The documents you need depend on which category of proof you're bringing

Real ID requires you to prove three things: your identity, your Social Security number, and your current address. The documents that satisfy each requirement vary by state, but the categories are the same across all 50 states. You do not need to bring every document listed below — you need one from each category, and some documents count as more than one proof at once.

The specific documents your state accepts are listed on your state DMV website under "Real ID documents" or "REAL ID acceptable documents." Some states accept more options than others. For example, a passport card works everywhere, but a tribal ID may be accepted in one state and not another. Check your state's list before you gather anything.

You will also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card, even if it is expired. If you do not have one, you will need to follow your state's first-time ID process instead, which requires additional documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID requires proof in three categories: identity, Social Security number, and current address — you need one document from each.
  • A passport or passport card proves identity and Social Security number at once, so you only need an address document to complete the set.
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts; some states accept more options than others.
  • Birth certificates, naturalization papers, and tribal IDs are common identity documents, but each state's DMV controls which ones it takes.
  • You must bring your current driver's license or ID card to the DMV, even if it is expired.

Documents that prove your identity

An identity document must show your name and date of birth. The most common options are a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or tribal ID. Some states also accept military discharge papers (DD-214), a permanent resident card (green card), or a foreign passport with a visa or I-94 stamp.

A birth certificate must be an official certified copy from the state or county where you were born — a photocopy or hospital-issued copy will not work. If you were born outside the United States, a naturalization certificate or a foreign birth certificate with an official English translation is usually required. Some states accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) instead.

If you have a passport or passport card, bring it — it proves both identity and Social Security number, which cuts your document load in half. You will still need an address document.

Documents that prove your Social Security number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. The easiest option is a Social Security card itself. If you do not have one, a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form from the past three years works. Some states also accept a paystub, a bank statement, or a document from the Social Security Administration.

If you have a passport or passport card, you do not need a separate Social Security document — the passport counts as proof of both identity and Social Security number. If you have a naturalization certificate, check your state's rules; some states treat it as proof of Social Security number as well.

Do not bring original tax documents if you can avoid it — bring a copy. The DMV will not keep them, but handling originals creates unnecessary risk. A paystub or bank statement is safer because you can replace it easily.

Documents that prove your current address

Your address document must show your name and current street address. It cannot be a PO box. Common options are a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, or government mail (such as a tax notice or voter registration card). Some states also accept insurance documents, phone bills, or statements from a healthcare provider.

The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though some allow up to 90 days. Check your state's specific rule before you gather documents. If you recently moved, bring a document dated after your move — an old utility bill from your previous address will not work.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them stating that you live at that address, plus the bill itself. Some states require the letter to be notarized; others do not. Call your DMV to ask before you go.

What to bring if you were born outside the United States

If you were born outside the U.S., you need proof of citizenship or permanent residency in addition to the three standard categories. A U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and counts as your identity document. A naturalization certificate also proves citizenship. A permanent resident card (green card) proves residency.

If your birth certificate is from another country, it must be accompanied by an official English translation. Some states require the translation to be certified by a translator; others accept any translation. Your state DMV website will specify. You can hire a professional translator, or some states accept translations done by a consulate or embassy.

A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), issued by the U.S. State Department, proves both citizenship and identity. If you have one, bring it instead of a birth certificate.

What to bring if you do not have a Social Security number

If you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number — for example, if you are a permanent resident or visa holder — your state may allow you to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. An ITIN document (IRS letter or tax return showing your ITIN) replaces the Social Security requirement.

Not all states accept ITINs for Real ID. Check your state DMV website first. If your state does not accept an ITIN, you may not be able to get a Real ID, though you can still get a standard driver's license or ID card.

Common mistakes when gathering documents

The most frequent error is bringing an address document that is too old. Utility bills and bank statements must be recent — usually within 60 days. If your bill is dated three months ago, it will not work. If you have moved recently, make sure your new address document is dated after the move.

Another common mistake is bringing a photocopy of a birth certificate instead of a certified copy. The DMV will reject it. Order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born; it usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. Do not wait until the day before your appointment.

A third mistake is bringing a document that shows a PO box instead of a street address. The DMV will not accept it as proof of address, even if you live at that PO box. If you do not have a street address, ask your state DMV what alternatives it allows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a copy of my documents, or do I have to bring originals?

Bring originals. The DMV will examine them and return them to you — they do not keep them. The exception is a certified birth certificate; you may want to bring a copy and keep the original at home, but call your DMV first to ask whether it will accept a copy.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current name?

Bring documentation of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will verify that the name change is legal and update your records. Without this document, you will not be able to proceed.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a tax return instead?

Either works. A tax return, W-2, or paystub is acceptable. A Social Security card is faster because the DMV does not have to verify it, but if you do not have the card, bring a copy of a recent tax document instead.

My address document is dated 75 days ago — will the DMV accept it?

Most states require documents dated within 60 days; some allow 90 days. Call your state DMV to ask. If it is outside the window, bring a newer document — a recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement. Do not assume the DMV will make an exception.

What if I live in a state but my driver's license is from another state?

You must surrender your out-of-state license and get a new one from your current state. Bring proof that you live in your current state (an address document) and follow your state's process for a new resident. You cannot upgrade an out-of-state license to Real ID.