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 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 categories are the same everywhere.

You cannot submit documents by mail or online for a Real ID. You must appear in person at your state's DMV or equivalent agency. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. The staff will verify each document and may ask follow-up questions about what you bring.

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.
  • Your current driver's license or state ID card is required; you cannot renew to Real ID without it.
  • A passport, passport card, or birth certificate counts as proof of identity; a Social Security card or W-2 counts as proof of your number.
  • You must visit the DMV in person; no state accepts documents by mail or email for Real ID.
  • Processing times vary by state, but most take two to four weeks after your visit.

Proof of identity documents

Your state will accept one of these as proof of identity: a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization. If you were born outside the U.S., you may also use a foreign passport if your state accepts it — check your state DMV website for the full list.

A birth certificate must be an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born, not a photocopy or a hospital record. If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office; this usually takes one to three weeks. Some states also accept a driver's license or ID card from another state as proof of identity if it is current.

Proof of Social Security number

Bring your original Social Security card, or one of these documents: a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a Social Security statement, or a paystub showing your full Social Security number. The document must be current — most states accept documents from the past year, but check your state's rules.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration online at ssa.gov or by visiting a local Social Security office. A replacement card takes one to two weeks. If you do not have any of the documents listed above, ask your employer or the IRS for a copy of a recent tax form.

Proof of address

Bring one document showing your current address: a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a government check or benefit statement, a property tax bill, or a vehicle registration. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the past 60 days. A utility bill is the most common choice because it is straightforward to obtain and clearly shows both.

If you have moved recently and your documents still show an old address, bring a second document with your new address, or bring a lease or utility bill in your name. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, some states will accept it if you bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill confirming you live there. Check your state DMV website for the exact rule in your state.

Your current driver's license or state ID card

You must bring your current driver's license or state ID card to the DMV, even though you are renewing it to Real ID. If your license or ID has expired, most states will still accept it for the Real ID process as long as it expired within the past few years — the exact window varies by state. If your license or ID was lost or stolen, bring a police report or a statement from your state DMV confirming the loss.

If you do not have a current or recent license or ID, you will need to get a standard state ID first before you can upgrade to Real ID. This requires the same documents listed above and takes an additional visit to the DMV.

What to bring to the DMV

Make a checklist before you go: your current driver's license or state ID, one identity document, one Social Security document, and one address document. Bring the originals or certified copies. Leave photocopies at home — the DMV will not accept them.

Arrive early in the day if possible; DMV wait times are often shorter in the morning. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms on the spot. Some states allow you to make an appointment online before you visit; check your state DMV website to see if this is an option where you live. If you bring documents in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well.

Processing time and what happens next

After you submit your documents and pay the fee, the DMV will take your photo and fingerprints. Most states mail your Real ID card within two to four weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee if you need the card sooner. A few states issue the card on the spot, but this is rare.

You will receive a temporary document or receipt showing you have applied. Keep this until your Real ID arrives. If your card does not arrive within the timeframe your state gave you, contact the DMV to check the status. You can usually track your process online using your driver's license number or process number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

Order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. You can do this online or by mail; most take one to three weeks. While you wait, you can use a U.S. passport or passport card instead if you have one.

Can I use a photocopy of my Social Security card?

No. You must bring the original card or an original document like a W-2, tax return, or paystub. The DMV will not accept photocopies of any document.

What if my address documents are in someone else's name?

Some states accept a utility bill or lease in a household member's name if you bring a signed letter from them confirming you live there. Check your state DMV website or call ahead to confirm what proof they will accept.

Do I need to make an appointment?

It depends on your state. Some states require appointments; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state DMV website to see the policy where you live. Making an appointment usually reduces wait time.

How much does a Real ID cost?

The fee varies by state, usually between $15 and $30 for a standard Real ID card. Some states charge extra for expedited processing. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee in your state.