The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but every state requires proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your current address

Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. To get one, you walk into your state's DMV or equivalent office with specific documents in hand. The exact list varies slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere: who you are, whether you're allowed to be here, and where you live. You cannot complete this in person without bringing originals or certified copies — online or mail-in Real ID applications do not exist.

Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, because one state may take a utility bill for address proof while another requires a lease or mortgage statement. Before you go, check your state's DMV site and look for "Real ID documents" or "REAL ID requirements." Bring more than you think you need — if one document is rejected, you do not want to make a second trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID.
  • Proof of citizenship or legal residency is required; a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or immigration document serves this purpose.
  • Proof of your current address must be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement.
  • Your state's DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts, because requirements vary by state.
  • You must appear in person with original documents or certified copies; Real ID cannot be obtained by mail or online.

Proof of Identity: What the DMV will accept

The DMV needs to see that you are who you say you are. A current or expired passport works in every state. So does a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state, territory, or tribe — it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed seal, not a photocopy you made yourself. A current state driver's license or ID card from another state also counts.

Some states accept a foreign passport if you are not yet a U.S. citizen, or a Trusted Traveler card (like a NEXUS or SENTRI card) if you have one. A few states accept a military ID. Check your state's list before you go, because the DMV will not guess whether your document qualifies.

Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency: Documents that prove your status

The federal government requires Real ID applicants to prove they are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport is the easiest proof — it covers both identity and citizenship in one document. A birth certificate with a raised seal also works for citizens. A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-545 or FS-240) proves citizenship if you were born outside the U.S. to a U.S. citizen parent.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (a green card holder), bring your green card or a copy of your I-797 approval notice from USCIS. If you have a work visa or other immigration status that allows you to stay in the U.S., bring your I-94 arrival/departure record or your I-131 advance parole document. Your state's DMV website will list which immigration documents it accepts, because the rules differ slightly by state.

If you cannot locate your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30. Plan ahead if you need one.

Proof of Current Address: Recent documents with your name and address

The DMV needs to confirm where you live right now. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show both your name and your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement also work. Some states accept a government benefit statement, like an unemployment or Social Security letter.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, most states will not accept it. If you are homeless or do not have a recent bill in your name, ask your DMV what alternatives they allow — some accept a notarized letter from someone who can vouch for your address, or a shelter intake form. Do not assume your situation disqualifies you; call your DMV first.

Social Security Number and Tax Information

You will need to provide your Social Security number when you explore. The DMV uses it to verify your identity and check for fraud. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DMV staff when you arrive — some states have workarounds, though they vary.

You do not need to bring a Social Security card or a tax return. The DMV will ask for your number verbally or on the process form. If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration, but you do not need it for Real ID.

What to bring if you have changed your name

If your name on your identity document does not match the name on your address proof, bring a document showing the legal name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. The document must be an original or certified copy.

If you were married and took your spouse's name but do not have a certified copy of the marriage certificate, you can order one from the county clerk's office where you were married. If you changed your name by court order, request a certified copy from the court that issued it. These usually arrive within one to two weeks.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card, even though you will provide your number. You do not need a passport if you have other acceptable identity and citizenship documents. You do not need to bring multiple proofs of address — one recent bill is enough. You do not need a letter from your employer or a reference from anyone else.

You do not need to complete any forms before you arrive at the DMV. The staff will give you the process form when you check in. Filling it out ahead of time can actually slow things down if you make a mistake, because you will have to cross it out and start over on the form the DMV provides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of the original?

No. The DMV requires an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed seal. A photocopy you made at home will not be accepted. If you do not have a certified copy, order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born before you go to the DMV.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

The DMV will not accept it. You need a document dated within the last 60 days. If your most recent bill is older, contact your utility company or bank and ask them to send you a recent statement, or print one online if they offer that option. This usually takes a few days.

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

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. The DMV will ask you about it during your appointment.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DMV with your original documents. Real ID requires a face-to-face appointment so the DMV can verify your identity and take your photo. You cannot send someone else in your place or mail in your documents.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-545 or FS-240) if you are a U.S. citizen, or your green card or I-94 if you are a lawful permanent resident. If you have a foreign passport, bring that too — it helps prove your identity. Your state's DMV website will list which documents it accepts for non-U.S. births.