The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but all states require proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal status

Every state's Real ID process requires three categories of documents. You will bring originals or certified copies to your DMV or state ID office — photocopies alone will not work. The specific documents accepted within each category vary slightly by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go, but the framework is the same everywhere.

You cannot complete a Real ID process online or by mail in any state. You must appear in person at a DMV office or equivalent state agency, bring your documents, and have them verified on the spot.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, such as a current passport, passport card, or state-issued ID.
  • You need proof that you live at your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • You must show proof of U.S. citizenship or legal status, such as a birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card.
  • Every state requires you to appear in person at a DMV office with original documents — you cannot mail in your process or use copies.
  • Processing times vary by state but typically range from a few days to several weeks; check your state's DMV website for current wait times.

Proof of Identity: What documents work

Your proof of identity must be an original document or certified copy. A current U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest form of ID and is accepted in every state. If you do not have a passport, a current state-issued driver's license or ID card works in most states, even if it is not a Real ID itself.

Other documents that may work include a military ID, a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a commercial driver's license (CDL), or a state ID card. Some states also accept a foreign passport if you are a permanent resident. Expired documents are generally not accepted — your identity document must be current or have expired no more than a few years ago, depending on your state's rules.

Bring the original document. A photocopy, even a certified one, usually will not satisfy the identity requirement on its own.

Proof of Residency: Documents showing your current address

You need a document that shows your name and your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice and is accepted everywhere. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement with your address also works in most states.

Government mail counts in some states — a letter from the Social Security Administration, the IRS, or your state's tax agency showing your address is often accepted. A few states accept mail from insurance companies or healthcare providers. Check your state's DMV website for the full list, because some documents that work in one state do not work in another.

If you have recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your new name, ask your DMV what temporary documents they will accept. Some will take a signed letter from your landlord or a recent change-of-address confirmation from the post office.

Proof of Citizenship or Legal Status: Birth certificates and immigration documents

You must prove you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A certified copy of your birth certificate is the most straightforward proof of citizenship. The certificate must be a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — a photocopy or a hospital birth certificate will not work.

If you were born outside the United States, a U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship and is accepted in every state. A naturalization certificate (the document you receive when you become a U.S. citizen) also works. If you are a permanent resident, your green card (Permanent Resident Card) or a receipt notice showing your pending status may be accepted, depending on your state.

Some states accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) if you were born to a U.S. citizen parent outside the country. A few states also accept a Certificate of Citizenship. Check your state's DMV website to confirm which documents they accept for your situation.

How to get certified copies if you do not have originals

If you do not have a certified copy of your birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Most states allow you to order online, by mail, or in person. The process typically takes one to two weeks, though expedited options are available for an extra fee. Search "[your state] vital records" or "[your state] birth certificate" to find the office's website.

If you were born outside the United States, contact the vital records office in that country or the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. Processing times are longer — sometimes four to eight weeks — so plan ahead.

If you have lost your naturalization certificate or green card, you can request a replacement from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A replacement green card takes several weeks; a replacement naturalization certificate can take longer. In the meantime, ask your DMV whether a receipt notice or other USCIS document will allow you to proceed with your Real ID process.

What to bring on the day of your appointment

Bring originals or certified copies of all three categories: identity, residency, and citizenship. Bring your Social Security number or Social Security card. Bring your current state ID or driver's license if you have one. Bring a completed process form — most states let you fill it out online beforehand and print it, or you can fill it out at the DMV.

Bring your payment method. Real ID fees vary by state, typically between $20 and $50 for a standard ID and more for an expedited card. Some states accept cash, check, or card; others accept only card. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and payment methods accepted at your local office.

Bring any name-change documents if your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have changed your name, you will need to show both your old name (on the birth certificate) and your current name (on your ID or other documents).

Processing time and when you will receive your Real ID

After your appointment, your state will mail your Real ID card to the address you provided. Processing time varies widely by state. Some states mail cards within a few days; others take two to four weeks. A few states with high volume may take longer. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times — they change based on how busy the DMV is.

You can usually check the status of your process online using your driver's license number or process number. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee if you need your card sooner.

Until your Real ID arrives, your current state ID or driver's license remains valid for domestic flights and federal buildings, even if it is not a Real ID. You do not need to rush — the federal important date for Real ID compliance is May 7, 2025, but you have time to gather your documents and schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of a certified copy?

No. The DMV requires a certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not work. You can order a certified copy online from your state's vital records office in one to two weeks.

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

Bring both documents — your birth certificate and a name-change document such as a marriage certificate or court order. The DMV will verify that the name change is legal and update your Real ID to your current name.

Do I need a Social Security card to get a Real ID?

You need to provide your Social Security number, but you do not have to bring the physical card. You can write the number on your process. If you do not know your number, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a tax return or W-2.

Can I use a utility bill from a roommate or family member to prove residency?

No. The document must show your name and your address. If you recently moved and do not have a bill in your name yet, ask your DMV what temporary documents they accept — some will take a signed letter from your landlord or a post office change-of-address confirmation.

What if I do not have a birth certificate and cannot get one?

Contact your state's DMV to discuss alternatives. Some states will accept a passport, naturalization certificate, or other citizenship document in place of a birth certificate. If you were born abroad, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a passport may work. Your DMV can tell you what options are available in your situation.