The Documents Real ID Requires
To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You will also need to bring your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the federal government sets the core requirements, so most states follow the same basic list.
You cannot explore for Real ID by mail in most states—you must appear in person at your state's DMV or equivalent agency. Bring originals or certified copies of your documents; photocopies alone will not work. Some states allow you to upload documents before your appointment through their online portal, which can speed up the process when you arrive.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or passport card as proof of identity.
- Proof of your Social Security number can be your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return—a photo is not required.
- Your current address must be verified with a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
- You must appear in person at your state DMV with your current driver's license or ID card and pay the renewal or replacement fee.
- Processing times range from same-day to several weeks depending on your state and whether documents are missing or unclear.
Proof of Identity Documents
Your primary identity document must be an original or certified copy. The federal government accepts a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, a Tribal ID card, or a permanent resident card (green card). If you were born outside the U.S., your birth certificate must include a raised seal or be certified by the vital records office that issued it.
A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work—the DMV needs the original or a certified copy ordered directly from your state's vital records office. If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order one online through your state's vital records website or by mail. This step alone can take one to three weeks, so order early if you know you will need it.
If you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, you can bring that instead of a birth certificate. Passports are already certified by the federal government, so no additional proof of identity is needed if you use one.
Proof of Social Security Number
You need to show a document that displays your Social Security number. The easiest option is your original Social Security card. If you have lost it or never received one, you can bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement that shows your full Social Security number. The document does not need to be recent—a tax return from several years ago will work.
If you do not have any of these documents, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV. This takes about two weeks. You will need to bring your proof of identity and proof of address to the Social Security office, so you may want to gather those documents first.
Proof of Current Address
Your address must be verified with a document dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowners or renters insurance policy, or government mail such as a tax notice or voter registration card. The document must show your name and current address.
If you have recently moved and your utility bill has not arrived yet, a lease signed within the last 60 days will work. If you live with family or in a shared space and the utility bill is in someone else's name, ask the account holder for a letter on their letterhead confirming you live there, along with a copy of the bill. Some states accept this; others do not, so check your state DMV's website first.
A credit card statement, bank statement, or insurance policy will work only if it shows your current address and was issued within the last 60 days. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof of address.
Your Current Driver's License or ID Card
Bring the driver's license or state ID card you currently hold, even if it is expired. The DMV needs to see it to process your Real ID upgrade. If your license or ID is lost or stolen, you will need to report it and get a replacement before you can upgrade to Real ID.
If you are renewing your license at the same time you upgrade to Real ID, you will pay one combined fee rather than two separate fees. Check your state's DMV website to see the current cost—Real ID fees range from about $15 to $30 depending on the state, and this is added to your regular renewal fee.
Documents You Do Not Need
You do not need a passport book if you have a passport card, and you do not need both. You do not need to bring your Social Security card if you have a W-2 or tax return. You do not need a notarized letter or affidavit unless your state specifically requires one for a missing document.
You do not need to bring documents proving your name change if you have already updated your driver's license or ID card to reflect your current name. The DMV already has that information on file. If your name on your birth certificate does not match your current name, bring the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order—but only if your driver's license has not yet been updated to your current name.
What to Do If You Are Missing a Document
If you do not have your birth certificate, order a certified copy from your state's vital records office before your DMV appointment. Most states allow you to order online and receive the copy by mail within one to three weeks. Some states offer expedited service for an extra fee.
If you do not have proof of your Social Security number, request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration or gather a W-2, tax return, or pay stub. If you do not have proof of your current address, ask your landlord, utility company, or mortgage lender for a document or letter dated within the last 60 days.
Do not go to the DMV without all required documents. If any document is missing or unclear, the DMV will deny your Real ID process and you will have to return another day. Check your state's DMV website before you go to confirm which documents are accepted in your state—a few states have slightly different rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a digital copy or photo of my documents?
Most states require originals or certified copies in person at the DMV. Some states allow you to upload digital copies to their online portal before your appointment, which the DMV will verify when you arrive. Check your state's website to see if this option is available.
What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current driver's license?
Bring the document that shows your name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use this to confirm the name change is legal. Your driver's license does not need to be updated yet; the DMV can process the Real ID with the documentation you provide.
Do I need to bring my passport if I have a birth certificate?
No. Bring either your passport or your birth certificate, not both. A passport is already certified by the federal government, so it is the fastest option if you have one. A birth certificate works just as well if it is an original or certified copy.
How long does it take to get a Real ID after I submit my documents?
Processing times vary by state. Some states issue Real ID the same day; others take one to four weeks. Check your state DMV's website for current wait times. You will receive your new card by mail unless your state offers same-day service.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You cannot get a Real ID without a Social Security number. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you can get a standard state ID card instead, which does not require one. Check your state's DMV website for the requirements for a standard ID.