Bring proof of citizenship or legal status, proof of your current address, and a valid form of ID

When you go to your DMV or state ID office to get a Real ID, you need to bring three categories of documents: something that proves you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, something that shows where you live right now, and a current ID that has your photo on it. The exact documents that satisfy each category vary slightly by state, but the categories themselves are the same everywhere.

Real ID is a federal standard that makes your driver's license or state ID card acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. You cannot get Real ID by mail or online — you must appear in person at your state's DMV or equivalent office, bring originals of these documents, and usually pay a fee that ranges from $20 to $50 depending on your state.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original document proving U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, such as a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
  • You need proof of your current address, which can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • Bring a current photo ID such as a passport, military ID, or your existing driver's license.
  • You must appear in person at your state DMV office with originals of all documents — photocopies are not accepted.
  • Processing times vary by state but typically take two to six weeks; some states offer expedited service for an additional fee.

Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status

This is the document that proves you have the right to be in the United States. The DMV will accept an original U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate issued by a state vital records office, a certificate of naturalization, a certificate of citizenship, or a valid permanent resident card (green card). Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Native American tribal document.

A birth certificate must be certified — meaning it has an official seal or raised stamp from the vital records office that issued it. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not work. If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport or green card, you will need to order a certified birth certificate from the country where you were born before you go to the DMV.

If you have a passport, bring the original. It serves as both proof of citizenship and a valid photo ID, so it covers two of your three requirements in one document.

Proof of your current address

The DMV needs to see that you actually live where you say you do. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, property tax records, or a government-issued document such as a voter registration card or tax return. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you have recently moved and your utility bill or lease is still in your old name or address, bring a letter from your landlord or a recent piece of mail from a government agency addressed to you at your new address. Some states accept a bank statement or insurance policy if it is recent enough and shows your current address.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, along with a copy of that bill. The letter should state that you live at that address. Rules on this vary by state, so call your DMV ahead of time if you are unsure.

A current photo ID

You need to bring an ID that has your photograph on it and is still valid. A U.S. passport, military ID, or your current driver's license all work. If you do not have any of these, some states accept a state ID card, a passport card, or a tribal ID. A few states will accept a school ID or work ID if it has your photo, but this varies — check with your state DMV first.

The ID does not have to be from your current state. If you are moving to a new state and your old driver's license is still valid, you can use it. If your ID has expired, most states will not accept it, so you may need to bring a passport instead.

What to bring in person to the DMV

Bring the originals of all your documents — the DMV will not accept photocopies. You will also need to fill out an process form, which the DMV provides at the office or sometimes online beforehand. Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. Some states ask you to bring your current driver's license or ID card as well, even if it is expired, so check your state's website before you go.

Bring a pen to fill out forms. If you wear glasses for driving, wear them when you have your photo taken. Bring payment for the fee — most states accept cash, debit, or credit card, but a few still require a check. The fee for a Real ID typically costs between $20 and $50, and some states charge extra if you want expedited processing.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring a Social Security card itself — the DMV will look up your number in their system using the information you provide on the form. You do not need to bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change document unless your name on your documents does not match. If your name differs across your documents, bring the legal document that explains the change.

You do not need to bring your old ID card or license if it is expired, though some states ask you to bring it anyway for their records. You do not need to bring a notarized copy of anything — the DMV wants originals. You do not need to bring proof of residency beyond the single document showing your current address.

If you cannot find one of your documents

If you do not have a certified birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to four weeks and costs $15 to $30. If you have lost your green card, you can explore for a replacement through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, but this takes several weeks. In the meantime, a valid passport will work as your proof of citizenship.

If you do not have a current photo ID at all, a passport is your best option because it covers both the citizenship requirement and the photo ID requirement. If you do not have a passport and cannot get one quickly, some states will accept a combination of documents — for example, a school ID plus a birth certificate — but this varies widely. Call your state DMV to ask what alternatives they accept before you make a trip to the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. The DMV requires an original certified birth certificate with an official seal or raised stamp. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not be accepted. You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born.

What if my address on my documents does not match my current address?

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. If the bill is in someone else's name, bring a signed letter from that person along with a copy of the bill. Call your DMV ahead of time to confirm what they will accept.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. The DMV will look up your Social Security number using the information you provide on the process form. You do not need to bring the card itself, but you should have your number memorized or written down.

How long does it take to get a Real ID after I explore?

Processing times vary by state, typically two to six weeks. Some states offer expedited service for an additional fee that can reduce the wait to one to two weeks. Check your state DMV website for current wait times before you explore.

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

A passport card is a valid photo ID and proof of citizenship, so yes, it works for Real ID. However, a passport card cannot be used for international air travel, only a full passport can. If you need both Real ID and international travel, a full passport is the better choice.