Your passport alone is not enough to get a Real ID, but it can count as one of the documents you need

A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. To get one, you must show your state's DMV multiple documents that prove your identity, citizenship, and residence. Your passport proves your identity and citizenship, which covers two of those three requirements. However, you will still need to bring a separate document showing your current address — your passport does not do that.

The documents you bring depend on which state you live in, because each state's DMV sets its own list of acceptable papers. But every state accepts a valid U.S. passport as proof of both identity and citizenship. That means if you have a passport, you have already cleared the hardest part of the document check.

Key Takeaways

  • Your passport satisfies the identity and citizenship requirements for a Real ID, so you will not need a birth certificate if you bring it.
  • You must still bring a separate document showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
  • Each state's DMV accepts a passport, but the address document rules vary by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go.
  • Your passport must be valid (not expired) to count as proof of citizenship for a Real ID.

What documents you need to bring along with your passport

When you go to your state's DMV with your passport, you will also need to bring proof of your current address. This is the one document your passport cannot provide. Acceptable address documents usually include a recent utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government letter with your name and address on it. Most states want the document to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days.

You will also need to bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or a W-2 form. Some states ask for this at the counter; others ask you to provide it on the process form before you arrive. Check your state's DMV website to see what they require.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card if you have one. If you are renewing rather than getting your first Real ID, this step is usually required. If you are getting your first ID, you may not have one to bring, and that is fine — your passport will cover the identity requirement.

How to find out what your specific state requires

Every state's DMV has its own rules about which address documents it accepts and how recent they must be. The fastest way to find the exact list is to go to your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "REAL ID requirements." Most state DMV sites have a page that lists every acceptable document with the date range.

If you cannot find the list online, call your state's DMV customer service line. They can tell you in a few minutes whether the documents you have at home will work, and you can avoid a wasted trip. Many states also let you upload photos of your documents before you visit, so the DMV can flag any problems ahead of time.

Whether your passport has to be valid or can be expired

Your passport must be valid — not expired — to count as proof of citizenship for a Real ID. If your passport has expired, you can still use it to renew your passport itself, but the DMV will not accept an expired passport as proof of citizenship for a Real ID process.

If your passport is expired, you have two options. You can renew your passport through the State Department first, then bring the new one to the DMV. Or you can bring a different citizenship document to the DMV instead, such as your birth certificate, naturalization papers, or a Certificate of Citizenship. Your state's DMV website will list all the citizenship documents it accepts.

What happens if you do not have a passport

If you do not have a passport, you can use other documents instead. A birth certificate is the most common alternative. You can also use a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Each state's DMV accepts all of these, though some may ask you to bring the original document rather than a copy.

A passport is actually easier to bring than a birth certificate in some ways, because it is smaller, harder to lose, and you probably already have it with you. But if you do not have a passport and do not plan to get one, you do not need one for a Real ID. Your birth certificate will work just as well.

The difference between a Real ID and a passport for federal purposes

A Real ID driver's license and a passport both work for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. However, they are not the same thing. A Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards. A passport is a federal document issued by the State Department that proves citizenship and allows you to travel internationally.

You do not need both. If you have a valid passport, you can use it to board a domestic flight instead of a Real ID. But if you want a driver's license for driving, you will need to get a Real ID version of it. Many people have both because they drive and also travel internationally, but you are not required to have a Real ID if you have a passport.

how the process works for a Real ID at your DMV

Go to your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID section. read the process form if your state offers it online, or plan to fill one out at the DMV counter. Bring your passport, your address document, your Social Security number or card, and your current driver's license if you have one.

Some states let you make an appointment online; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If you can book an appointment, do it — it usually cuts your wait time in half. When you arrive, tell the counter staff that you are explore for a Real ID. They will check your documents, take a new photo, and collect your fee. Real ID fees vary by state, usually between $20 and $50 for a driver's license renewal.

You will receive your Real ID in the mail within two to four weeks. Your state will send you a notice if there is a problem with your process, so check your mail during that time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired passport to get a Real ID?

No. Your passport must be valid to count as proof of citizenship. If your passport is expired, bring a birth certificate or other citizenship document instead, or renew your passport first through the State Department.

Do I need to bring the original passport or can I bring a copy?

Most states accept a copy of your passport, but call your DMV to confirm before you go. Some states want to see the original to verify the security features. Bringing the original is safer anyway, since a copy might be rejected and you will have wasted a trip.

What if my passport and my address document have different names on them?

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Your DMV will use this to verify that both documents belong to you.

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

No. A Real ID requires proof of U.S. citizenship. If you are a lawful permanent resident or have a visa, you can get a standard driver's license in most states, but not a Real ID. Check your state's DMV website for non-citizen ID options.

How long does it take to get a Real ID if I already have a passport?

The DMV processing usually takes two to four weeks from the day you explore. The time does not change based on which documents you bring — it depends on your state's DMV workload. You can use your old driver's license to drive while you wait for your Real ID to arrive.