Bring proof of citizenship, identity, and your current address

Real ID requires you to show three things: who you are, that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and where you live. You will need one document from each category. The exact documents your state accepts vary slightly, so check your state's DMV website before you go — some states add or remove options without warning.

You cannot use a photocopy, fax, or digital image of most documents. Bring the original or a certified copy. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), one photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID), and one proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
  • Documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents it accepts, because some states do not take all federal options.
  • 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.
  • Proof of address must show your name and current street address and be dated within the last 60 days or show an expiration date in the future.

Proof of citizenship documents

You must bring one of these. A U.S. passport (book or card) is the fastest option because it serves as both citizenship proof and photo ID, so you may only need two documents total instead of three. If your passport is expired, most states still accept it for Real ID.

A birth certificate works if it is an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed seal from the vital records office. Hospital-issued birth certificates and photocopies do not count. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (green card).

Other accepted documents include a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Indian Tribal Citizenship, or adoption papers showing you are a U.S. citizen. Some states also accept a valid passport from another country paired with a U.S. visa or I-94 arrival record if you are a lawful permanent resident.

Photo ID documents

You need one current or expired photo ID issued by a government agency. An expired driver's license or state ID card counts. A U.S. passport (book or card) works here too. A military ID, including a dependent ID, is accepted in all states.

If you do not have any of these, some states accept a tribal ID card, a passport card, or a foreign passport paired with a U.S. visa. A few states also take a school or work ID if it has your photo and signature, but this varies — check your state's list first.

The photo ID does not have to match your current legal name if you bring documents showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Bring both the old ID and the name-change document.

Proof of current address

You need one document showing your name and current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) works if it is dated within the last 60 days. A lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill also counts. Bank or credit card statements, insurance bills, and government benefit letters (Social Security, unemployment, SNAP) are accepted in most states.

The document must show your full name and street address — a PO box does not count. If the document has an expiration date, it must not be expired. If it does not have an expiration date, it must be dated within the last 60 days.

If you recently moved and do not have a document in your new name at your new address, bring a document from your old address plus a second document proving the move — a signed lease, a utility bill showing the transfer, or a change-of-address confirmation from the post office.

What to do if you do not have a birth certificate

Order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. You can usually order online, by mail, or in person. The office is often called the Department of Vital Records, Vital Statistics, or Health Department. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the right office and fee.

Processing takes one to four weeks depending on the state. If you need it faster, some states offer expedited service for an extra fee. While you wait, you cannot get a Real ID, but you can renew your regular driver's license or state ID.

If you were born outside the U.S., contact the vital records office in that country or the U.S. embassy or consulate in that country. If you were born at sea or in U.S. territory, contact the Department of State.

Documents you cannot use

Photocopies, faxes, and digital images of documents are not accepted, even if they are certified. You must bring the original document or a certified copy issued by the government agency that holds the record.

School IDs, work IDs, and library cards do not count as proof of citizenship or photo ID in most states. A PO box address does not count as proof of residence. Expired documents are not accepted for proof of address, though they are accepted for photo ID and citizenship.

Documents in languages other than English must be accompanied by an official English translation. A translation you make yourself or a translation from an online tool does not count.

How to prepare before you go to the DMV

Check your state's DMV website and write down which documents it accepts — some states have shorter lists than others. Gather your documents and make sure they meet the requirements: originals or certified copies, not expired (for address), and in English or with an official translation.

If you are missing a document, order it now. A birth certificate takes one to four weeks. A certified copy of a name-change document takes one to two weeks. Plan ahead so you do not have to make multiple trips to the DMV.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one, even if it is expired. Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it. Some states also ask for your signature on file, so be ready to sign in front of the DMV staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital photo of my documents instead of bringing the originals?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. Digital images, photocopies, and faxes are not accepted, even if they are clear or notarized. You must bring the physical document to the DMV office.

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

It will not be accepted. You need a certified copy with a raised seal, embossed seal, or official stamp from the vital records office. Hospital-issued birth certificates and photocopies do not have these seals. Order a certified copy from your state's vital records office.

Can I use a lease or rental agreement as proof of address if it does not have my name on it?

No. The document must show your full name and current street address. If your lease is in a roommate's name, bring a utility bill or bank statement in your name instead. If you recently moved, bring a document from your old address plus proof of the move.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You do not need to bring the card itself, but you will need to provide your Social Security number. You can write it down or bring a document that shows it, such as a tax return or benefit letter. Check your state's DMV website to see what it prefers.

What if my name on my documents does not match my current legal name?

Bring the document with the old name plus an official document showing the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name on your Real ID. Make sure the name-change document is an original or certified copy.