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 office. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You cannot mail in your process—you must appear in person.

Real ID is a federal security standard that applies to driver's licenses and state ID cards. It lets you use your license to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. If your state hasn't already upgraded your license, you'll need to visit the DMV and bring the right paperwork.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued identity document to prove who you are.
  • You need a Social Security card, W-2, tax return, or other official document that shows your full Social Security number.
  • You must prove your current address with a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—a PO box does not count.
  • You have to explore in person at your state's DMV or driver's license office; no online or mail-in option exists for Real ID.
  • Bring your current driver's license or state ID card if you already have one, even if it is not yet expired.

Proof of identity documents that work

Your state will accept one document from this list as proof of identity. An original or certified copy means you cannot use a photocopy or a photo of the document on your phone—you must bring the physical document itself.

Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, passport book, enhanced driver's license from another state, military ID, or a birth certificate issued by a state vital records office. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. A few states accept a tribal ID card if it is issued by a federally recognized tribe.

Your current driver's license or state ID card counts as proof of identity, even if it is expired. If you do not have any of these documents, you will need to order a birth certificate from the state where you were born before you can get Real ID.

Proof of Social Security number

You need one document that shows your full Social Security number. The Social Security Administration card itself is the most straightforward option, but your state will also accept a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement that displays your full number.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one at your local Social Security office before you can get Real ID. Bring your birth certificate and proof of identity to that appointment.

Proof of current address

You must bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current name and address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill all work. Insurance documents, bank statements, and government mail also count.

A PO box address does not satisfy this requirement—your document must show a physical street address. If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your address, or bring a lease agreement with your current address and a recent bill from your old address.

What to bring to the DMV appointment

Gather all your documents before you go. Bring your original or certified proof of identity, your proof of Social Security number, and your proof of address. Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. Bring any name-change documents if your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change.

Bring your Social Security card itself if you have it, even though other documents work. It speeds up the process. Bring cash or a debit card for the fee—Real ID costs vary by state, but most charge between $20 and $50 for a new license or card. Some states charge extra if you want a Real ID upgrade to an existing license.

Check your state's DMV website before you go. Some states have additional requirements, and a few accept documents that others do not. Your state may also require you to schedule an appointment online rather than walk in.

Name changes and documents in different names

If your name on your birth certificate does not match your current legal name, bring the document that changed it. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. Your state will not issue Real ID if your documents do not show a clear chain of name changes from your birth certificate to your current name.

If you have documents in different names—for example, a Social Security card under your maiden name and a utility bill under your married name—bring both. Bring the document that shows the name change so the DMV can see they refer to the same person.

If you are missing a required document

If you do not have a birth certificate, order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. Most states let you order online or by mail. The process takes one to four weeks depending on the state. If you were born outside the United States, bring your Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship instead.

If you do not have a Social Security card, visit your local Social Security office with your birth certificate and proof of identity. You can explore for a number in person, and they will issue you a card. If you do not have proof of address, ask your landlord, employer, or bank for a letter on official letterhead with your name and current address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy or a photo of my documents on my phone?

No. You must bring the original document or a certified copy. A photocopy or a photo will not work. The DMV staff need to see the physical document to verify it is real.

What if my address on my driver's license is different from my current address?

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address. Your old license will not work as proof of your new address. A utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement with your current address is what the DMV needs.

Do I need to renew my license to get Real ID, or can I upgrade it?

That depends on your state. Some states let you upgrade an existing license to Real ID without renewing it. Others require you to renew. Check your state's DMV website to see which option applies to you and what the fee is.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship as proof of identity instead of a birth certificate. You still need proof of your Social Security number and your current address.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID for me, or do I have to go myself?

You must explore in person. Some states let someone else pick up your finished license, but you have to be present for the process appointment. Check your state's DMV website for their rules on pickup.