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 current address, and proof of your state residency — all at the same time, in person, to your state's driver's license or ID card office. You cannot mail these in or submit them online. Each state accepts slightly different documents, but the federal standard is the same everywhere.

Real ID is a federal security standard for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. It lets you use your license to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport. If your state license does not have the Real ID gold star or marking in the upper right corner, you will need a passport or other federal ID to fly domestically after May 7, 2025.

Key Takeaways

You must appear in person at your state's DMV or equivalent office with original or certified documents — no online or mail applications exist for Real ID.
You need four types of proof: identity (passport, birth certificate, or foreign ID), Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), current address (utility bill or lease), and state residency (driver's license or state ID from another state).
Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts in each category, because rules vary by state.
Bring your current driver's license or ID card if you have one, along with the four required documents.
Processing takes two to four weeks in most states, so plan ahead if you need to fly or enter a federal building.

Proof of identity documents

For identity, bring one of these original documents or a certified copy: a valid U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate issued by a state vital records office, a foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. Some states also accept a Native American tribal ID card or a military ID card.

A birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or security features — a photocopy or a hospital birth certificate will not work. If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, it must be certified and may need to be translated into English by an official translator.

If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, you can request 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 between $10 and $30, depending on the state.

Proof of Social Security number

Bring your original Social Security card, or a document that shows your Social Security number: a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a paystub, or a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid. The document must show your full name and full Social Security number.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you can request a replacement 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 usually arrives in two to three weeks and is free.

Proof of current address

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a government benefit statement.

The document must be in your name and show a street address — a PO box does not count. If you have recently moved and your utility bill or lease has not yet arrived, ask your utility company or landlord for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address, dated within the last 60 days.

Proof of state residency

Bring a document showing you live in the state where you are explore for Real ID. This can be your current driver's license or state ID card from that state, a lease or mortgage in that state, a utility bill in that state, a property tax bill, a vehicle registration, a voter registration card, or a military discharge papers (DD-214) showing that state as your home of record.

If you have just moved to the state, bring the document that proves your address in that state — usually your lease or utility bill. Some states also accept an affidavit of residency signed by a notary public if you cannot produce other documents.

What to bring to the DMV

Bring all four types of documents listed above, plus your current driver's license or state ID card if you have one. Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If any document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation.

Bring your Social Security card itself if you have it, even though other documents with your Social Security number are also accepted. Some states ask for it specifically. You will also need to fill out an process form at the DMV — most states let you read and pre-fill it on their website, which speeds up the process.

Check your state's DMV website before you go. Each state publishes a list of exactly which documents it accepts in each category, and some states have additional requirements. A few states accept documents by mail for renewals, but all states require you to appear in person for a Real ID process.

Timeline and what happens next

Processing takes two to four weeks in most states, though some states are faster and some are slower. You will receive your Real ID in the mail at the address you provided. The card will have a gold star or marking in the upper right corner to show it meets federal standards.

Your Real ID is valid for the same length of time as a regular driver's license in your state — usually five to eight years, depending on your age. You can use it to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport. You will still need a passport for international travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Real ID by mail or online?

No. All states require you to appear in person at a DMV office with your original documents. You cannot mail in an process or submit documents electronically for a Real ID.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You can request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. Visit the state's vital records website or call the office to order one. It usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. In the meantime, you can use a passport or passport card instead if you have one.

Do I need to renew my license to get Real ID?

Not necessarily. If your license is still valid, you can explore for Real ID without renewing it. However, some states combine the Real ID process with a renewal. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can get Real ID as a separate transaction or whether you must renew at the same time.

What if my address on my driver's license doesn't match my current address?

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address when you explore for Real ID. You do not need to update your license first.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID for me?

No. Real ID cards are mailed to the address you provide at the DMV. You cannot pick it up in person or have someone else collect it. If you move before your card arrives, contact your state's DMV to update your mailing address.

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.