Documents you must bring to pass the written test

You need two things to sit for the written knowledge test: a valid form of identification and proof that you live in your state. Most states will not let you take the test without both, even if you have studied and are ready to answer the questions.

The identification must be current and show your photo and date of birth. A passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. A school ID or library card does not. If your driver's license is not suspended or revoked, you can use that too — you are allowed to retake the test even if you already hold a license.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. It usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state. A few states accept a recent piece of mail from a government agency instead. Call your local DMV or check your state's website to confirm what counts as proof in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a current photo ID such as a passport, military ID, or valid driver's license to prove who you are.
  • Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease, dated within the last 60 days in most states.
  • Without both documents, the DMV will not let you sit for the test, even if you are prepared to take it.
  • Call your state DMV or visit its website before you go, because some states accept different documents than others.
  • Bring the originals, not copies — most DMV locations will not accept photocopies of either document.

What counts as valid identification

A valid photo ID means the document is not expired and shows your face and birth date. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, state ID card, or tribal ID all meet this standard. If you hold a current driver's license from your state or another state, that works as well.

An expired ID is usually rejected, even if it expired only recently. If your ID expired more than a few months ago, get a replacement before you go to the DMV. Some states will accept an ID that expired within the last year if you also bring a second form of ID, but do not count on it — call ahead to ask.

School IDs, work badges, library cards, and credit cards do not count, even if they have your photo on them. The DMV is looking for government-issued identification because it has been verified by a government body.

What counts as proof of address

Proof of address means a document that shows 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 or credit card statement all work. Most states require the document to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days.

A few states accept mail from a government agency, such as a tax notice, voter registration card, or court document. Some also accept a letter from your landlord or a notarized statement if you are living with someone else and cannot get a bill in your name. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list of what is accepted where you live.

A printed bank statement or utility bill from your online account works just as well as a paper one you received in the mail. What matters is that it shows your current address and is recent enough.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, or proof of citizenship to take the written test. You will need those documents later if you pass the test and move on to the road test and final license issuance, but they are not required for the knowledge test itself.

You do not need to bring your learner's permit, though it does not hurt to have it with you. Some states require a learner's permit before you can take the written test, but if you already have one, the DMV already has your information on file.

You do not need to bring study materials, notes, or a calculator into the testing room. The DMV will not allow these items during the test. You also do not need to bring money unless you are paying a test fee in cash — many DMV locations now accept cards only.

What to do if you do not have the right documents

If your ID is expired or you do not have proof of address, do not go to the DMV yet. Getting a replacement ID or gathering a recent bill will take less time than making a wasted trip.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask a family member or roommate if you can use theirs — some states allow this if you bring a signed letter from that person saying you live there. If that is not possible, contact your state DMV to ask what other documents they will accept. Some will take a notarized affidavit of residency, a letter from a shelter or social services agency, or a recent piece of mail from a government office.

If your ID is expired and you cannot get a replacement before your test date, call the DMV and ask whether they will accept an expired ID along with a second form of identification. A few states do this, but most do not.

Bring originals, not copies

The DMV will not accept photocopies, scans, or photos of your documents. You must bring the original ID and the original proof of address. If you are worried about losing important documents, make copies after your test, but bring the real ones to the DMV.

If your proof of address is a digital statement from a bank or utility company, print it out before you go. The DMV staff will accept a printed statement, but they will not accept a document shown only on your phone or tablet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A U.S. passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID and is accepted at all DMV locations. It works the same way as a full passport for the written test.

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

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address. The DMV will use the proof of address document to register you at your new location. You will need to update your ID later, but that does not stop you from taking the written test now.

Can I use a bank statement from my phone instead of printing it?

No. The DMV requires a printed or original document. Take a screenshot or read the statement and print it before you go. A digital image on your phone will not be accepted.

Do I need to bring my Social Security number written down?

No. You will provide your Social Security number verbally or on a form at the DMV. You do not need to bring it written down. If you do not know your number, contact the Social Security Administration before your test date.

What if I lost my ID and do not have time to replace it before my test?

Call your state DMV and explain your situation. Some will reschedule your test for free if you cannot get an ID in time. Others may allow you to bring a second form of ID plus a notarized statement from someone who can vouch for your identity, though this is rare. Do not show up without valid ID — you will be turned away.