You need your Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of residency — the exact documents vary by state

Every state requires the same three categories of proof, but which documents count in each category differs. Most states accept a passport, birth certificate, or military ID as proof of identity. For residency, a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days usually works. Your Social Security number is required but you do not need to bring a card — you can type it in at the DMV. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states have added requirements or changed which documents they accept.

You will also need to bring your old license if you still have it, or a police report if it was stolen. If your name has changed since your last license, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original documents or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of residency (utility bill or lease from the last 60 days), and your Social Security number.
  • Each state's DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts, and these lists change — verify before your appointment.
  • If your name has changed, bring the original document that proves it, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report instead of the old license itself.
  • Certified copies of documents are accepted, but photocopies are not.

Proof of identity documents that most states accept

A U.S. passport is the easiest proof of identity because it is accepted in all 50 states and requires no additional paperwork. A birth certificate works in most states but must be an original or certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born — hospital-issued copies are not accepted. A military ID, whether active or retired, is accepted nationwide.

Some states also accept a passport card, a permanent resident card (green card), a tribal ID, or a certificate of naturalization. A few states accept a school or work ID, but only if it has a photo and an expiration date. Your old driver's license does not count as proof of identity for a replacement — the DMV needs a document issued by a different agency.

Proof of residency: what documents show you live in the state

A utility bill in your name from the last 60 days is the most straightforward proof. Electricity, gas, water, internet, or phone bills all count. A lease or mortgage statement also works, as long as it is current. Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance documents (auto, home, or renter's) are accepted in most states if they show your current address and are dated within the last 60 days.

Government mail counts in some states — a tax return, voter registration card, or letter from a government agency with your address. A few states accept a property tax bill or a vehicle registration. Do not bring a piece of mail with your address written on it by hand, or a bill addressed to "current resident" — the DMV needs a document that proves you received it at that address.

What to bring if your name has changed

A marriage certificate is the document most people need. It must be an original or certified copy from the county clerk's office where you were married. A divorce decree or dissolution order works the same way — get it from the court that issued it. If you changed your name by court order, bring the certified order itself.

If you were born outside the United States and your name appears differently on your birth certificate than on your current documents, bring both the original birth certificate and the document showing your current legal name. Some states require a certified translation if the birth certificate is in another language.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

If you still have your old license, bring it. If it was stolen or lost, bring a police report instead. You do not need to file a report just to replace a lost license — many states let you replace it without one — but if your license was stolen, filing a report protects you in case someone uses it fraudulently. Get the report number from the police department and bring it to the DMV.

If you lost your license and do not have a police report, most DMVs will still replace it, but you may be asked to sign a statement saying you lost it. A few states require the police report, so check your state's rules before you go.

Social Security number and other information you will need

You must provide your Social Security number, but you do not need to bring your Social Security card. You can type the number in at the DMV. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration saying you are not may be able to access for one.

You will also need to know your current address, your date of birth, and whether you want to renew any organ donor status or update your voter registration. Some states let you change these during your replacement appointment. Bring your current phone number and email address if you want the DMV to contact you about your new license.

How to verify what your state requires before you go

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "replace driver's license" or "duplicate license." The page will list the exact documents your state accepts. Some states have a checklist you can print and bring with you. If the website does not make it clear, call your local DMV office — they can tell you in a few minutes whether your documents will work.

A few states require an appointment; others work on a walk-in basis. Check whether your state uses an online appointment system and whether there is a wait time at your local office. Some DMVs are faster than others, and knowing the wait time helps you plan when to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original birth certificate or a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. A certified copy has an official seal and signature from the vital records office. Hospital-issued copies and photocopies are not accepted.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number. If you are a noncitizen, some states accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Check your state's DMV website to see what it accepts.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on your state. Some states require appointments and let you book online; others accept walk-ins. Check your state's DMV website to see the policy for your local office. Even if walk-ins are allowed, there may be a wait, so calling ahead to check the current wait time is worth your time.

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

Yes, in most states. A passport card is a valid proof of identity and is accepted the same way as a full passport. It is smaller and easier to carry, but it works for DMV purposes.

What if my address on my utility bill does not match my ID?

Bring both documents anyway and explain the situation to the DMV clerk. If you recently moved, bring the utility bill from your new address and your old ID. If the addresses do not match because of a clerical error, the DMV can usually sort it out with a phone call to the utility company.