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 also need to show that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

Real ID is a federal standard that makes driver's licenses and state ID cards acceptable for domestic flights and entry to federal buildings. It is not a separate card—it replaces your regular driver's license or state ID. When you renew or get a new license, you can request the Real ID version instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving your identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), one proving your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and one showing your current address (utility bill or lease).
  • You must also prove citizenship or lawful permanent residency with a passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or green card.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, because some states take additional forms that others do not.
  • You cannot get Real ID by mail in most states—you must appear in person at a DMV office.
  • Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted for most documents.

Identity documents the DMV will accept

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid passport, a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a state ID card, a driver's license from another state, a passport card, or a tribal ID card. Some states also accept a military ID or a permanent resident card (green card) as proof of identity.

The document must be current or expired no more than a few years—check your state's DMV website for the exact window. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born, not a photocopy or a hospital record.

Proof of your Social Security number

Bring your original Social Security card, or a document that shows your number. The DMV accepts a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a paystub with your full Social Security number, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you do not have your card and cannot find any of these documents, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV.

A photocopy of your Social Security card is usually not accepted. If you bring a paystub or tax form, it must show your full nine-digit number, not a partial one.

Proof of your current address

The DMV needs a document showing your name and current home address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued mail piece all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days or so—check your state's rules, as the window varies.

If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your new name yet, some states accept a signed letter from your landlord or a recent change-of-address confirmation from the post office. Ask your DMV what they will take if you are in transition.

Proof of citizenship or lawful residency

You must show that you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest proof. If you do not have a passport, bring your original birth certificate (certified copy), a Certificate of Naturalization if you were born outside the U.S. and became a citizen, or a Permanent Resident Card (green card).

Some states also accept a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a state-issued birth certificate. If you were born outside the U.S., the document must be an official one from the government that issued it, not a translation or photocopy.

What to bring to the DMV

Gather all your documents before you go. Bring originals or certified copies—the DMV will not accept photocopies for most documents. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original and an official English translation.

You will also need to fill out an process form. Most states let you read and print it ahead of time from the DMV website, which saves time at the office. Bring a pen, your current driver's license or state ID if you have one, and any other documents the DMV asks for on its checklist. Some states charge a fee for Real ID (usually $10 to $30 more than a regular renewal), so check what your state charges and whether you can pay by card or need cash.

Why your state's DMV website matters

Every state's DMV has its own list of accepted documents, and some states accept forms that others do not. Before you go, visit your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID section. It will show you exactly which documents your state takes, whether you need certified copies or originals, and how recent documents need to be.

Some states also let you check in advance whether your documents will work, or they offer an online pre-check tool. If you are unsure about a document, call your local DMV office or use the online chat—it is faster than making a trip and finding out your document does not may have access to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You need an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. A photocopy, hospital record, or baptism certificate will not work. You can order a certified copy online or by mail from the vital records office.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

You can bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, paystub, or a letter from the Social Security Administration instead. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you go to the DMV. It takes about two weeks to arrive.

Do I need to bring my current driver's license?

It helps but is not always required. If you are renewing, bring it so the DMV can transfer your information. If you are getting a state ID for the first time, you do not need a current license, but bring any ID you have. Check your state's DMV website to be sure.

Can I get Real ID by mail?

Most states require you to appear in person at a DMV office. A few states let you renew by mail if you already have a Real ID and are just extending it, but you cannot get Real ID for the first time by mail. Check your state's DMV website to see if mail renewal is an option for you.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring a document that shows your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address on the new Real ID. You do not need to change your address separately before you explore.