Bring your current ID, proof of citizenship, and proof of address

You need to walk into your Real ID appointment with three categories of documents: something that proves who you are right now, something that proves you are a U.S. citizen, and something that proves where you live. The DMV will not issue a Real ID without all three. Bring originals, not copies — the staff will examine them in person and may keep some of them.

The exact documents that count vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. Your state DMV website lists which specific documents they accept, and you should check that list before you go. Showing up with the wrong document wastes your appointment slot and you will have to reschedule.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring an original, unexpired photo ID (passport, military ID, or current driver's license) to prove your identity.
  • Bring an original proof of citizenship document such as a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate.
  • Bring an original proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Bring your Social Security number on paper or memorized, because you will need to provide it during your appointment.
  • Check your state DMV's specific document list before you go, because accepted documents vary by state.

Photo ID documents that prove who you are

You must bring an original photo ID that is currently valid (not expired). A passport is the strongest option because it proves both identity and citizenship at once. If you have a U.S. passport, bring it — you may not need a separate citizenship document.

If you do not have a passport, bring a military ID, a current driver's license from another state, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card (green card). Some states also accept a passport card, which is smaller than a full passport but serves the same purpose. The ID must have your photo, your name, and an expiration date that has not passed.

If your current ID is expired, most states will not accept it as proof of identity, even if you are renewing it. Check your state's rules before your appointment. A few states make exceptions for people renewing an expired license, but you cannot assume yours does.

Citizenship documents the DMV will examine

You need an original document proving you are a U.S. citizen. A U.S. passport or passport card covers this on its own. If you are bringing a different photo ID, you must also bring a citizenship document.

Accepted citizenship documents usually include a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship, or a consular report of birth abroad. Some states accept a baptism record or a hospital birth record if you were born before vital records were kept. Your state DMV website will list exactly which documents they take.

If you were born outside the United States and became a citizen through naturalization, bring your naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship. If you were born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, bring the consular report of birth abroad. Do not bring a green card as your only citizenship proof — it proves permanent residency, not citizenship.

Proof of address documents

You need an original document showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though some allow up to 90 days. The address on the document must match the address you give the DMV.

Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements all work. So do insurance policies, property tax statements, and vehicle registration documents. Some states accept a letter from your employer or a government agency addressed to you at your current address. A few states accept a cell phone bill or internet bill.

If you have moved recently and your mail has not caught up, bring a document dated before the move plus a second document (such as a lease or utility bill) showing your new address. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them stating that you live there, plus the bill itself. Rules vary by state, so call ahead if your situation is unusual.

Your Social Security number

You will need to provide your Social Security number during your appointment. You can write it down and bring it with you, or memorize it. The DMV will ask you to state it or show it in writing — they do not accept a Social Security card as a document, though you can bring one if it helps you remember the number.

If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DMV staff when you arrive. Some states have a process for people without a number, though it may delay your appointment or require you to come back later with additional paperwork.

Documents you do not need to bring

Do not bring copies of anything unless your state DMV specifically says to. Bring originals. The staff will examine them and may keep some documents on file — usually your citizenship document and proof of address — so do not bring documents you need to keep for other purposes.

You do not need to bring your Social Security card, though it can help you remember your number. You do not need to bring old IDs, old addresses, or documents showing name changes unless you have changed your name since your last ID and need to prove it. If you have changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Do not bring a list of documents or a checklist from another website. Bring what your state DMV says to bring. Each state's rules are different, and using another state's list can mean you show up unprepared.

What happens if you bring the wrong documents

If the DMV staff determine that your documents do not meet their requirements, they will not issue your Real ID. You will lose your appointment slot. You can reschedule, but you will have to come back another day with the correct documents.

Some DMV locations will tell you on the spot what you need to fix. Others will hand you a list and send you home. A few will let you step out, make a phone call, and have someone bring the missing document to you — but do not count on this. The safest approach is to verify your documents before you go.

If you are unsure whether a document will work, call your state DMV or visit their website. Many states have a document checker tool online. Using it takes 10 minutes and saves you a wasted trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a copy of my birth certificate instead of the original?

Most states require an original or certified copy. A certified copy is one stamped by the vital records office that issued it. A photocopy you made at home will not work. If you have a certified copy, bring that instead of the original — the DMV may keep it on file.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring both your current ID (even if the address is old) and a separate proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days. Tell the DMV staff that you have moved. They will update your address during your appointment.

Do I need to bring my old driver's license to renew it as a Real ID?

No. Bring your current ID (which may be your old driver's license), proof of citizenship, and proof of address. The DMV will take your old license when they issue the new one, but you do not need to bring it separately.

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

No. The DMV requires original documents. They need to see and examine the physical document. Digital copies are not accepted.

What if I do not have a proof of address document in my name?

Bring a document in someone else's name (such as a parent or spouse) plus a signed letter from that person stating you live there. Some states also accept a lease in your name, an employment letter, or a utility bill in a roommate's name with a signed statement. Call your DMV to ask what they accept in your situation.