The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but all states require proof of identity, proof of residence, and proof of citizenship or legal presence

Every state's Real ID office requires the same three categories of documents: something that proves who you are, something that proves where you live, and something that proves you are a U.S. citizen or lawfully present in the country. The specific documents accepted in each category vary by state. For example, some states accept a utility bill as proof of residence; others do not. You will need to check your state's DMV website to see which documents it accepts before you go in.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. If a document is not in English, bring the original plus an official English translation. Most people can complete the process in one visit if they bring the right papers the first time.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of residence (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal presence (such as a passport or naturalization certificate).
  • Each state accepts different documents within these three categories, so check your state DMV website before you visit.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies, not photocopies, and have English translations ready if any documents are in another language.
  • You will also need to provide your Social Security number and sign an process form at the DMV office.

Proof of identity documents

Proof of identity means a document issued by a government agency that shows your name, date of birth, and a photo or physical description. A valid passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license from another state all work. A birth certificate counts as proof of identity in most states, even though it has no photo.

If you do not have a passport or another state's driver's license, a birth certificate is usually the easiest document to get. You order it from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. The cost ranges from about $15 to $30, and processing takes one to three weeks by mail. Some states now offer expedited service for an extra fee.

Other documents that some states accept include a military ID, a tribal ID card, a school ID with a photo, or a work ID with a photo. Check your state's list before you assume your document will work.

Proof of residence documents

Proof of residence means a document that shows your name and your current address. A utility bill in your name (electric, gas, water, or internet) is accepted in most states. A lease or mortgage statement also works. Some states accept a bank statement, a credit card statement, or a government check sent to your address.

The document must be recent — usually dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease signed within the last 60 days usually counts. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask the DMV whether a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of the bill, will work. Policies vary by state.

Do not bring a PO box address as proof of residence. The DMV needs your physical street address.

Proof of citizenship or legal presence documents

Proof of citizenship or legal presence is the most important category because it determines whether you can get a Real ID at all. U.S. citizens can bring a passport, a passport card, a birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a certificate of citizenship. If you were born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, bring a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240).

If you are not a U.S. citizen but are lawfully present in the country, you can bring a valid visa, an employment authorization document (EAD), a green card, a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) document, or a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) approval notice. The document must not be expired.

If you do not have a passport and need a birth certificate, order it from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This is the same office you would contact for proof of identity. If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport, you will need to contact the U.S. State Department or the embassy or consulate of the country where you were born.

Your Social Security number and signature

You will also need to provide your Social Security number when you explore. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though the DMV can often look it up if you know the number. If you do not have a Social Security number and are not a U.S. citizen, ask your state DMV whether you can still get a Real ID; policies differ.

You will sign an process form at the DMV office. The form is usually short and asks for your name, address, date of birth, and the documents you are bringing. You do not need to fill it out ahead of time; the DMV staff will give it to you when you arrive.

How to find out what your state accepts

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "REAL ID requirements." The page will list exactly which documents your state accepts in each category. Some states have a PDF checklist you can print and bring with you. If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office and ask which documents they need.

A few states have different rules for different counties, so make sure you are looking at the rules for your county, not just your state. If you are explore in person at a DMV office in a different county than where you live, check that county's rules as well.

What to do if you do not have the documents

If you do not have a birth certificate, order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. If you do not have proof of residence, ask a family member or landlord whether you can use a document in their name plus a signed letter from them. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration to explore for one before you go to the DMV.

If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport, you will need to contact the U.S. State Department or the embassy or consulate of the country where you were born to get a passport or birth certificate. This process takes longer than ordering a domestic birth certificate, so plan ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy instead of an original document?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. A photocopy is not acceptable. If you cannot bring the original, contact your state DMV to ask whether a certified copy from the issuing agency will work.

What if my name on one document does not match my name on another?

Bring documents that show the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV staff will review them and tell you whether you need additional paperwork. If your name has changed multiple times, bring documents for each change.

Can I use a lease that is not yet signed by the landlord?

No. The lease must be signed by both you and the landlord. If you just moved in and do not have a signed lease yet, use a utility bill, a bank statement, or another document dated within the last 60 days.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You do not have to, but it makes the process faster. If you bring your number and the DMV can verify it, you do not need the card. If you do not have the card and cannot remember your number, the DMV can sometimes look it up using your other documents.

What if I was born in another country and do not have a U.S. passport?

Contact the U.S. State Department or the embassy or consulate of the country where you were born. You will need either a U.S. passport or a birth certificate from that country, plus proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawfully present. This process takes longer than explore for a Real ID, so start early.