What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

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 to your state's driver's license or ID office. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You cannot mail in your process — you must appear in person.

Real ID is a federal standard that makes your driver's license or state ID card acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. It is not a separate card; it replaces your regular license or ID. The documents below show what you will typically need. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states accept a wider range of documents than others, and a few have their own additions.

Key Takeaways

You must bring one document proving your identity, one proving your Social Security number, and one proving your current address — all in person at your DMV or ID office.
A passport or passport card counts as proof of identity and Social Security number together, so you may need only one additional document if you have one.
Utility bills, bank statements, and lease agreements all work as proof of address, but they must show your name and current address.
Your state DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, because some states allow documents others do not.
Bring your current driver's license or ID card, even though you are replacing it, because the office needs it to process your request.

Proof of identity documents

You need one document that shows your name, date of birth, and photograph. A U.S. passport, passport card, or passport book all work. So do a military ID, a state ID from another state, a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa.

If you do not have any of those, some states accept a certified copy of your birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. A few states also accept a school ID or employee ID if it includes your photograph. Check your state's list before you go, because acceptance of these secondary documents varies.

Proof of Social Security number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the most straightforward option. If you do not have your card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your number will work. Some states also accept a paystub with your full Social Security number printed on it.

If you have a U.S. passport or passport card, you do not need a separate document for this category — your passport counts as proof of both identity and Social Security number. That means you would only need to bring proof of address in addition to your passport.

Proof of current address

You need one document showing your name and your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works if it is dated within the last 60 days. So do a bank statement, a mortgage statement, or a lease agreement dated within the last 60 days. Some states also accept a property tax bill, an insurance bill, or a government check addressed to you.

The document must show both your full name and your street address. A PO box does not count as a current address for Real ID purposes. If you recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring the newest document you have plus something else that proves the move — a lease agreement for your new place, for example, or a utility bill from your new address even if it is dated within the last few days.

What to bring to the DMV

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even though you are getting a new one. The office needs it to look up your record and process your request. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation.

Bring your Social Security card if you have it, because it is the fastest proof. If you are bringing a tax form or paystub instead, make sure your full Social Security number is visible on the document. Some offices will not accept a paystub with the number partially redacted.

Bring all three categories of documents even if one document covers two categories (like a passport). The office staff will want to see that you have met each requirement. Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or bent on the way.

Documents you do not need

You do not need to bring a birth certificate unless your state specifically lists it as an acceptable identity document. You do not need a letter from your employer, a school transcript, or a reference letter. You do not need to bring proof of citizenship unless you are explore for a Real ID for the first time and your state requires it — most states do not.

You do not need to bring your Social Security card if you have another document showing your number. You do not need to bring multiple documents in each category. One identity document, one Social Security document, and one address document is all the office will ask for.

What happens after you submit your documents

The DMV office will scan or photograph your documents and return the originals to you. You will pay a fee (the amount varies by state) and have your photograph taken if you do not have a recent one on file. You will receive a temporary paper ID that you can use for travel while your Real ID card is being made.

Your new Real ID card will arrive by mail within two to four weeks in most states. The card will have a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner, which is the mark that shows it meets federal Real ID standards. If you need to travel before the card arrives, the temporary paper ID is valid for domestic flights and federal building entry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of bringing all three documents?

Yes. A passport card counts as both proof of identity and proof of your Social Security number. You would only need to bring one additional document showing your current address. Bring your current driver's license as well so the office can look up your record.

What if my address on my documents does not match my current address?

Bring the newest document you have showing your old address, plus a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days. A lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement with your new address will work. The office will update your address in the system when you explore.

Do I need to bring my birth certificate?

Only if your state specifically lists it as an acceptable identity document. Most states do not require it for Real ID. Check your state DMV website to see what documents your state accepts. A passport, military ID, or state ID from another state is usually enough.

Can I use a paystub as proof of my Social Security number?

Yes, if your full Social Security number is printed on it. Some paystubs have the number partially redacted or hidden. Call your state DMV before you go to confirm they will accept a paystub with your number visible, because a few states prefer a tax form or Social Security card instead.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring a tax return, W-2, 1099, or paystub showing your Social Security number instead. You do not need to replace your Social Security card before you get your Real ID. The DMV only needs to see proof of the number, not the card itself.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.