The Documents You'll Need to Bring

You need to bring four types of documents to your state's DMV or ID office: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of lawful status. The exact documents that count for each category vary by state, but the categories themselves are federal requirements. Your state's DMV website lists which specific documents they accept—for example, some states take a utility bill for residency while others require a lease or mortgage statement.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The staff will examine them in person and may keep some documents on file. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation certified by a translator or the issuing agency.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card to prove your identity.
  • Proof of your Social Security number can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return—the document itself does not have to show the full number.
  • Proof of residency requires a document showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Proof of lawful status means a U.S. passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card, visa, or employment authorization document—requirements differ by citizenship status.
  • Check your state's DMV website before you go, because accepted documents vary significantly from state to state.

Proof of Identity Documents

For proof of identity, most states accept a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, state ID card, driver's license, or military ID. Some states also accept a tribal ID card, school ID, or employee ID if it includes a photo and signature. A few states accept a marriage certificate or divorce decree as a secondary identity document if paired with another form.

The document must be original or certified. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work—you need the certified copy from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, bring the original plus an English translation certified by an official translator.

Proof of Social Security Number

You do not need to bring your actual Social Security card, though you can. The DMV accepts a Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, tax return, or a Social Security Administration letter showing your number. Some states also accept a pay stub or bank statement if it displays your full Social Security number.

If you do not have any of these documents, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number. The letter typically arrives in one to two weeks.

Proof of Residency

Proof of residency must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) are the most common choice. A lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement also works. Some states accept a government check, paycheck, or insurance policy if it shows your address.

The document must be in your name and match the address you are providing to the DMV. If you recently moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or signed rental agreement for your new place instead. If you live with someone else and cannot get a document in your name, some states accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, confirming you live there.

Proof of Lawful Status

Proof of lawful status depends on your citizenship. U.S. citizens can bring a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. Permanent residents bring a permanent resident card (green card). Temporary visa holders bring their visa and passport. People with employment authorization bring an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and passport.

If you were born outside the United States, your birth certificate must be certified by the vital records office of the country or state where you were born. A photocopy will not work. If your document is in another language, bring the original plus an official English translation.

What to Bring in Person

Gather all four document types before you go to the DMV. Bring originals or certified copies—do not rely on photocopies or digital images on your phone. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, even though other documents work. Bring a completed process form, which you can read from your state's DMV website or fill out in the office.

Bring a recent color photo if your state requires one (some do, some do not—check ahead). Bring payment for the Real ID fee, which ranges from $10 to $30 depending on your state. Some states charge extra if you want a Real ID on a driver's license versus an ID card. Bring your current driver's license or ID card if you have one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not bring photocopies of your birth certificate or other identity documents. The DMV needs originals or certified copies. Do not assume your documents are certified—a certified copy has an official seal or stamp from the issuing agency. If you are unsure, contact the vital records office that issued the document.

Do not bring documents that are expired or do not match your current legal name. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your identity documents. Do not wait until your current ID expires to explore for a Real ID—the process takes time, and you may need your current ID while you wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents on my phone?

No. You must bring physical originals or certified copies to the DMV office. Digital images are not accepted for identity, Social Security, or residency documents. You can take a photo of your documents before you go as a backup, but the staff will examine the paper originals in person.

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

Bring the document that explains the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will review it alongside your identity documents. If your name changed through marriage, bring your original or certified marriage certificate. If it changed through divorce, bring your divorce decree.

Do I need to bring documents for my children, or just myself?

Each person who wants a Real ID must bring their own documents in person. Children need the same four types of documents as adults: proof of identity, Social Security number, residency, and lawful status. A parent or guardian can accompany them, but the child's documents must be original or certified.

What if I was born outside the United States and do not have a birth certificate?

Contact the vital records office in the country or region where you were born to request a certified copy. If you cannot obtain one, a U.S. passport or passport card counts as proof of identity and lawful status. Some states also accept a naturalization certificate or permanent resident card as a substitute.

Can I mail my documents to the DMV instead of going in person?

No. Real ID requires an in-person visit so the DMV can verify your documents and take a new photo. You cannot complete the process by mail or online. Schedule an appointment through your state's DMV website if appointments are required in your area.