Bring These Documents to the DMV

When you go to the Hillsboro DMV office to get your learner's permit, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof that you live in Oregon, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The DMV will not issue a permit without these three things. You do not need to bring originals of everything — some documents can be copies — but you do need to know which ones the DMV will accept.

The Hillsboro office is located at 1840 NE 25th Avenue, Hillsboro, OR 97124. You can call ahead at the main DMV line to confirm their current hours, since office hours sometimes change. Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they stay together while you wait.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving who you are, one proving where you live in Oregon, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • A passport or state ID counts as proof of identity; a utility bill or lease counts as proof of residency.
  • Your Social Security card itself is the easiest proof, but a W-2 or tax return showing your number also works.
  • Bring the originals of documents that show your name and address together, because the DMV will not accept a copy of a lease or utility bill.
  • If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID as well.

Proof of Identity: What the DMV Accepts

The DMV needs one document that shows your full legal name and your photograph. A U.S. passport, a passport card, or a state ID from any state all work. If you do not have any of these yet, a certified birth certificate with a raised seal counts as proof of identity, though it does not have your photo. A school ID does not work by itself, but you can bring it along with your birth certificate.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy with the raised seal. If you have a Permanent Resident Card (green card) or a work visa, those also count as proof of identity. The document must show your full legal name exactly as you want it to appear on your permit.

Proof of Oregon Residency: Documents That Work

You need one document showing your current name and a current Oregon address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works if it is dated within the last 60 days. A lease or rental agreement with your name and the Oregon address also works, but the DMV will not accept a photocopy — you must bring the original. A mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance policy dated within the last 60 days also counts.

If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill or lease, bring a signed letter from them on their letterhead stating that you live at that address, along with a copy of their ID and a utility bill or lease showing their name and the address. The letter must include the address, your full name, and the date. Some DMV offices also accept a school enrollment letter or a letter from a homeless services provider if you are currently unhoused.

Proof of Your Social Security Number or ITIN

Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not have the card itself, the DMV will accept a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your number. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number, bring a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN, or bring a tax return that shows it.

The document does not have to be current — a W-2 from a previous year is fine. Make sure your full name on the document matches the name on your identity document as closely as possible. If there are small differences (like a middle initial), bring both documents so the DMV can see they are the same person.

What to Bring If You Are Under 18

If you are under 18, you must bring a parent or legal guardian with you to the DMV. They need to bring their own ID and sign the process in front of the DMV staff. Your parent or guardian does not need to bring proof of residency again if you are living at the same address — their ID is enough.

If your parents are divorced or separated, bring a custody order or court document showing who has legal custody. If you live with someone other than a parent (like a grandparent or aunt), bring a court order or a notarized letter from your parent giving that person permission to sign for you. The DMV staff can tell you exactly what they need if your situation is different from the standard arrangement.

Documents You Do Not Need to Bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card if you have another document showing your number. You do not need to bring a medical record, a school transcript, or a letter from your employer. You do not need to bring proof of insurance or proof that you have taken a driver's education course — those come later, after you pass the written test.

You do not need to bring cash to pay the fee if you plan to pay by card or check. The Hillsboro DMV accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, checks, and cash. Bring your checkbook or card if you prefer not to use cash.

What Happens After You Hand in Your Documents

The DMV staff will check your documents, make copies of them, and ask you to sign the process. They will take your photograph for the permit. Then you will sit for the written test, which covers Oregon traffic laws and road signs. The test has 35 questions, and you need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass.

If you pass the written test, you will receive your learner's permit the same day. If you do not pass, you can take the test again after waiting one day. You do not need to bring all your documents again for the second attempt — just bring your ID and come back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a copy of my utility bill or lease instead of the original?

No. The DMV requires the original lease or rental agreement and the original utility bill. Copies are not accepted for proof of residency. If you do not have the original, ask your landlord or utility company for a duplicate.

What if my name on my birth certificate is different from my current legal name?

Bring both your birth certificate and a court order or marriage certificate showing the name change. The DMV will use your current legal name on the permit. If you have changed your name but do not have a court order, ask the DMV staff what documents they need before your appointment.

Can I bring my school ID as my only proof of identity?

No. A school ID alone does not work. You need a passport, state ID, or certified birth certificate. You can bring your school ID along with your birth certificate to help the DMV confirm you are the same person, but one of the three main documents must be your primary proof.

What if I do not have a Social Security number yet?

You must have a Social Security number or ITIN to get a learner's permit in Oregon. If you do not have one, contact the Social Security Administration or the IRS before going to the DMV. The process can take several weeks, so start early.

Do I need to bring my parent's documents if I am under 18 and they are coming with me?

Your parent or guardian needs to bring their own ID so the DMV can verify who they are. They do not need to bring proof of residency if you live at the same address, but they do need to bring their driver's license or state ID.