The documents you'll bring 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 will need to show documents in three categories: who you are, your citizenship or legal status in the United States, and where you live. The exact documents accepted vary by state — some states accept a passport card, others do not — so you will need to check your state's DMV website before you go to the office.

You cannot complete this in one trip if you don't bring the right papers. The DMV will turn you away, and you'll have to return another day. This section walks you through what each category means and what documents typically work.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving your identity, one proving citizenship or legal residency, and one proving your address — all three categories are required.
  • A passport or passport card counts as both identity and citizenship proof, so bringing one cuts the number of documents you need.
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts, because not all states accept the same forms of proof.
  • Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies — the DMV will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate or passport.
  • If your address on your ID doesn't match your current address, bring a recent utility bill or lease to prove where you live now.

Proof of identity: what counts

Proof of identity means a document with your photo and name that shows who you are. A valid passport, passport card, or an out-of-state driver's license all work. If you don't have any of those, most states accept a military ID, a tribal ID card, or a state ID from another country.

Some states also accept documents without a photo if you bring a second form of ID along with it — for example, a Social Security card plus a birth certificate. But this varies widely. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a photo ID is required or whether you can use two non-photo documents instead.

Proof of citizenship or legal residency: what counts

This is the document that proves you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest option because it counts as both identity and citizenship proof in one document. If you have a passport, bring it and you're done with both categories.

If you don't have a passport, you can bring a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or a green card. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Native American tribal document. Again, your state's DMV website will list exactly which documents it accepts.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but are a lawful permanent resident, bring your green card. If you have a visa or another immigration status, check your state's DMV website — some states issue Real ID to certain visa holders, and others do not.

Proof of address: what counts

Proof of address means a recent document showing your name and your current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement all work. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though some states allow up to 90 days. Check your state's rules.

If your driver's license or ID card already shows your current address, you may not need a separate proof-of-address document — but call your DMV first to confirm. If you've moved recently and your ID shows an old address, bring the proof-of-address document to show where you live now.

Original documents versus copies

Bring originals or certified copies. The DMV will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate, passport, or any other document. A certified copy is a copy made by the government office that issued the original — for example, the county clerk's office can issue a certified copy of your birth certificate.

You can order certified copies by mail or in person from the county or state office that issued the document. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30 per copy. If you need your Real ID quickly, order the certified copies as soon as you know you need them.

What to bring on the day you go to the DMV

Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they don't get lost. Bring the originals or certified copies — not photocopies. Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized, because you'll need to provide it. Bring any other documents your state's DMV website says you need, such as proof of name change if you've been married or divorced.

Bring a completed process form if your state requires you to fill one out before you arrive. Many states let you fill it out online or at the DMV, but some require it in advance. Check your state's website to see what form you need and whether you can submit it before your appointment.

If you don't have all the documents yet

If you're missing a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship, order it now. Birth certificates take one to three weeks to arrive by mail, and longer if you order in person. You can order yours from the county or state vital records office where you were born — search "[your state] vital records" to find the office's website.

If you don't have a passport and need one, that process takes even longer. A new passport takes four to six weeks by mail or one to two weeks if you pay for expedited service. If you need your Real ID before your passport arrives, bring your birth certificate instead and use that as your citizenship proof.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. The DMV requires an original or a certified copy issued by the county or state vital records office. A photocopy you made yourself will not be accepted. Order a certified copy from the vital records office in the county where you were born.

What if my name on my documents doesn't match?

Bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If your birth certificate shows one name and your current ID shows another, bring both documents plus the proof of the change so the DMV can see the chain of names.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You don't need to bring the physical card, but you will need to provide your Social Security number. Write it down or memorize it before you go. The DMV will verify it with the Social Security Administration.

Can I use a lease if I'm not on it?

No. The lease or utility bill must show your name and your current address. If you live with someone else and are not on the lease, bring a utility bill in your name, a bank statement, or another document that shows both your name and the address.

What if I'm a permanent resident but not a citizen?

Bring your green card as proof of legal residency. Some states issue Real ID to green card holders, and some do not. Check your state's DMV website to confirm that you can get a Real ID with your immigration status before you gather your documents.