What Documents You Need to Bring for a Real ID

The Documents You Must Bring

To get a Real ID, you need to bring one document that proves your identity, one that proves your Social Security number, and one that proves where you live. You also need your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

You cannot use a photocopy, fax, or digital image on your phone — you must bring the original document or a certified copy. The DMV staff will look at the document in person, verify it is genuine, and return it to you. Some states keep a copy on file; others do not. Either way, you leave with your original.

If your name has changed since you got your current ID — through marriage, divorce, court order, or other legal change — you must bring proof of that change as well. Without it, your Real ID will be issued under your old name, which defeats the purpose for travel.

Key Takeaways

You need four categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of current address, and your current driver's license or ID card.
Originals or certified copies only — photocopies and phone images are not accepted, and the DMV will return your documents to you after verification.
If your name has changed since your current ID was issued, bring the legal document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Acceptable documents differ by state, so check your state DMV website before your appointment to confirm which specific documents they accept.
Expired documents are usually accepted for Real ID purposes as long as they are not more than a few years old; check your state's rules on age limits.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your proof of identity must be a government-issued document with your photograph and signature. A U.S. passport, passport card, or passport book is the strongest option and is accepted in every state. If you do not have a passport, a military ID, a state ID card, or a driver's license from another state all work.

Some states also accept a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a permanent resident card (green card), or a foreign passport paired with a visa or travel document. A few states accept a commercial driver's license (CDL) from another state. Do not bring a school ID, work badge, or library card — these are not government-issued photo IDs.

If your current document is expired, most states will still accept it for Real ID purposes. However, the expiration date matters: some states accept documents expired up to five years ago, while others have shorter windows. Check your state DMV website to confirm the age limit before you go.

Proof of Social Security Number

You must bring an original Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from the Social Security Administration. The Social Security card is the simplest option if you have it. If you have lost your card, a W-2 or 1099 from your employer will work just as well.

A Social Security statement is a document the Social Security Administration mails to you or that you can print from your online account at ssa.gov. It shows your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Some states also accept a tax return (Form 1040) or a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or the Veterans Administration.

You cannot use a bank statement, credit card statement, or a document you created yourself. The document must come from a government agency or your employer. If you do not have any of these documents, you will need to contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or statement before your DMV appointment.

Proof of Current Address

You need one document showing your current name and address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or mortgage statement, or a property tax bill all work. 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 timeline.

Other acceptable documents include a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, a government benefit statement (such as unemployment or SNAP), or a vehicle registration. Some states accept a cell phone bill or a rental agreement. A few states also accept a letter from a government agency, a school, or a court that shows your name and address.

You cannot use a post office change-of-address form, a utility bill in someone else's name, or a document you printed from the internet. The document must be an original or official copy. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter confirming your address, or bring a lease with a move-in date within the last 60 days.

Your Current Driver's License or State ID Card

Bring the driver's license or state ID card you currently hold, even if it is expired. The DMV needs to see it to verify your identity and to link your Real ID to your existing record in their system. If you have lost your current license, you will need to report it lost and may need to pay a replacement fee before you can get a Real ID.

If your current license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a Real ID until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact your state DMV to check the status of your license before you schedule an appointment. Some states allow you to check this online; others require a phone call.

Name Change Documents

If your name has changed since your current ID was issued, bring the legal document that proves the change. A certified copy of a marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change all work. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy is not accepted.

If you were married and took your spouse's name, bring the marriage certificate. If you were divorced and changed your name back, bring the divorce decree. If you changed your name through a court petition, bring the court order. Some states also accept an amended birth certificate if you have one.

Without proof of a name change, your Real ID will be issued under the name on your current driver's license, even if you have been using a different name. This can cause problems at airport security or when crossing borders, because your Real ID will not match your legal name. If you have changed your name but do not have the original document, contact the court or vital records office that issued it and request a certified copy before your appointment.

What Happens If You Are Missing a Document

If you arrive at the DMV without one of the required documents, you will not be able to get a Real ID that day. The DMV cannot issue a Real ID without all four categories of proof. You will need to go home, find or obtain the missing document, and schedule another appointment.

If you cannot find a document, you can request a replacement. A replacement Social Security card takes one to two weeks and can be ordered online at ssa.gov or in person at a Social Security office. A replacement birth certificate or marriage certificate takes longer — usually two to four weeks — and must be ordered from the vital records office in the state or county where the event occurred. A replacement driver's license from another state requires contacting that state's DMV.

Plan ahead: if you know you are missing a document, order the replacement now rather than waiting until your DMV appointment is scheduled. This gives you time to receive it and reschedule without delay.

State-by-State Variations in Accepted Documents

While the four categories of documents are required in every state, the specific documents accepted within each category vary. For example, some states accept a tribal ID card as proof of identity, while others do not. Some states accept a cell phone bill as proof of address, while others require a utility bill or mortgage statement.

Before your appointment, visit your state DMV website and look for the Real ID document checklist or requirements page. This page will list the exact documents your state accepts. If you cannot find it online, call your state DMV and ask which documents they accept in each category. This takes five minutes and prevents a wasted trip.

A few states also have different rules for people who are explore for a Real ID for the first time versus people who are renewing an existing Real ID. Check whether your situation falls into either category and whether different documents are needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents on my phone instead of bringing the originals?

No. The DMV must see the original document or a certified copy in person. They need to verify that the document is genuine and has not been altered. A photo on your phone cannot be verified. Bring the physical documents with you.

My passport is expired. Can I still use it as proof of identity for a Real ID?

Yes, in most states. An expired passport is still accepted as proof of identity for Real ID purposes. However, check your state DMV website to confirm the age limit — some states have a cutoff for how long ago a document can have expired.

What if I do not have a Social Security card and cannot find my W-2 or 1099?

You can request a Social Security statement from the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You can also visit a local Social Security office in person. The statement shows your Social Security number and counts as proof for Real ID purposes.

Do I need to bring my birth certificate to get a Real ID?

No. A birth certificate is not required for Real ID. You need proof of identity (such as a passport or current driver's license), proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and your current ID card. A birth certificate is only needed if your name has changed since your current ID was issued.

Can I bring a utility bill that is in my roommate's name if I live at that address?

No. The proof of address must show your name and your current address. A bill in someone else's name does not prove that you live there. If you have recently moved and do not have a bill in your name yet, bring a lease agreement or ask your landlord for a letter confirming your address and move-in date.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.