What documents and information you need for a Real ID

A Real ID requires you to show four things in person at your state's DMV or driver's license office: proof of identity, proof of a Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of lawful presence in the United States. You cannot mail these in or submit them online — you must appear in person with originals or certified copies. Most people can gather these documents in a few days, though some take longer to obtain.

The specific documents your state accepts vary slightly, but the categories are the same everywhere. Your state's DMV website lists which documents count in each category — for example, some states accept a passport card as proof of identity, while others do not. Check your state's list before you go, because showing up with the wrong document wastes a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must appear in person at your DMV with original documents or certified copies — no mail-in or online submission for Real ID.
  • You need one document from each of four categories: identity, Social Security number, current address, and lawful presence.
  • Your state DMV website lists which specific documents count, and the list differs by state.
  • Processing takes two to six weeks after you submit, and you cannot use a Real ID until it arrives in the mail.
  • If you do not have a document in one category, you can still renew your regular driver's license instead.

Proof of identity documents that work

For proof of identity, most states accept a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID card. Some states also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. A few states accept a foreign passport if you also show a visa or travel document. Your state DMV website shows the full list — do not assume your document works without checking.

Birth certificates must be certified copies from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born, not photocopies or hospital records. If you were born outside the U.S., you need a certified copy from the country's vital records office. Getting a certified copy takes one to four weeks by mail, so order early if you need one.

Proof of Social Security number

You can show your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a Social Security statement. The card itself is the fastest option if you have it. If you lost your card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration website or by phone at 1-800-772-1213 — replacements arrive in one to two weeks.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a Real ID. You can still renew a regular driver's license without one, but a Real ID specifically requires proof of a number.

Proof of current address

Your state accepts documents that show your name and current street address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement. The document must be recent — most states want something dated within the last 60 days, though a few allow up to 90 days. A phone bill, insurance statement, or government mail also works in most states.

If you moved recently and your utility bill still shows an old address, bring two documents: one showing your old address and one showing your new address, plus a lease or other proof that you moved. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring the bill plus a signed statement from them saying you live there, along with your own ID.

Proof of lawful presence in the U.S.

For lawful presence, U.S. citizens show a birth certificate or passport. Permanent residents show a green card. Refugees and asylees show their refugee travel document or asylum approval letter. Temporary protected status holders show their work permit or approval notice. Deferred action holders show their work permit.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have one of these documents, you cannot get a Real ID. You can renew a regular driver's license instead, which does not require proof of lawful presence. Check your state's DMV website for the exact documents it accepts in this category, because some states have additional options.

What happens when you go to the DMV

Bring all four documents, your current driver's license or ID, and a completed process form — your state DMV website has the form to read or fill out before you arrive. The DMV staff will check that your documents match the requirements, make copies, and take a new photo and signature. You pay a fee, which ranges from $30 to $100 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or upgrading an existing license.

You receive a receipt that day, but the actual Real ID card arrives by mail in two to six weeks. Until it arrives, your old license remains valid. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, which cuts the wait to one to two weeks.

If you are missing a document

If you cannot find one of the four documents, you have options. For proof of identity, you can explore for a state ID card if you do not have a driver's license, or you can get a passport. For proof of address, you can ask your utility company for a letter on company letterhead, or you can use a lease with your signature and your landlord's. For Social Security, you can order a replacement card or statement.

If you cannot get proof of lawful presence, you cannot get a Real ID, but you can still get a regular driver's license. Some states mark regular licenses as "not for federal purposes," which means you cannot use them to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you need to travel by air or enter a federal facility, you will need a passport or other federal ID instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID if I was born outside the U.S.?

Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. You need a certified copy of your birth certificate from the country where you were born, a passport, or a green card. Permanent residents can get a Real ID, but it will say "Permanent Resident" on it instead of "U.S. Citizen."

What if my name on my documents does not match?

Bring a document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your records and issue a Real ID with your current legal name. If you have not legally changed your name, the DMV cannot issue a Real ID until the names match.

Do I need to renew my Real ID every time I move?

No. Your Real ID is valid for eight years (or until age 65 if you are over 57) regardless of how many times you move. You do not need to update it when your address changes, though you can request a replacement card if you want the new address printed on it.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID from the DMV?

No. Most states require you to pick it up in person or sign a power of attorney form that allows someone else to collect it. Check your state DMV website for the exact rules, because a few states have different policies.

What if the DMV says one of my documents does not meet the requirements?

Ask the staff which requirement it does not meet and what document would work instead. If you disagree, ask to speak to a supervisor. You can also call your state DMV's customer service line before your next visit to confirm which documents are acceptable.