The documents Real ID requires

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your current address. You will also need your Social Security number. The exact documents that work vary slightly by state, but the federal standard is the same everywhere.

You cannot get a Real ID by mail or online. You must go to your state's DMV or equivalent office in person, bring originals or certified copies of your documents, and sign the process there. Some states let you start the process online to skip the document-upload step, but you still have to show up with the physical papers.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof you are a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and a document showing your current address.
  • Your state DMV decides which specific documents it will accept, so check your state's website before you go — a utility bill works in most states but not all.
  • You must appear in person with original documents or certified copies; no state accepts photocopies or digital images.
  • The fee ranges from about $20 to $60 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or getting a new card.

Proof of identity documents that work

A current U.S. passport is the easiest single document because it proves both identity and citizenship at once. If you do not have a passport, you need a birth certificate (original or certified copy from the vital records office, not a photocopy) plus a government-issued photo ID like a current driver's license, military ID, or passport card.

Some states accept a combination of documents instead — for example, a school ID plus a Social Security card plus a utility bill. But the safest approach is to bring a birth certificate and a photo ID. If your birth certificate is old or damaged, order a certified copy from your state's vital records office before you go to the DMV; most states charge $10 to $25 for this and mail it within one to two weeks.

Proof of citizenship or legal residency

A U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy) is the standard proof of citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, you need a passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Permanent Resident Card (green card). Photocopies do not work — the DMV will turn you away.

If you were born in a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, a birth certificate from that territory counts as proof of citizenship. If you cannot locate your birth certificate, contact your state or territory's vital records office; they can issue a certified copy, usually within two weeks.

Proof of current address

Your state DMV will accept a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some states also accept a government letter (like a tax return or Social Security statement) or a cell phone bill. A few states are stricter and do not accept utility bills — check your state's DMV website to see what it takes.

The document must have your name and current address printed on it. A post office change-of-address form does not work. If you just moved and do not have a recent bill in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on company letterhead confirming your address, or bring two documents that together show your name and address (like a lease plus a bank statement).

Your Social Security number and signature

You will need to provide your nine-digit Social Security number when you fill out the process at the DMV. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though the DMV can look it up if you know the number. You will also sign the process in front of a DMV employee — you cannot sign it ahead of time.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a Real ID. You would need to explore for a Social Security number first through the Social Security Administration, which requires proof of identity, citizenship, and age. That process takes about two weeks.

What to bring and what to leave at home

Bring originals or certified copies only. Photocopies, faxes, and photos of documents will not work. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation certified by a translator — the DMV will not accept a translation you did yourself.

You do not need to bring your old driver's license or ID card, though it can help speed things up. You do not need to bring proof of your name change if you have been married or divorced — the DMV can look that up in court records, though some states ask you to bring a marriage certificate or divorce decree to make the process faster. Call your state DMV ahead of time if you have changed your name and want to know what to bring.

How to get certified copies of documents

If you need a certified copy of your birth certificate, go to your state's vital records office website (search "[your state] vital records" or "[your state] department of health"). Most states let you order online and pay by credit card; the copy arrives by mail in one to three weeks. Some states still require you to mail in a form and a check, which takes longer.

If you need a certified copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court document, contact the county clerk's office where the document was filed. If you need a certified copy of a naturalization or citizenship document, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Certified copies usually cost $10 to $30 and take one to four weeks to arrive by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID and also proves citizenship, so it works the same way a full passport does. You still need to bring proof of your current address.

What if my birth certificate has my maiden name but I am married now?

Bring the birth certificate with your maiden name plus a marriage certificate (original or certified copy). The DMV will use both documents together to confirm your identity and citizenship. Some states ask you to bring the marriage certificate; others do not, but it speeds things up.

Do I need to renew my Real ID every time I move?

No. Your Real ID stays valid until the expiration date printed on it, even if you move. You only need to update your address at the DMV if you want the card to show your new address — that is optional and usually costs a small fee.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID for me?

No. You must sign the process in person at the DMV. You cannot have someone else sign it or pick up the card on your behalf. You have to be there.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You do not need the physical card — you just need to know your nine-digit number. If you do not know it, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov. They can tell you your number over the phone if you can verify your identity.