The Documents You'll Need to Bring

To get a Real ID, you need to bring three categories of documents to your state's DMV or driver's license office: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You cannot complete the process without all three. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

You will hand these documents to a DMV employee, who will verify them and make copies for your file. You do not need to mail anything in advance. Bring the originals — not photocopies — to your appointment or walk-in visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving your identity, one proving your Social Security number, and one proving your current address.
  • A valid passport or passport card counts as both identity and citizenship proof, so you may need fewer documents if you have one.
  • Your current driver's license or state ID counts as identity proof but not as proof of address, even if an address is printed on it.
  • Utility bills, lease agreements, and mortgage statements all work as proof of address, but they must show your name and current address.
  • Some documents — like a birth certificate — are accepted in some states but not others, so check your state's specific list before you go.

Proof of Identity Documents

You need one document that shows your name, date of birth, and a photo. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state all work. If you have a current driver's license or state ID from your own state, that counts as identity proof even though you are replacing it.

If you do not have any of those, a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory is accepted in most states. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. A few states accept a military ID card or a tribal ID card. Check your state's DMV website for the complete list, because not every document is accepted everywhere.

Documents that do not work for identity proof include school IDs, work IDs, library cards, and expired passports. A birth certificate without a raised seal or official signature may be rejected, so make sure yours looks official.

Proof of Social Security Number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. The easiest option is your Social Security card itself — bring the original. If you have lost your card or never received one, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document with your number works. A paystub with your full Social Security number also works.

Some states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration as proof. You can request this letter online at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The letter takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail. If you need your Real ID quickly, bringing your actual Social Security card is faster.

Documents that do not work include a driver's license with your number printed on it, a bank statement, or a credit card statement. The document must be an official record from Social Security, the IRS, or your employer.

Proof of Current Address

You need one document showing your name and your current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works if it is dated within the last 60 days. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works. A property tax bill, homeowner's insurance bill, or renter's insurance bill will work too.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and statements from other financial institutions are accepted in most states if they show your current address and are dated within the last 60 days. Some states also accept a voter registration card, a vehicle registration, or a vehicle insurance card.

Documents that do not work include a driver's license or state ID (even though an address is printed on it), a postcard, mail from a government agency that does not show your street address, or a document with a PO box instead of a street address. The document must show a physical street address where you actually live.

What Happens If You Do Not Have One of These Documents

If you do not have a document from one of the three categories, you have options. For identity proof, you can bring two documents that together show your name, date of birth, and a photo — for example, a school ID plus a birth certificate. Some states allow this combination; others do not. Check your state's rules first.

For Social Security proof, if you have lost your card and do not have a tax document or paystub, you can request a replacement card from Social Security. This takes about two weeks. You can explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.

For address proof, if you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, some states accept a signed letter from your landlord or a copy of your lease. A few states accept a notarized statement from someone who lives with you. Call your state DMV before your visit to ask what they will accept in your situation.

Citizenship and Immigration Status Documents

Real ID requires proof that you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and counts as your identity document too. A birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory also proves citizenship.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card or a Permanent Resident Card. If you are a refugee or asylee, bring your Refugee Travel Document or your Advance Parole Document. If you are in the United States on a visa, you cannot get a Real ID — you can only get a standard driver's license.

Some states also accept a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship as proof. A Consular Report of Birth Abroad works if you were born outside the U.S. to a U.S. citizen parent. Check your state's list to see which documents it accepts.

How to Prepare Before You Go to the DMV

Before your visit, gather all three documents and check that they are current and in good condition. Make sure your utility bill or other address proof is dated within the last 60 days. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

Take a photo of each document with your phone or make a list of the document names and numbers. This helps you remember what you brought and speeds up the DMV process. Arrive early — Real ID appointments often fill up weeks in advance, and walk-in lines can be long.

Check your state's DMV website for any additional documents specific to your situation. Some states require extra paperwork if you are changing your name, if you are under 18, or if you are renewing rather than explore for the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a copy of my documents instead of the original?

No. The DMV must see the original documents. They will make copies for your file, but you have to bring the originals to prove they are real. Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get bent or damaged on the way.

What if my address on my driver's license does not match my current address?

Your driver's license address does not count as proof of your current address, even if it is recent. You still need a separate document like a utility bill or lease that shows where you live now. If you have moved since your last license renewal, bring a document dated after your move.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a recent tax return?

Either one works. A W-2, 1099, or paystub with your full Social Security number is just as acceptable as the card itself. If you have a tax document handy, you do not need to search for your card. Just make sure the document shows your complete number.

Can my spouse's utility bill work as proof of my address?

Only if your name is also on the bill. The document must show your name and your current street address. If you live with someone else and only their name is on the utility bill, ask the DMV what alternative documents they will accept — some states allow a notarized letter from a household member in this situation.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can still get a Real ID if you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Bring a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a valid U.S. passport. If you are a green card holder, bring your Permanent Resident Card. If you are on a visa, you can only get a standard driver's license, not a Real ID.