What Documents and Information You Need to Get a Real ID

Gather These Documents Before You Visit

To get a Real ID, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but every state requires these three categories. You cannot complete the process without them, so collecting them before your appointment saves a trip back home.

Real ID is a federal security standard for driver's licenses and state ID cards. It lets you use your license to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. Most states began issuing Real IDs around 2009, and many have now made them the default for all new licenses. If you have not renewed your license recently, you may still have a non-compliant version.

Key Takeaways

You must bring one document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or current driver's license.
Proof of your Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return — the document itself, not a photocopy.
Proof of address requires a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current street address.
Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, because some states allow alternatives that others do not.
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work for identity or Social Security proof.

Identity Documents That Work

You need one document that proves who you are. A current driver's license, passport, or passport card all work in every state. If you do not have any of those, a birth certificate issued by a state or U.S. territory is accepted everywhere. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.

The document must be an original or a certified copy — a photocopy will not work. If your birth certificate is a photocopy, ask the vital records office in the county or state where you were born to issue a certified copy. This usually costs between $10 and $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail. Some states now offer certified copies through their websites.

If you were born outside the United States, bring the document that proves your legal status: a green card, employment authorization document, visa, or I-94 arrival record. Your state DMV website will list which documents it accepts for non-citizens.

Proof of Your Social Security Number

You must bring an original document showing your Social Security number. Your Social Security card itself is the simplest option. If you have lost your card or never received one, bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your full Social Security number. Bank statements and pay stubs do not work — the DMV needs a document issued by the government or your employer for tax purposes.

The document must be an original, not a photocopy. If you are bringing a tax return, bring the actual return you filed, not a transcript. If you do not have any of these documents, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment. This takes about two weeks and is free.

Proof of Your Current Address

You need one document showing your current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works in every state and is the most common choice. Your lease or mortgage statement also works. Government mail counts too — a property tax bill, voter registration card, or court document with your address will do.

The document must be recent, usually from the last 30 to 90 days, depending on your state. Check your state DMV website for the exact timeframe. If you have moved recently and your utility bill still shows an old address, bring a lease or mortgage statement instead. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them on the same bill, or bring a different document like a lease in your name.

Additional Information You Will Need

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one, even if it is not Real ID compliant. The DMV will use it to look up your existing record and speed up processing. If you do not have a current license, bring your name, date of birth, and any previous addresses you have lived at in the past five to ten years — your state will ask for this information on the process form.

You will also need to know your mother's maiden name and provide your signature. Some states ask for your phone number and email address. A few states require proof of your legal name change if you have been married or divorced — bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Your state DMV website lists what it needs for name changes.

What Happens If You Are Missing a Document

If you arrive at the DMV without one of the three required categories, you will not be able to complete your Real ID that day. The DMV cannot issue a Real ID without proof of identity, Social Security number, and address. You will need to go home, find the missing document, and schedule another appointment.

Some DMV offices allow you to come back the same day if you live nearby, but most require you to book a new appointment. To avoid this, check your state DMV website before you go and print the list of acceptable documents. Bring one extra document in each category if you have it — if your utility bill is borderline on the date requirement, having a second address proof means you are covered.

How to Find Your State's Specific Requirements

Every state DMV website has a page listing exactly which documents it accepts for Real ID. Search "[your state] DMV Real ID documents" to find it. Some states accept alternatives that others do not — for example, some states accept a tribal ID as proof of identity, while others do not. Your state's list is the final word on what will work.

Many state DMV websites also let you schedule your appointment online and upload photos of your documents before you go. This can speed up your visit. If your state does not offer this, call the DMV or visit in person to ask whether you have the right documents before making a formal appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office. A photocopy will not work. If you only have a photocopy, contact the county or state where you were born and request a certified copy.

What if my address on my lease does not match my ID?

Bring both documents. The DMV will use the lease as proof of your current address and update your license. You do not need them to match — the DMV is updating your record to reflect where you live now.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card or can I bring a W-2 instead?

Either one works. Bring whichever you have. If you bring a W-2 or tax return, it must be an original document, not a photocopy or transcript.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad as proof of identity, plus your green card, visa, or other proof of legal status. Your state DMV website lists which documents it accepts for non-citizens, so check there first.

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

No. The DMV only accepts a Social Security card, W-2, 1099, or tax return. Bank statements and pay stubs do not count. If you do not have any of these, request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration.

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.