Bring These Documents to Your Real ID Appointment

You need to bring one document that proves your identity, one that proves your address, and one that proves your Social Security number. You also need your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation. Plan to spend 10 to 15 minutes at the DMV window, so arrive early enough that you are not rushed.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one identity document (passport, birth certificate, or similar), one address document (utility bill or lease), and one Social Security proof (Social Security card or tax return).
  • Your current driver's license or state ID card is required at every Real ID appointment, even if it is expired.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies will be rejected.
  • The exact list of accepted documents varies by state, so check your state DMV website before you go.
  • If you cannot find one of the required documents, your state DMV can tell you what alternatives they accept.

Identity Documents: What Counts

An identity document proves who you are. A U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state all work. So do a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.

If you were born outside the United States, a foreign passport works if it is still valid or expired no more than five years ago. Some states also accept a Permanent Resident Card (green card) or an Employment Authorization Document. Check your state DMV website to see the full list — a few states have slightly different rules.

Do not bring a school ID, work ID, or library card. These are not considered proof of identity for Real ID purposes.

Address Documents: Proof You Live Where You Say

An address document shows where you live right now. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works if it is dated within the last 60 days. So does a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and government benefit letters (like unemployment or Social Security) are also accepted in most states if they are dated within the last 60 days and show your current address. A few states accept a cell phone bill or a vehicle registration.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed statement from the person whose name is on the bill saying you live there. Some states require this letter to be notarized; others do not. Call your local DMV office to ask before you go.

Social Security Proof: Showing Your SSN

A Social Security document proves your number. The easiest option is your Social Security card itself — bring the original. If you do not have it, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return from the past year all work. A Social Security benefit letter or an SSA-1099 (the form Social Security sends if you receive benefits) also counts.

Some states accept a paystub that shows your full Social Security number. Others do not, so check your state DMV website first. If you have never had a Social Security number or lost your card and cannot find any of these documents, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before your DMV appointment — this can take two to four weeks.

Your Current License or ID Card

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it is expired. The DMV needs to see it to process your Real ID process. If you lost your license, bring a police report of the loss or a statement signed by you saying it was lost or stolen.

If you have never had a driver's license or state ID in your state, you will need to pass a written test and a driving test before you can get a Real ID. Bring your identity, address, and Social Security documents to that appointment as well.

What to Do If You Cannot Find a Document

If you do not have one of the three required documents, call your state DMV before you go. Many states have alternative documents they will accept — for example, some accept a court order, a divorce decree, or a hospital record as proof of identity if you do not have a passport or birth certificate.

If you cannot find your Social Security card and have no tax documents, the DMV can sometimes contact Social Security on your behalf to verify your number. This takes longer, so ask whether your local office offers this service when you call.

Do not skip the appointment hoping to find the document later. Go in, tell the DMV what you have and what you are missing, and ask what they can work with. Many people get their Real ID approved with documents slightly different from the standard list.

Bringing Documents from Other Countries

If your identity document is from another country, it must be valid or expired no more than five years. Bring the original document. If it is not in English, bring the original plus an official English translation — a photocopy of a translation will not work.

An official translation comes from a certified translator, a consulate, or an embassy. Some states accept translations done by a notary public; others require a certified translator. Call your DMV to ask what they need before you pay for a translation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photo of my documents instead of the originals?

No. The DMV must see the original documents or certified copies. A photo on your phone will be rejected. If you cannot carry originals safely, ask the DMV whether they will accept certified copies instead — most will.

What if my address on my current license is old?

Bring a current address document (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) that shows your new address. The DMV will update your address when they issue your Real ID. You do not need to change your address before the appointment.

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

No. A tax return, W-2, or 1099 from the past year is enough. You do not need the card itself. If you have the card, bring it — it is faster — but it is not required if you have another Social Security document.

What if I was born in a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico?

A birth certificate from Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa counts as a U.S. birth certificate for Real ID. Bring the original or a certified copy, just as you would for a birth certificate from any state.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must be present at the DMV appointment. The DMV needs to see you in person, verify your identity, and take your photo. You cannot send someone with your documents.