The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but the core list is the same everywhere

To get a Real ID, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your state residency. You will also need to show your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents that satisfy each category vary slightly by state — some accept a utility bill for address proof, others require a lease or mortgage statement — so you should check your state's DMV website before you go to the office.

You cannot explore online or by mail in most states. You must visit a DMV office in person, bring all your documents, and have your photo taken. Bring the originals, not copies, because staff will need to see them. Some states let you renew a Real ID by mail if you already have one, but a first-time process almost always requires a visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You need four types of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of current address, and proof of state residency.
  • Your state's DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts for each category, because requirements vary by state.
  • You must explore in person at a DMV office and bring original documents, not copies.
  • The fee for a Real ID is typically between $20 and $30 on top of your regular driver's license or ID card renewal cost, though some states charge more.
  • Processing time is usually two to four weeks, but can be longer during busy periods or if the DMV needs to verify documents.

Proof of identity: what documents work

For proof of identity, most states accept a U.S. passport, passport card, or a certified birth certificate. Some states also accept a foreign passport if you are not yet a U.S. citizen, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad if you were born outside the country to a U.S. citizen parent. A few states accept a Native American tribal ID card.

Your current driver's license or state ID card does not count as proof of identity for a Real ID process, even though you will need to bring it. The DMV needs to see a document that proves who you are independent of any state-issued ID. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — this usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30.

Proof of Social Security number: what documents work

The easiest proof of Social Security number is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have it, you can bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a pay stub, or a tax return that shows your full Social Security number. Some states also accept a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number.

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 online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

Proof of current address: what documents work

Most states accept a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. Some states also accept a bank statement, insurance policy, or a letter from a government agency. A few states accept a recent paystub if it shows your address. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents it will take, because the list varies.

If you have just moved and do not have a recent bill in your name, ask your utility company, landlord, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address. Some will provide this for free. If you live with family or a roommate and the bills are in their name, bring a signed statement from them confirming you live there, along with a copy of their bill and a copy of your lease or rental agreement if you have one.

Proof of state residency: what documents work

In most states, proof of current address (the utility bill or lease) also counts as proof of state residency, so you do not need a separate document. However, a few states require an additional document showing you have lived in the state for a certain amount of time — usually 30 to 60 days. Check your state's DMV website to see if this applies to you.

If your state does require separate residency proof, acceptable documents usually include a lease, mortgage, utility bill, bank statement, or a letter from your employer showing your work address in the state. Some states also accept a voter registration card or a vehicle registration from that state.

What to bring to the DMV office

Bring all original documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even though it is not proof of identity. Bring your Social Security card or one of the alternative documents listed above. Bring your proof of address document. If your state requires separate residency proof, bring that too.

Bring the fee — usually $20 to $30 for the Real ID endorsement, plus the cost of renewing your driver's license or ID card if it is expiring. Some states charge more. Check your state's DMV website for the exact amount and whether your state takes cash, card, or check. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out a form by hand.

Do not bring copies. The DMV staff will look at your originals and hand them back to you. If you bring copies instead, you will be turned away and have to come back another day.

What happens after you submit your documents

The DMV will scan or photograph your documents, take a new photo of you, and process your process. You will receive a temporary Real ID document (usually a paper receipt or a temporary card) that you can use for domestic flights and federal building access while your permanent card is being made. Your permanent Real ID card will arrive by mail in two to four weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

If the DMV cannot verify one of your documents — for example, if your birth certificate does not match the name on your Social Security card — staff will contact you by phone or mail to ask for clarification or an additional document. This can add one to two weeks to your processing time. Keep your temporary document safe until your permanent card arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport instead of a birth certificate?

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card counts as proof of identity in all states and is often faster than ordering a birth certificate. If you already have a passport, bring it instead.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring both your birth certificate and a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will need to see that the name on your current ID matches the name on your other documents.

Do I need to renew my driver's license at the same time I get a Real ID?

Not necessarily. If your license is not expiring soon, you can get a Real ID endorsement added to your current card in some states. However, most states require you to renew your license when you add the Real ID. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to ask.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID card if I cannot go to the DMV?

No. You must explore in person. However, once your card arrives in the mail, someone else can pick it up from your mailbox or receive it on your behalf if you authorize them.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get a regular driver's license or state ID card, but you cannot get a Real ID. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, ask your DMV about other forms of federal ID you may be able to use for domestic flights.