The documents you need depend on which ones you already have

Real ID requires proof of three things: your identity, your Social Security number, and your current address. You do not need all documents at once—most states let you gather them over time before your appointment. The exact list varies by state, so check your state's DMV website first, but the categories are the same everywhere.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will look at the actual document to verify it is real. If you bring a photocopy, you will be turned away and have to reschedule. Some documents can be verified electronically—your state DMV can check your Social Security number directly with the federal government, for example—but you still need to show the physical proof documents in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving your identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), one showing your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and one showing your current address (a utility bill or lease).
  • Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies will not be accepted, and you will have to reschedule your appointment.
  • If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born, which usually takes one to three weeks.
  • Your state DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, because some states take documents others do not (for example, some accept a school ID, others do not).
  • Bring your current ID or passport even if it is expired, because it helps staff verify your identity faster.

Proof of identity: what counts

The DMV needs one document that shows your name, date of birth, and photograph or physical description. A U.S. passport is the easiest—it covers identity, citizenship, and sometimes address all in one. If you have a passport, bring it and you are halfway done.

If you do not have a passport, bring a birth certificate issued by the state or country where you were born. It must be an official copy with a raised seal or security features, not a photocopy from a hospital or a printout from an online service. You can order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the office's website. Most states charge $15 to $30 and take one to three weeks to mail it.

Some states also accept a current or expired driver's license or state ID card from another state, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card (green card). Check your state's DMV website to see which documents it takes. Do not assume—some states are stricter than others.

Proof of Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, bring a document that shows your number: a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a bank statement, or a pay stub. The document must show your full name and full nine-digit Social Security number. A redacted or partial number will not work.

If you have lost your Social Security card and do not have any document with your number on it, you will need to order a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment. You can explore online at ssa.gov if you have a my Social Security account, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card takes about two weeks.

Proof of current address

Bring one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government notice all work. The document must show a physical street address—a PO box does not count.

If you recently moved and do not have a bill or statement yet in your new name at your new address, bring two documents: one showing your old address and one showing your new address. For example, a utility bill from your old place plus a lease for your new place. Some states also accept a notarized letter from a landlord or family member confirming your address, but check your state's rules first.

Proof of citizenship or lawful presence

Real ID requires proof that you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport covers this. If you do not have a passport, bring your birth certificate (which proves citizenship if you were born in the U.S., a U.S. territory, or to a U.S. citizen parent abroad) or your permanent resident card (green card).

If you were born outside the U.S. to a U.S. citizen parent, you may need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Naturalization. These are less common, but if they explore to you, your state's DMV website will mention it. If you are unsure whether you have proof of citizenship, call your state DMV before your appointment.

What to bring if you have changed your name

If your name on your identity document does not match your current legal name, bring proof of the name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order changing your name all work. The document must be an official copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy.

If you changed your name through marriage or divorce, some states accept a certified copy of the marriage or divorce certificate from the county clerk. If you changed your name by court order, bring the court order itself. Check your state's DMV website to see exactly what it accepts, because some states have specific rules about which documents they will take.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card if you have another document with your number on it. You do not need to bring a passport if you have a birth certificate and other proof documents. You do not need to bring multiple documents in each category—one identity document, one Social Security document, and one address document is enough.

You do not need to bring documents proving your immigration status beyond what is required for citizenship or lawful presence. You do not need to bring documents proving your residency beyond the address proof. Do not bring extra documents hoping they will help—bring only what your state's DMV website says it needs. Extra documents slow down the line.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The DMV must see the original document or a certified copy with an official seal. A photocopy or a photo on your phone will not be accepted, and you will have to reschedule. Bring the physical documents in person.

What if my birth certificate does not have a raised seal?

Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born and order a certified copy with a raised seal or security features. A birth certificate without a seal is not considered official and will not be accepted. Most states charge $15 to $30 and mail it within one to three weeks.

Do I need to bring documents if I already have a valid passport?

No. A passport proves identity, citizenship, and sometimes address all in one. Bring your passport and you may not need to bring anything else, though some states still ask for an address document if your passport address is outdated. Check your state's DMV website to be sure.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Real ID requires a Social Security number. If you do not have one, you cannot get a Real ID. You can still get a standard state ID or driver's license. Contact your state DMV to learn what documents you need for a standard ID instead.

Can I bring documents in a language other than English?

Most states require documents in English or with an official English translation. If your birth certificate or other document is in another language, contact your state DMV to ask whether it accepts translations or whether you need to order an English version from the issuing office.