The Documents You'll Need to Bring

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and proof of your date of birth. Most people bring a single document that covers more than one requirement—for example, a birth certificate proves both identity and date of birth. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the federal standard is the same everywhere.

You cannot submit documents by mail or online. You must appear in person at your state's DMV or equivalent agency with the originals or certified copies. Photocopies and digital photos do not count. Bring the actual documents, not pictures of them on your phone.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies of documents—photocopies and photos on your phone will not be accepted.
  • A birth certificate or passport covers both identity and date of birth, so you may need fewer documents than you think.
  • Your proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • You must appear in person at your state DMV with all documents; there is no online or mail-in option.
  • Processing times vary by state, but most Real IDs are ready within two to four weeks.

Proof of Identity

For proof of identity, bring one of these documents: a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). If you were born outside the United States, your birth certificate must be a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the country where you were born, not a photocopy or a document you printed yourself.

A driver's license or state ID card does not count as proof of identity for Real ID purposes, even though it is an ID document. The DMV needs to see a document that proves who you are before they issue you a Real ID. If you have a passport, bring that—it satisfies both the identity requirement and the citizenship requirement at once.

Proof of Social Security Number

Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. The document must show your full nine-digit number. A tax return works if your Social Security number is visible on it.

If you have lost your Social Security card and do not have any of these documents, you will need to request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV. This takes about two weeks. You cannot get a Real ID without proof of your Social Security number.

Proof of Address

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. The document must have your name and your current street address on it.

A cell phone bill counts only if it shows your street address, not just a mailing address. A PO box does not count as proof of address. If you recently moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or mortgage statement instead. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask them for a statement from the utility company showing both names, or bring a lease with your name on it.

Proof of Date of Birth

A birth certificate, passport, or passport card proves your date of birth. If you are bringing a birth certificate for identity, it covers this requirement too. You do not need a separate document. If your birth certificate is a photocopy or a document you printed from an online service, it will not be accepted—bring the certified copy issued by the vital records office.

If you were born in the United States, request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, contact the vital records office in that country. This can take several weeks, so order it early if you do not already have one.

Citizenship and Legal Presence

You must also prove you are a U.S. citizen or have legal presence in the United States. A U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all prove this. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card. If you are a citizen, your birth certificate or passport is enough.

If you have a visa or other immigration document, it may not be sufficient on its own. Check your state DMV's website to see the full list of documents that prove legal presence in your state, as some states accept additional documents beyond the federal minimum.

What to Bring to the DMV

Make a checklist before you go. You need: one document for identity (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate), one document for Social Security number (Social Security card or tax form), one document for address (utility bill or lease), and one document for date of birth (usually covered by your identity document). Bring the originals or certified copies—not photocopies.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. You will also need to fill out your state's Real ID process form, which you can usually read from the DMV website before you go, or you can fill it out at the DMV. Bring a pen. Some states charge a fee for a Real ID; check your state's DMV website to see the cost and whether you can pay online or must pay in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original or certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy, even if it is notarized, will not be accepted. If you do not have a certified copy, order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born before you go to the DMV.

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

Bring the utility bill with your current address. The DMV will update your address on your Real ID. If you recently moved, a lease or mortgage statement with your new address works just as well as a utility bill.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a pay stub instead?

Either one works. A pay stub, W-2, 1099, or tax return with your full Social Security number is acceptable. You do not have to bring your card if you have another document that shows your number.

Can I submit my documents by mail?

No. You must appear in person at your state DMV with your original documents. There is no mail-in or online option for Real ID. Check your state's DMV website for office hours and locations near you.

How long does it take to get a Real ID after I submit my documents?

Most states issue Real IDs within two to four weeks. Some states are faster; some take longer. Check your state DMV's website for the current processing time. You can usually track your process online using your driver's license number.