Documents You Must Have to Get a Real ID

A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. To get one, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and proof of your date of birth — though some of these can overlap on a single document.

Every state accepts the same types of documents, but the specific documents they will take vary slightly. For example, a passport counts as proof of identity and date of birth in all states, but a birth certificate counts as proof of identity in some states and only as proof of date of birth in others. Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents they accept in each category.

You will also need to be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. If you are not a citizen, you will need to bring your green card or another document showing your immigration status. Some states also accept certain visa types, so check your state's requirements before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring four types of proof: identity, Social Security number, address, and date of birth, though some documents count for more than one category.
  • A passport, birth certificate, and state ID all count as identity documents, but your state DMV decides which ones they will accept.
  • You need proof you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, such as a passport or green card.
  • Your address proof must be recent — usually from the last 60 days — and can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
  • You will pay a fee that varies by state, usually between $20 and $50 for a Real ID.

Proof of Identity Documents That Work

Your state will accept one of these as proof of identity: a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate, a state ID, 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 foreign passport if you are not yet a citizen.

The document must be unexpired or expired no more than a certain number of years — usually five years for a birth certificate and longer for a passport. Check your state's DMV website to confirm the expiration rules, because they differ.

If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born, not a photocopy or hospital record. The seal and signature must be visible on the document.

Proof of Your Social Security Number

You can bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement that shows your Social Security number. The document must be current — usually from the last year — and your name must match the name on your identity document.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one before you can get a Real ID. You can explore at your local Social Security office with your birth certificate and proof of identity.

Proof of Your Address

Your address proof must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail all work. The document must have your name and full address on it.

If you recently moved and do not have a recent document in your new name at your new address, bring two documents: one showing your old address and one showing your new address. Some states will also accept a notarized letter from a landlord or family member confirming your address if you cannot get an official document.

A cell phone bill, credit card statement, or insurance bill usually counts, but check your state's list first — some states are stricter than others.

Proof of Your Date of Birth

Your birth certificate is the most common proof of date of birth, but a passport, passport card, state ID, or driver's license from another state also work. The document must show your full date of birth and match the name on your identity document.

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — because of marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring both your birth certificate and the document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency

If you are a U.S. citizen, a U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest proof. You can also bring a birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship, or a military discharge paper (DD-214).

If you are a lawful permanent resident, bring your green card (Permanent Resident Card). Some states also accept certain visa types, such as an employment visa or student visa, but this varies by state. Check your state's DMV website to see if your visa type is accepted.

If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, you cannot get a Real ID. You may be able to get a standard state ID instead, which does not meet federal standards but can be used for some purposes.

What to Bring to the DMV and What Happens Next

Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work. Bring your Social Security card or the document showing your number, your birth certificate or passport, your address proof, and your proof of citizenship or residency. You will also need to fill out your state's Real ID process form, which you can usually read from the DMV website or fill out at the office.

At the DMV, staff will check that all your documents are acceptable and that your name, address, and date of birth match across all of them. They will take a new photo and your fingerprints. You will pay the fee, which varies by state but is usually between $20 and $50. Processing time varies — some states issue the card the same day, while others mail it within two to four weeks.

If any of your documents are missing or do not match, the DMV will tell you what else you need to bring. You can go back with the missing documents, or in some cases you can mail them in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID or can I use a regular state ID?

A Real ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting May 7, 2025. If you do not plan to fly or visit federal buildings, a regular state ID works for most other purposes, such as driving or opening a bank account. Check what you actually need before you go to the DMV.

What if my name on my documents does not match exactly?

Small differences like a middle initial or a nickname usually do not matter, but the DMV staff will decide. If you have a legal name change, bring the court order or marriage certificate that shows the change. If documents have spelling errors, bring the original document and ask the DMV what to do.

Can I renew my Real ID by mail or online?

Most states allow mail or online renewal if your Real ID is not expired and you have not changed your address or name. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal process. If you need to update information, you usually have to go to the office in person.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to four weeks and costs $10 to $30. In the meantime, you can use a passport or passport card as proof of identity and date of birth instead.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card or just proof of the number?

Either works — you can bring your actual Social Security card or any document that shows your number, such as a pay stub or tax return. You do not have to carry your Social Security card with you, so bringing a pay stub or bank statement is fine.