The documents Real ID requires

To get a Real ID, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your current address. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere. You cannot mail these in — you must appear in person at your state's driver's license office or equivalent agency.

Real ID is a federal standard that makes your driver's license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. It is not a separate card; it replaces your regular license. The process takes one visit, though some states have longer processing times after you leave.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID.
  • You need proof you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, which usually means a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers.
  • You must show proof of your current address using a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • You cannot explore by mail; you must visit your state's driver's license office in person with original documents, not copies.
  • Processing times vary by state from same-day to several weeks, so check your state's website before you go.

Identity documents that work

Your state will accept one of these to prove who you are: a valid passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, a tribal ID card, or a foreign passport with an approved visa or travel document. Some states also accept a school ID or employee ID if it has your photo and signature, though this varies.

The document must be original, not a copy. If your birth certificate is a certified copy (the kind with the state seal), that counts as original. A photocopy of a birth certificate does not. If you have lost your birth certificate, you can order a replacement from your state's vital records office before you go to the driver's license office — this usually takes one to two weeks by mail.

Proof of citizenship or legal residency

You need one document showing you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. A U.S. passport works for this. So does a birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, a certificate of citizenship, or a permanent resident card (green card). If you were born outside the United States, a consular report of birth abroad also works.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but are a lawful permanent resident, bring your green card or the I-797 approval notice that came with it. If you have a work visa or other temporary status, Real ID is not available to you in most states — check your state's rules, as a few states have different rules for visa holders.

Proof of your current address

You need one document showing where you live now. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work if they are dated within the last 60 days and show your name and address. A cell phone bill, insurance bill, or property tax statement also works if it meets the same requirements.

If you have moved recently and your name is not yet on a utility bill, a lease signed by you counts even if the utility company has not yet sent you a bill. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask them for a signed letter on their own letterhead stating that you live there, and bring that letter along with the bill. Some states accept this; others do not, so call ahead.

What to bring on the day you go

Bring all original documents — not copies — in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Bring your Social Security number or the card itself. Bring your current driver's license or ID if you have one. If you are renewing, bring that license too.

Bring the fee, which ranges from about $30 to $150 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or getting your first license. Most offices take cash, check, or card, but call ahead to be sure. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with proof of their identity and address.

Why originals matter and what happens if you forget

The driver's license office will not accept photocopies or photos of documents on your phone. They need to see the original document in your hand so they can verify the seal, signature, and security features. If you forget a document, you will have to go home and come back, or reschedule your appointment.

Some states let you upload documents to their website before your appointment, which speeds things up. Check your state's website to see if this option exists. If it does, you still need to bring the originals to your appointment — uploading is just a way to pre-verify them.

Processing time after you leave

Some states issue your Real ID on the spot. Others mail it to you within one to three weeks. A few take longer. Check your state's website before you go so you know what to expect. If you need your license for air travel, book your trip after you have the card in hand, not before.

If your state mails the card, ask for a temporary paper license at the office so you have something to show until the real one arrives. Not all states offer this, but it is worth asking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID to fly domestically?

Yes, as of May 2025, a standard driver's license is no longer accepted for domestic flights. You need a Real ID, a passport, a military ID, or a tribal ID. If you do not have one of these, you cannot board a domestic flight.

Can I get Real ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy of your birth certificate from your state's vital records office. If you were born outside the U.S., a passport or consular report of birth abroad works instead. If you have lost all proof of citizenship, contact your state's driver's license office to ask what documents they will accept.

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

Bring both documents. The driver's license office will see that you have moved and will update your address on your new Real ID. Your old ID and your new address proof together show the transition.

Can someone else pick up my Real ID for me?

This depends on your state. Some states mail it directly to you. Others let a family member pick it up if they bring a signed letter from you and their own ID. Call your state's driver's license office to ask what they allow.

What if I have a name change since my birth certificate?

Bring both your birth certificate and the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name on your Real ID to match your current legal name.