The Documents You'll Need

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. Most states accept a birth certificate or passport as identity proof. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return. For your address, bring a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

The exact documents your state accepts may differ slightly. Some states take a driver's license as proof of identity; others do not. Before you go to the DMV, check your state's DMV website to see the specific list they accept. This saves a trip if you don't have the right paperwork.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill or lease).
  • Your address proof must be dated within the last 60 days, so an old bill will not work.
  • Each state's DMV sets its own list of acceptable documents, so check your state's website before you visit.
  • If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to bring proof of citizenship or lawful status.

Proof of Identity

A birth certificate is the most common form of identity proof. It must be an official copy with a raised seal or security features—a photocopy will not work. If you don't have a birth certificate, a valid passport works just as well. Some states also accept a foreign passport if you are a lawful permanent resident or citizen.

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued—through marriage, divorce, or court order—bring the document that shows the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is usually required. Without it, the name on your birth certificate must match the name on your process.

Proof of Your Social Security Number

Your Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you don't have it, bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a recent tax return showing your full Social Security number. Some states also accept a Social Security Administration letter or a benefit statement from Social Security.

The document must show your full nine-digit Social Security number. A partial number or a letter that only confirms you have a number is not enough. If you've lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV visit, but it's not required—the other documents work fine.

Proof of Your Current Address

A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement all work as address proof. The document must show your name and your current address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. An electric, gas, water, or internet bill is the easiest option. If you rent, your lease works. If you own your home, a property tax bill or mortgage statement works.

If you've recently moved and don't have a bill in your new name yet, some states accept a letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation letter. Check your state's DMV website to see what alternatives they accept. A document older than 60 days will be rejected, so don't bring last year's bill.

Proof of Citizenship or Lawful Status (If You Were Born Outside the U.S.)

If you were born outside the United States, you must bring proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport is the easiest proof. If you don't have a passport, bring your Certificate of Naturalization (if you became a citizen through naturalization) or your Permanent Resident Card (green card).

Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not yet a citizen but have lawful status, your green card or employment authorization document (EAD) will work. Check your state's specific list, because some states have additional requirements for non-citizens.

What to Bring to the DMV

Bring the original documents, not photocopies. The DMV staff will examine them to confirm they are real. Bring all the documents listed above, even if you think one might not be needed—it's better to have extras than to make a second trip.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. If you're renewing a Real ID, bring your current Real ID card. If you're explore for the first time, bring any expired ID you have. The DMV may also ask for your signature, so be ready to sign in front of staff.

When Your Documents Don't Match

If your name appears differently on different documents—for example, your birth certificate says "Mary Jane Smith" but your Social Security card says "Mary J. Smith"—bring a document that explains the difference. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing a legal name change will clear this up. The DMV needs to confirm that all the documents belong to the same person.

If you've changed your name and don't have the legal document proving it, you may need to get one before the DMV will issue your Real ID. Some states allow you to bring a letter from a government agency confirming the name change, but this varies. Call your state DMV ahead of time if you think your documents might not match perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring digital copies of my documents on my phone?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. Digital photos or PDFs on your phone will not work. You must bring the physical documents themselves.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

A valid passport works as proof of identity instead. If you don't have either, you can order a birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This takes time, so plan ahead.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a tax return?

No. A recent tax return showing your full Social Security number is enough. You don't need to bring the card itself, though it's fine if you do.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

It will not work. You need a document dated within the last 60 days. If you've just moved, contact your utility company or landlord and ask for a recent statement or letter confirming your address.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DMV with your documents. The staff need to see you and verify your identity before they issue your Real ID.