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, proof of your address, and proof of your legal name change if one applies to you. You will also need to be present in person at your state's DMV or equivalent office — you cannot get a Real ID by mail or online.

Real ID is a federal standard that makes a driver's license or state ID card acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. It is not a separate card; it replaces your regular state ID. The documents you bring prove you are who you say you are before the state issues the card with a Real ID marker (usually a star or gold circle in the corner).

Each state's DMV accepts slightly different documents, but the categories are the same across all 50 states. The list below covers what most states accept. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states have added or removed specific documents.

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 document showing your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return — a photo is not required.
You must show proof of your current address using a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail sent to your home.
If your name has changed, bring the original or certified copy of the court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree that documents the change.
You must appear in person at your state DMV office; no one can explore on your behalf or submit documents by mail for a Real ID.

Proof of Identity Documents

Your state DMV will accept one of these as your primary identity document. It must be an original or certified copy, not a photocopy you made yourself.

A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest document you can bring — it proves citizenship and identity at once. A state-issued driver's license or ID card from another state also works. A birth certificate must be an original or certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born; a photocopy or hospital-issued copy will not be accepted.

Other documents that work include a permanent resident card (green card), a certificate of naturalization, a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a military ID card, or a foreign passport. Some states also accept a consular ID card issued by a foreign government's consulate in the U.S. Check your state's list before you go, because acceptance varies.

Proof of Social Security Number

You do not need to bring your physical Social Security card, though you can if you have it. The DMV accepts several documents that show your number instead.

A W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document from your employer works. A Social Security statement (which you can order free from ssa.gov) works. A bank statement, mortgage statement, or loan document that shows your Social Security number works. Even a utility bill or insurance policy with your number on it will do. The document does not have to be recent — the DMV is checking that the number matches your identity, not that the document is current.

If you do not have any of these, you can contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement card or a statement showing your number. That process takes one to two weeks by mail.

Proof of Current Address

You need a document showing where you live now. It must be dated within the last 60 days or show an expiration date at least 60 days in the future.

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) in your name works. A lease or mortgage statement works. A property tax bill or homeowners insurance policy works. Government mail sent to your address — such as a tax notice, voter registration card, or jury summons — works. Some states also accept a bank or credit card statement, a paycheck stub, or a letter from your employer on company letterhead.

If you are homeless or do not have mail in your name, ask your DMV what alternative documents they accept. Some states allow a notarized letter from someone who can confirm your address, or a shelter letter. Rules vary by state.

Proof of Legal Name Change

If your name on your birth certificate or passport does not match the name you want on your Real ID, bring the document that explains why. You do not need this if your name has never changed.

A marriage certificate works if you took your spouse's name. A divorce decree or court order works if you changed your name back or to something else. An adoption decree works if you were adopted. A court order for a legal name change works if you went through the formal process. These must be originals or certified copies from the court or vital records office — photocopies do not count.

If you are married and kept your maiden name, or if you go by a middle name, you do not need a name-change document. Bring your birth certificate or passport showing your legal name, and tell the DMV clerk which name you want on the card.

What to Bring on the Day You Go

Gather all your documents before you leave home. Bring originals or certified copies — the DMV will not accept photocopies you made yourself. Bring your current state ID or driver's license if you have one. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though it is not required.

Bring a completed process form. Most states let you read and print the form from their DMV website before you go, which saves time. Some DMVs have forms at the counter. Bring proof of your address — a recent bill or statement. Bring your birth certificate or passport. Bring any name-change documents if they explore to you.

Bring cash or a card to pay the fee. Real ID fees vary by state, from about $20 to $100 for a driver's license or ID card. Some states charge extra for Real ID; others include it in the standard fee. Check your state's DMV website for the exact amount.

What Happens After You Submit Your Documents

The DMV clerk will review your documents on the spot. If everything is in order, they will take your photo and fingerprints, process your payment, and tell you when your card will arrive. Most states mail the card within two to four weeks.

If a document is missing or does not meet the standard, the clerk will tell you what you need to bring back. You will have to return to the DMV in person with the correct document. Some states allow you to come back within a certain window (often 30 to 60 days) without restarting the whole process; others require you to start over. Ask the clerk what your state's policy is.

While you wait for your Real ID card to arrive, your old state ID or driver's license remains valid for domestic air travel and federal building entry until it expires. Once your Real ID card arrives, use that instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. The DMV requires an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. A photocopy you made yourself, even if notarized, will not be accepted. If you do not have your original, contact the vital records office in your birth state to order a certified copy.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You cannot get a Real ID without a Social Security number — it is a federal requirement. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you can get a state ID card without the Real ID marker, which is valid for driving but not for federal building entry or domestic air travel. Contact your state DMV for details.

Do I need to renew my Real ID before my current ID expires?

No. Your Real ID card is valid until the expiration date printed on it, just like a regular state ID. You renew it the same way you would renew any driver's license or ID card — by visiting the DMV before the expiration date. When you renew, you will need to bring updated proof of address, but you do not have to bring your birth certificate again unless your state requires it.

What if my address has changed since I got my current ID?

Bring a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days. The DMV will update your address when you explore for Real ID. You do not have to update your address separately first.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID card for me?

Rules vary by state. Some states mail the card directly to your address, so no one needs to pick it up. Others require you to pick it up in person at the DMV within a certain time frame. Check your state's DMV website or ask the clerk when you submit your documents.

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.