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 current address. You will also need to bring your current driver's license or state ID card. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the federal government sets the core requirements, and every state follows the same basic list.

You cannot submit documents by mail or online for a Real ID. You must appear in person at your state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or equivalent agency with all documents in hand. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving your identity, one proving your Social Security number, and one proving your current address — all originals or certified copies.
  • A passport or passport card counts as proof of both identity and citizenship, so it can reduce the number of documents you need to bring.
  • Your current driver's license or state ID is required, even if it is expired, because the DMV uses it to verify your existing record.
  • Utility bills, bank statements, and lease agreements all work as proof of address if they show your name and current street address.
  • You must appear in person at the DMV with original documents; no state accepts mailed or digital submissions for Real ID.

Proof of Identity Documents

For proof of identity, bring one document from this list: a valid or expired passport, a passport card, a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, a permanent resident card (Green Card), a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a driver's license or ID card from another state, a military ID, or a military dependent ID.

A passport or passport card is the easiest choice because it proves both your identity and your citizenship in one document. If you have a passport, you may not need to bring a separate citizenship document. Check your state's DMV website to confirm whether a passport alone is sufficient or whether your state requires an additional proof of citizenship.

If you do not have a passport, a certified birth certificate is the next most common option. Order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — a photocopy or uncertified version will not work. The vital records office is usually run by the state health department. You can find the correct office by searching "[your state] vital records" online.

Proof of Social Security Number

Bring one document showing your Social Security number: your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a paystub, or a bank statement with your Social Security number printed on it. The document must be an original or certified copy.

Your Social Security card is the simplest option if you have it. If you have lost your card, a recent paystub or tax return works just as well. If you do not have any of these documents, you can order a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration by visiting your local Social Security office or explore online at ssa.gov.

Proof of Current Address

Bring one document showing your current name and street address: a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a bank or credit card statement, a lease or mortgage document, a property tax bill, an insurance policy, a government check or benefit statement, or a paystub. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your full name and current street address.

A utility bill in your name is the most straightforward choice. If you recently moved and your utility bill still shows an old address, a bank statement or lease agreement dated after your move will work instead. If you live with someone else and utilities are in their name, ask if you can use a document in your name, such as a bank statement or insurance policy.

Post office boxes do not count as a current address for Real ID purposes. You must provide a street address where you actually live.

Your Current Driver's License or State ID

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it is expired. The DMV needs it to look up your existing record and verify the information you provide. If you have lost your license, contact your state DMV before your appointment to find out whether you can still explore for Real ID or whether you must first replace your lost license.

If your license or ID is suspended or revoked, you may not be able to renew it or upgrade it to Real ID until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact your state DMV directly to understand your situation.

Proof of Citizenship (If Your State Requires It)

Some states require a separate proof of citizenship document even if you bring a passport. Check your state's DMV website to see whether this applies to you. If it does, bring one of these: a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate (certified), a naturalization certificate, or a permanent resident card.

If you were born outside the United States and are a naturalized citizen, bring your naturalization certificate. If you are a permanent resident (Green Card holder), bring your Green Card. If you were born in the United States, a certified birth certificate is sufficient.

What to Do Before You Go to the DMV

Visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "Real ID requirements." Each state publishes a list of accepted documents specific to that state, and a few states have slightly different rules. Confirm which documents your state accepts before you gather them.

Make copies of all your documents for your records, but bring the originals to the DMV. If a document is a certified copy (such as a birth certificate), the certification mark or seal must be visible. If you are unsure whether a document is certified, contact the office that issued it.

Gather your documents at least a week before your planned DMV visit. If you are missing a document, you will have time to order it. Many DMVs accept appointments, and booking ahead can save you hours of waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy or photo of my documents?

No. You must bring original documents or certified copies to the DMV in person. Digital copies, photos, and photocopies are not accepted. The DMV staff will examine the documents to verify they are genuine.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You will need a certified birth certificate from the country where you were born, or a naturalization certificate if you are a U.S. citizen, or a permanent resident card if you hold a Green Card. Contact the vital records office in the country or state where you were born to order a certified copy. Processing times vary widely by country.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I use a paystub instead?

Either works. If you have your Social Security card, bring it — it is the simplest proof. If you do not have it or have lost it, a paystub, tax return, or bank statement with your Social Security number is acceptable. You do not have to replace your card first.

What if my address on my driver's license does not match my current address?

Bring your current driver's license as it is, and bring a separate document proving your current address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. The DMV will update your address during your Real ID appointment.

Can someone else bring my documents to the DMV for me?

No. You must appear in person with your documents. The DMV needs to verify your identity and take a new photo for your Real ID card. No state allows a family member or representative to submit documents on your behalf.