What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

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 address to your state's driver's license or ID office. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You cannot complete this in person without physical documents — no digital copies or photos on your phone will work.

Real ID is a federal security standard that states adopted starting in 2020. It lets you use your driver's license or state ID card to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. If you do not have Real ID and want to fly domestically after the important date your state sets, you will need a passport or other federal ID instead.

Key Takeaways

You must bring one document proving your identity (a passport, birth certificate, or similar), one showing your Social Security number (usually a Social Security card or tax return), and one showing your current address (a utility bill or lease).
Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, because some states take different forms of proof than others.
You cannot renew by mail or online if you are getting Real ID for the first time — you must appear in person with your documents.
The process takes the same time as a regular license renewal, usually a few days to a few weeks depending on your state's backlog.
If you do not have one of the required documents, your state DMV can tell you what alternatives they accept before you make a trip.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your state needs one document that proves who you are. A U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate all work. If you do not have any of those, your state may accept a foreign passport, a Trusted Traveler card (like Global Entry or NEXUS), a military ID, or a tribal ID card.

Some states also accept a certified copy of a court record, an adoption decree, or a school or work ID if you also bring a second form of ID with your photo. The safest approach is to check your state's DMV website before you go — search "[your state] DMV Real ID documents" and look for the official list. States update these lists, and what one state accepts another may not.

Proof of Your Social Security Number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. Your Social Security card itself is the most straightforward option. If you do not have it or cannot find it, your state will usually accept a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement that shows your Social Security number.

Some states also accept a letter from the Social Security Administration itself. If you have lost your Social Security card and do not have any of these documents, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV — that takes about two weeks by mail. Alternatively, call your state's DMV to ask what other documents they will take.

Proof of Your Current Address

You need one document showing where you live now. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document with your address all work. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though some states allow up to 90 days — check your state's rules.

If you have moved recently and your address has not updated on your bills yet, bring a lease or purchase agreement instead. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, call your state DMV to ask what they accept — many states have workarounds for this situation, such as using a shelter address or a mail forwarding service.

Your Current License or ID Card

Bring the driver's license or ID card you have now, even if it is expired. Your state needs to see it to process your Real ID process. If you have lost your current license, tell the DMV when you arrive — they will ask you to fill out a form reporting it lost or stolen, and the process takes a bit longer but is still straightforward.

If your current license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get Real ID until that is resolved. Contact your state DMV before you go to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension.

What to Bring in Person

Gather all your documents before you go to the DMV. Make copies of everything if you want to keep them, but bring the originals — the DMV will not accept copies. Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost on the way.

You will also need to fill out an process form when you arrive. Most states let you read and fill it out at home before you go, which speeds up the process. Search "[your state] DMV Real ID process form" to find it. Bring the completed form with you, or arrive early enough to fill it out at the office.

If You Are Missing a Document

If you do not have one of the required documents, do not assume you cannot get Real ID. Call your state's DMV before you make a trip and describe what you have. Many states have alternative documents they accept, or they can tell you the fastest way to get what you are missing.

If you need a birth certificate and do not have one, you can order it from your state's vital records office — search "[your state] vital records birth certificate" to find the office and the cost. This usually takes one to three weeks. If you need a Social Security card, the Social Security Administration can mail you a replacement in about two weeks. If you need proof of address and cannot get a utility bill, ask the DMV what they will take instead — many accept letters from employers, schools, or government agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Real ID by mail or online?

No. If you are getting Real ID for the first time, you must appear in person with your documents. Some states let you renew a Real ID by mail if you already have one, but the initial process requires a visit to the DMV office.

What if my address on my license does not match my proof of address?

Bring both documents and explain the situation when you arrive. The DMV will update your address on your new license. If the mismatch is recent, bring a document showing the old address and one showing the new address so the DMV can see the change happened.

Do I need Real ID to fly domestically?

Not yet, but your state has set a important date. After that date, you will need Real ID, a passport, a military ID, or another federal ID to board a domestic flight. Check your state's DMV website to find out when the important date is in your state.

Can I use a photo from my phone instead of bringing documents?

No. The DMV must see the physical documents. Digital copies or photos do not work because the DMV needs to verify the documents are real.

How much does Real ID cost?

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a Real ID driver's license or ID card. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.