What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

You need three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of where you live, and proof of your Social Security number

A Real ID requires you to bring three categories of documents to your state's driver's license office: one that proves who you are, one that proves where you live, and one that proves your Social Security number. You cannot get a Real ID by mail or online in most states — you must appear in person. The exact documents your state accepts vary, so check your state's DMV website before you go, because showing up with the wrong papers means a wasted trip.

Real ID is a federal standard for identification that lets you board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport. It is not a separate card — it replaces your regular driver's license or state ID. You do not have to get one unless you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal facility after the important date your state sets.

Key Takeaways

• You must bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or foreign travel document), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or tax return) to your state DMV office.
• Every state accepts the same federal list of documents, but some states accept additional documents, so your state DMV website shows exactly what you can bring.
• You must appear in person — Real ID cannot be obtained by mail or online in any state.
• Bring your current driver's license or state ID, even if it is expired, because it speeds up the process.

Proof of identity: what counts

Your proof of identity must be a document issued by a government agency that includes your photograph and signature. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state all work. If you do not have a passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate (the long form with the raised seal, not a photocopy) is the most common choice.

If you were born outside the United States, you can use a foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a permanent resident card (green card). Some states also accept a military ID card or a tribal ID card if it includes a photograph. Check your state's DMV website to see the full list — a few states accept documents that others do not.

Proof of residency: what counts

Your proof of residency must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days or so (the exact window varies by state). A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the easiest option. A lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax bill also work.

If you live with someone else and the bill is not in your name, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill. A few states accept a government check or tax return. Do not bring a cell phone bill — most states do not accept it because the address is not verified the same way. Again, check your state's list first.

Proof of Social Security number: what counts

The simplest proof is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have it or cannot find it, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document with your Social Security number printed on it works. Some states accept a Social Security Administration letter or a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or the Veterans Administration.

If you have none of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV. That takes one to two weeks by mail. Bring whatever you have — the DMV staff can tell you on the spot whether it is enough.

Your current driver's license or state ID

Bring your current license or ID even if it is expired. It is not required, but it speeds up the process because the DMV already has your information on file. If you do not have one, you can still get a Real ID — you will just fill out more paperwork and the appointment may take longer.

If you lost your license or ID, bring whatever government-issued photo ID you have instead. The DMV can work with a passport, military ID, or tribal ID in place of a state license.

What to bring on the day you go

Gather all your documents before you leave home and check them against your state's DMV website one more time. Bring the originals, not photocopies, unless your state specifically says a copy is acceptable (some states accept a copy of your birth certificate, for example). Bring your Social Security card itself if you have it — do not mail it or leave it at home.

Bring a completed process form if your state requires it. Most states let you fill it out online before you arrive or at the office itself, but a few require it in advance. Check your state's website to see whether you need an appointment or can walk in. Many states now require appointments, and walk-ins may be turned away.

If you were born outside the United States

You will need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a foreign birth certificate, or a foreign passport in addition to the other documents. If your birth certificate is in another language, bring the original plus an English translation certified by a translator. Some states accept a notarized translation; others require a certified one. Your state DMV website will say which.

If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you cannot get a Real ID — you can get a standard state ID instead, which does not meet federal requirements for flying domestically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID if my name has changed?

Yes. Bring a document that shows both your old name and new name, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you changed your name through marriage, bring the marriage certificate. If you changed it through court order, bring the court order.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can request one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. That takes one to four weeks depending on where you were born. In the meantime, a U.S. passport or passport card counts as proof of identity and citizenship, so if you have one, you can use that instead.

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

Most states now require appointments, which you can book on the DMV website. Some offices still accept walk-ins, but wait times are often long. Check your state's DMV website to see what your local office requires.

What if my address on my driver's license is old?

Bring a separate proof of residency document dated within the last 60 days. The DMV will update your address when you explore for the Real ID.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID for me?

No. You must appear in person to get a Real ID. Some states let you pick up someone else's ID if you have a notarized power of attorney, but you cannot explore on someone else's behalf.