The documents you need depend on which type of ID you want

An ID card requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal presence — but which documents work varies by state and by the type of ID. A standard state ID card, a Real ID-compliant card, and a Real ID driver's license each have different requirements. The state where you live sets the rules, so you will need to check your state's DMV website for the exact list.

Most states accept a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers as proof of citizenship. For residency, they typically want a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address — usually dated within the last 60 days. For identity, a Social Security card, previous ID, or school records often work, though the rules shift by state.

If you do not have one of the standard documents, many states have a list of alternatives. Some accept tribal IDs, military discharge papers, or court documents. The DMV website for your state will show you what counts and what does not.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal presence.
  • Each state sets its own rules about which documents it accepts, so check your state DMV website before you go to the office.
  • Documents proving residency usually must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address.
  • If you lack standard documents, most states offer a list of alternatives that the DMV will accept instead.

Proof of identity documents that most states accept

A birth certificate is the most common proof of identity. It shows your name, date of birth, and place of birth. Most states accept a certified copy — the kind you order from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born, not a photocopy you make yourself.

A U.S. passport or passport card also works in every state. A Social Security card counts in some states but not others — check your state's list. A previous driver's license or ID card from another state usually works if it is still valid or expired less than a certain number of years ago, depending on your state.

School records, military discharge papers (DD-214), and tribal IDs are accepted in many states. Some states also accept a consular ID card if you are a foreign national. The DMV website will tell you which of these your state recognizes.

Proof of residency: what documents show your current address

A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the fastest way to prove you live where you say you do. It must show your current address and usually must be dated within the last 60 days. A phone bill works in some states but not all.

A lease or rental agreement with your signature and your landlord's signature counts in most states. A mortgage statement or property tax bill works if you own your home. Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance documents (auto, home, or renter's) are accepted in many states if they show your address and are recent.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease, a letter from a government agency, a court document with your address, or a pay stub from your employer may work. Some states accept a notarized letter from someone who lives with you, stating that you live at that address. Again, check your state's DMV website for the full list.

Proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States

A U.S. birth certificate is the standard proof of citizenship. It must be a certified copy from the vital records office, not a photocopy. If you were born outside the U.S., a naturalization certificate or Certificate of Citizenship shows you are a U.S. citizen.

A valid U.S. passport or passport card proves citizenship. A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-545) works if you were born to a U.S. citizen parent outside the country. If you are not a citizen but have legal status to be in the U.S., you may be able to use a green card, employment authorization document (EAD), or visa.

Some states have different rules for non-citizens. A few states issue ID cards to people without proof of legal presence, while others do not. Your state DMV website will say whether you can get an ID card and what documents you need if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Real ID requirements if you need to fly or enter federal buildings

A Real ID-compliant card meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It requires the same three categories of documents — identity, residency, and citizenship — but the rules are stricter about which documents count. Not all documents that work for a standard state ID work for Real ID.

For example, some states do not accept a Social Security card alone as proof of identity for Real ID, even though they accept it for a standard ID. A birth certificate, passport, or military ID usually works for both. Check your state DMV website for the Real ID document list, which is often separate from the standard ID list.

Real ID cards cost more than standard ID cards in most states — usually between $10 and $30 extra. You will need to bring the same documents in person to the DMV office. The card itself looks similar to a standard ID but has a star in the upper right corner.

What to bring to the DMV office and how to prepare

Bring originals or certified copies of your documents, not photocopies. The DMV will not accept a photocopy of a birth certificate or passport. If you have a certified copy from the vital records office, that is what you need.

Bring your Social Security number or the card itself. Bring proof of your current address — the utility bill or lease — even if it is not perfect. If the name on your residency document does not match the name on your identity document (for example, if you changed your name after marriage), bring a court order or marriage certificate showing the change.

Bring a completed process form. Most states let you read and fill it out at home before you go to the DMV, which speeds up the process. Some states require you to fill it out at the office. Check your state DMV website to see which applies.

What happens if you do not have standard documents

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the county where you were born. This usually takes one to four weeks and costs between $10 and $30. If you were born outside the U.S., you may need to contact the vital records office in that country or explore for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad through the State Department.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease, some states accept alternative residency documents. A letter from a shelter, a court document, a pay stub, or a letter from a government agency may work. A few states allow a notarized statement from someone who can vouch that you live at that address.

If you have lost all your documents or they were destroyed, the DMV can sometimes work with you using secondary documents — school records, medical records, or affidavits from people who know you. Call your state DMV office to ask what options exist in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. The DMV requires a certified copy from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. A certified copy has an official seal and signature. A photocopy you make yourself will not work.

How long does it take to get a birth certificate if I do not have one?

Most vital records offices process orders in one to four weeks. You can usually order online, by mail, or in person. Expedited service costs more but may take three to five business days. Check the vital records office website for your state or county.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current name?

Bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the legal name change. The DMV will use the name on your birth certificate as your legal name unless you show proof of a change. If you have not legally changed your name, the ID will show the name on your birth certificate.

Do I need a Real ID card or can I get a standard ID card?

You can get either one. A standard ID card works for most purposes. You need Real ID only if you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings after the federal important date. Check the TSA website to see the current important date for your state.

Can I get an ID card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

It depends on your state. Some states issue ID cards to people with legal status (green card, visa, work permit). Other states issue ID cards to anyone who can prove residency, regardless of citizenship status. Check your state DMV website to see the rules where you live.