The documents you'll bring to the DMV

To get a Real ID, you need to bring three categories of documents to your state's DMV or equivalent licensing office: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents that count in each category vary slightly by state, but the categories themselves are federal requirements. You cannot complete the Real ID process online or by mail — you must appear in person with originals or certified copies.

Most people can gather these documents from their home without special requests. The challenge is knowing which specific documents your state accepts, because a document that works in one state may not work in another. Your state's DMV website lists the accepted documents for your situation, and you should check there before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies of documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and current address — photocopies alone will not work.
  • A passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license counts as proof of identity in every state, but other documents vary by state.
  • A Social Security card is the easiest proof of your Social Security number, but a W-2, tax return, or benefit statement also works in most states.
  • Your state DMV website lists which documents it accepts in each category, and you should verify before your appointment because requirements differ by state.
  • You must appear in person at the DMV with your documents — Real ID cannot be obtained by mail or online.

Proof of identity documents

Your proof of identity must show your name, date of birth, and a photograph. A U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license satisfies this requirement in every state. If you do not have one of those, your state DMV will accept other documents — typically a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or state ID card — but the specific list depends on your state.

If you were born outside the United States, you will need a birth certificate issued by the foreign country, a naturalization certificate, or a Certificate of Citizenship. These documents must be originals or certified copies. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work, even if it is notarized.

Some states also accept a valid foreign passport as proof of identity if you are not yet a U.S. citizen. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your document is on the accepted list.

Proof of Social Security number

The easiest document to bring is your Social Security card itself. If you have it, bring the original. If you have lost it or never received one, you can use a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a benefit statement from Social Security or the Veterans Administration, or a pay stub that shows your full Social Security number.

Most states accept any of these documents. A few states have a shorter list — for example, some will not accept a pay stub — so check your state's requirements before your appointment. If you do not have any of these documents, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV.

Proof of current address

You need a document showing your name and your current street address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement typically works. The document must be recent — most states require it to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. Check your state's requirement.

If you have moved recently and your utility bill or lease still shows an old address, bring a document dated after your move. If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, other documents that work in most states include a property tax statement, an insurance bill, a government benefit statement, or a letter from a government agency. A credit card statement or cell phone bill usually does not work, so verify with your state before relying on those.

If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, some states allow you to use a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or other organization that can verify where you are staying. Contact your state DMV to learn what documents are accepted in your situation.

Documents you must bring in original or certified form

Photocopies, scans, or faxes of your documents will not be accepted. You must bring originals or certified copies. A certified copy is a photocopy that has been stamped and signed by the government office that issued the original — for example, a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the county where you were born.

If you do not have an original and cannot get a certified copy before your appointment, you may be able to request one by mail from the issuing office. Birth certificates typically take one to four weeks to arrive by mail, depending on the state. If you need your Real ID quickly, plan ahead and request certified copies early.

What to do if you cannot find a document

If you have lost a document or never received one, you can request a replacement before your DMV appointment. A replacement birth certificate can be ordered from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born — search "[your state] vital records" online to find the office. A replacement Social Security card can be ordered from the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov or by visiting a local Social Security office.

Some documents take several weeks to arrive. If you need your Real ID by a specific date, order replacements as soon as possible. In the meantime, check your state's DMV website to see whether other documents in that category might work for you — for example, if you cannot find your birth certificate, a naturalization certificate or passport may be accepted instead.

Bringing documents for a dependent or minor

If you are getting a Real ID for someone under 18, you will need to bring documents for that person plus documents proving your relationship to them. Bring an original or certified copy of the minor's birth certificate, and bring your own ID showing your name and address. Some states also require a signed consent form from both parents or guardians if the minor's parents are not both present.

The minor must still appear in person at the DMV. Check your state's website for the specific documents required for minors, because requirements vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not work. If you do not have the original, order a certified copy from the county or state where you were born.

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

Bring a document showing your current address dated within the last 60 days (or your state's timeframe). This can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name at your new address. Your identity document does not have to match your current address.

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

No. You must bring physical originals or certified copies. Digital copies, photos, or scans will not be accepted, even if you show them on your phone at the DMV.

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

No. A W-2, tax return, benefit statement, or other document showing your Social Security number works in most states. Check your state's DMV website to confirm which documents it accepts before your appointment.

What documents do I need if I was born outside the United States?

You will need your foreign birth certificate (original or certified copy), a naturalization certificate, or a Certificate of Citizenship. Some states also accept a valid foreign passport. Check your state's DMV website for the complete list of documents it accepts for people born outside the U.S.