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 credentials fall into three categories: you must prove who you are, where you live, and that your Social Security number is real. Most states accept the same types of documents for each category, though a few have stricter rules. You will bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. The DMV staff will look at each document in person, so you cannot mail them in ahead of time.

The exact documents you need vary slightly by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go. Some states accept a passport card as proof of identity and residency combined, which cuts the number of documents you need to bring. Others require separate documents for each proof. Knowing what your state accepts saves you a trip back home.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies of documents proving identity, residency, and your Social Security number — photocopies are not accepted.
  • A valid U.S. passport or passport card covers identity and residency in most states, reducing the total number of documents you need.
  • Proof of residency usually means a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your name and current address.
  • Your state DMV website lists exactly which documents that state accepts, and some states have different rules than others.
  • You will show documents in person at the DMV; you cannot mail them ahead or send photos.

Proof of identity documents that most states accept

A valid U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest proof of identity because it also counts as proof of citizenship. If you have one, bring it — it covers two requirements at once. A certified birth certificate (the official copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy) works in every state. A driver's license or state ID from another state is accepted, though it must not be expired. Some states also accept a military ID, a tribal ID card, or a permanent resident card (green card).

If you do not have any of these, a few states accept a certificate of naturalization or a consular report of birth abroad. Check your state's list before you assume a document will work. The document must show your full legal name and date of birth, and it must not be expired (except for a passport, which some states accept even if expired).

Proof of residency: what your state will accept

Proof of residency means a document that shows your name and your current address. A recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice and is accepted in all states. A lease or rental agreement with your name and address works in most states. A mortgage statement or property tax bill also works. These documents usually need to be dated within the last 60 days, though some states allow up to 90 days — check your state's rule.

If you cannot get a utility bill or lease, other documents may work: a bank or credit card statement, a government check or benefits statement, a vehicle registration, or a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. A few states accept a voter registration card or a school enrollment letter. The document must have your full name and current address printed on it — a handwritten address will not work. If you have moved recently and your documents still show an old address, bring a second document that proves you have moved, such as a change-of-address confirmation from the post office.

Proof of your Social Security number

You must bring a document that shows your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the most straightforward option. If you do not have one, a W-2 form or 1099 form from your employer shows your number. A tax return (federal or state) also works. A benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or another government program that displays your number is accepted in most states.

If you have never worked and do not have any of these documents, contact your local Social Security office to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number. This usually takes one to two weeks. You cannot use a document with your number written in by hand — it must be printed or official.

Proof of citizenship or lawful presence

Real ID requires proof that you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A valid U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and is accepted everywhere. A certified birth certificate also proves citizenship if you were born in the United States. If you were born outside the U.S., a consular report of birth abroad or a certificate of naturalization proves citizenship.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), your permanent resident card (green card) proves your status. Some states also accept a refugee travel document, an employment authorization document (EAD), or an I-94 arrival/departure record with an unexpired I-94 number. The rules vary by state, so check before you go. If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, you cannot get a Real ID; you can get a standard state ID instead.

What to bring if you have changed your name

If your current name does not match the name on your birth certificate or other identity documents, you must bring proof of the name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change is required. The document must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or the court's stamp — a photocopy will not work.

If you have changed your name more than once, bring documents for each change in order. For example, if you were born as Jane Smith, married and became Jane Johnson, then divorced and took back Smith, bring both the marriage certificate and the divorce decree. The DMV staff will review them to make sure the chain of names is clear.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card itself if you have a W-2, tax return, or benefits statement showing your number. You do not need to bring a passport if you have a birth certificate and other required documents. You do not need to bring multiple documents proving the same thing — one proof of residency is enough, and one proof of identity is enough.

You do not need to bring originals of every document if you have certified copies. A certified copy is an official photocopy made by the issuing agency (such as the county clerk's office for a birth certificate) and stamped with an official seal. Certified copies are treated the same as originals at the DMV. However, some documents, such as a passport, must be the original.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo of my documents instead of bringing the originals?

No. The DMV must see the original documents or certified copies in person. You cannot mail photos or scans ahead of time, and you cannot submit them online. Bring the physical documents to your appointment.

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

Small differences, such as a middle initial missing or spelled differently, are usually not a problem if you can show they refer to the same person. Larger differences, such as a completely different first name, require a name-change document. If you are unsure, contact your state DMV before your appointment.

Do I need to bring my old driver's license or state ID?

Yes, if you already have one. Bring it along with your other documents. If you do not have one, you do not need to bring anything in its place.

What if my residency document is older than 60 days?

Most states will not accept it. Get a new utility bill, bank statement, or lease that is dated within the last 60 to 90 days (depending on your state). If you cannot get a recent document, contact your DMV to ask what alternatives they accept.

Can I use a document from someone else in my household to prove residency?

No. The document must have your name on it. If you live with family or roommates, the utility bill or lease must be in your name or show you as an authorized resident.