The documents you need depend on which state you live in, but the core list is the same everywhere

To get a Real ID, you will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and proof of lawful presence in the United States. Your state's DMV or equivalent agency will tell you which specific documents they accept—some states take a passport, others do not; some take a utility bill for address, others require a lease or mortgage statement. The fastest way to know exactly what your state wants is to visit your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID document list, or call your local DMV office before you go.

You cannot submit documents by mail or online for a Real ID. You must appear in person at your DMV or equivalent office. Bring originals, not copies—staff will verify them and may keep some on file. Some states let you renew a Real ID by mail if you already have one, but a first-time Real ID always requires a visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You need four types of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and proof of lawful presence, though your state's DMV decides which documents in each category it will accept.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents your state takes, because rules vary—a passport works in some states but not others.
  • You must appear in person with original documents; no state accepts mailed or online submissions for a first Real ID.
  • Processing time varies by state, but most Real IDs are issued within two to four weeks after your visit.

Proof of identity documents your state will accept

A valid passport (U.S. or foreign) is the strongest proof of identity and is accepted in all states. A passport card counts. If you do not have a passport, your state will accept other documents—typically a driver's license from another state, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card (green card). Some states also accept a U.S. birth certificate, though it is weaker proof and may require a second identity document alongside it.

The document must not be expired, though some states allow a grace period of a few months past expiration. Check your state's list before you go, because one state may accept an expired military ID and another may not. If your name has changed since the document was issued—through marriage, divorce, or legal name change—bring proof of that change as well, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Proof of Social Security number

Your Social Security card itself is the easiest proof. If you do not have it or cannot find it, your state will accept a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a pay stub, or a Social Security statement (which you can order free from ssa.gov). Some states also accept a tax return or a letter from the Social Security Administration.

The document must show your full name and full Social Security number. If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration before you can get a Real ID—the DMV cannot issue a Real ID without one.

Proof of address

Your state wants to see that you live where you say you do. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common proof. A lease or mortgage statement works. Some states accept a bank statement, a credit card statement, or a government letter (such as a tax notice or benefits letter) that shows your name and current address.

The document must be recent—most states require it to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. If you 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, ask your state DMV whether they accept a notarized letter from the bill holder confirming your address, because rules vary.

Proof of lawful presence in the United States

If you are a U.S. citizen, your passport or birth certificate serves as proof of lawful presence—you do not need a separate document. If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), your green card is your proof. If you have a visa, work permit, or other immigration status, bring the document that shows it.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a green card or valid visa, you cannot get a Real ID. Some states offer an alternative ID card for people without lawful presence, but it is not a Real ID and will not work for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight. Ask your state DMV what options exist for your immigration status.

What to bring on the day of your visit

Bring all original documents—do not rely on copies. Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. If you are renewing a Real ID (not getting one for the first time), you may be able to bring fewer documents; check your state's renewal rules. Bring your Social Security number written down in case you forget it, though you will need to prove it with a document anyway.

Some states require you to sign documents in front of staff, so be prepared to do that. Some states take a new photo at the DMV; others use your current license photo if it is recent enough. Bring glasses or contacts if you wear them for driving, because the photo must match how you look when you drive. Arrive early—Real ID appointments often book weeks in advance, and walk-in lines can be long.

How to find your state's specific document list

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "Real ID requirements." Most states have a downloadable checklist you can print and bring with you. If you cannot find it online, call your local DMV office—staff can tell you over the phone which documents your state accepts and whether you need an appointment.

Some states have different rules for different counties or regions, so confirm with the specific DMV office where you plan to go. If you are military or live overseas, your state may have different rules; ask whether you can use a military address or mail documents to a stateside address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring originals, or will copies work?

You must bring original documents. The DMV staff will examine them to verify they are real and may keep some on file. Copies are not accepted for a first Real ID, though some states allow copies for certain documents during a renewal.

What if my name on my documents does not match?

Bring proof of the name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If your name changed and you have not updated all your documents yet, bring the old document plus the proof of change, and the DMV will note it in their system.

Can I get a Real ID if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. You must have a Social Security number to get a Real ID. If you do not have one, explore through the Social Security Administration first. That process takes a few weeks, so plan ahead.

What if I lost my birth certificate or Social Security card?

You can order a replacement birth certificate from your state's vital records office and a replacement Social Security card from ssa.gov. Both take time, so order them early. In the meantime, you can use other documents from the accepted list—a passport, W-2, or pay stub—instead.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Most states now require an appointment for a Real ID. Check your state's DMV website to book one. Walk-in service may be available for other services but not for Real ID. If appointments are booked out, ask whether your state has a waitlist or whether you can try a different DMV location.