Bring These Documents to Your Real ID Appointment

You will need to bring one document that proves your identity, one that proves where you live, and one that proves your Social Security number. You will also bring your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents that work vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. Bring originals, not copies — the DMV staff will examine them in person and return them to you.

Most people can walk in with what they already have at home. The documents do not need to be new or recently issued. A utility bill from six months ago works just as well as one from last week, as long as your name and address are on it.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, plus one proof of identity document such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID.
  • Bring one proof of address document such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address on it.
  • Bring one Social Security proof document such as your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return.
  • Bring original documents only — the DMV will not accept copies, and staff will return originals to you after your appointment.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the specific documents it accepts, because some states have slightly different rules about which documents count.

Proof of Identity Documents That Work

A proof of identity document shows who you are. Your current driver's license or state ID card counts as your identity document, so you may not need a second one. If your state requires a separate identity document, or if you want to bring one anyway, these are the most common options: a U.S. passport, a passport card, a certified birth certificate, a military ID card, a tribal ID card, or a permanent resident card (green card).

The birth certificate must be certified — a photocopy or a document you printed from a website will not work. You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. If you have a passport, bring that instead; it is faster and the DMV accepts it everywhere.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your permanent resident card or your visa along with your passport. Your state's DMV website will tell you which documents it accepts for non-citizens, because the rules differ.

Proof of Address Documents That Work

A proof of address document shows where you live right now. It must have your name and your current street address on it. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the easiest option. A lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, a credit card statement, or a property tax bill also work. The document does not have to be recent — most states accept documents from the past 12 months, and some accept older ones.

If you have moved recently and your name is not yet on a utility bill or lease, bring a signed letter from your landlord or a property manager on their letterhead, stating your name, your address, and the move-in date. Some states also accept a voter registration card or a vehicle registration as proof of address.

Do not bring a cell phone bill or a credit card bill with a P.O. box address. These do not count as proof of residence in most states. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list of what it accepts.

Proof of Social Security Number Documents That Work

A proof of Social Security number document shows the government that you are who you say you are. The easiest option is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have it or cannot find it, bring one of these instead: a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a Social Security statement, or a paystub with your full Social Security number on it.

Your Social Security card does not have to be in perfect condition. A worn card, a faded card, or a card with a small tear will work. If your card is lost or stolen, you can still bring a tax document or paystub instead — you do not have to replace the card before your Real ID appointment.

Your Current License or ID Card

Bring the driver's license or state ID card you have right now, even if it is expired. The DMV needs to see it to confirm your identity and to pull up your existing record. If you have lost your current license, tell the DMV staff when you arrive — they will help you through the process and may charge an extra fee for a replacement.

If you are explore for a Real ID for the first time and have never had a driver's license or state ID in this state, you do not have a current card to bring. Bring your proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of Social Security number instead, and let the staff know you are a new applicant.

Documents You May Need in Special Situations

If your name has changed since your current license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that shows the change. A marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or a court order for legal name change will work. The document must be certified or an official copy from the court or vital records office.

If you are explore for a REAL ID for the first time and your current license is not a REAL ID, the staff will explain what you need. Some states issue REAL ID licenses automatically when you renew; others require you to request it. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether you need to do anything special or if your appointment will handle it.

If you are under 18, check whether your state requires a parent or guardian to come with you. Most states do. Bring the parent's or guardian's ID as well.

How to Know What Your State Accepts

Every state's DMV website has a page listing the exact documents it accepts for Real ID. The categories are the same — identity, address, and Social Security — but some states have slightly different rules about which specific documents count. For example, some states accept a utility bill from any company; others only accept bills from certain providers. Some states accept a lease; others do not.

Before your appointment, visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "Real ID requirements." Print the list or take a photo of it on your phone. Bring it with you if you want to double-check with the staff before you hand over your documents.

If you cannot find the list online or have questions about a specific document, call your state's DMV customer service line. They can tell you whether a document will work before you make the trip to the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring copies of my documents instead of originals?

No. The DMV must see and examine original documents. The staff will look at them in person to check for security features and signs of tampering, then return them to you. Copies are not accepted.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

Bring a W-2 form, a tax return, a 1099 form, a paystub, or a Social Security statement instead. Any of these will work as proof of your Social Security number. You do not have to replace your card before your appointment.

Do my documents have to be current, or can they be old?

Your proof of address document should be from the past 12 months in most states, though some accept older ones. Your identity and Social Security documents can be older. Check your state's DMV website for the exact rules, or call ahead to ask about a specific document.

What if my address on my documents does not match my current address?

Bring a proof of address document that shows your current address, such as a recent utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address in the system. Your old license or ID card does not have to match.

Can I bring my documents in a language other than English?

If your document is in another language, bring an official English translation along with the original. A certified translation from a translator or a government office works. Some documents, like a passport, do not need translation.