explore — use it to track your card online.

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

Contact your state's DMV and explain your situation. Some states allow you to bring alternative documents, such as a passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a court record. Others may ask you to file an affidavit or provide additional proof. Call ahead so staff can tell you what options are available.