Bring These Documents to Your Real ID Appointment

You will need to bring one document that proves your identity, one that proves your address, and one that proves your Social Security number. The state you live in may accept slightly different documents, but the federal requirement is the same: you must show proof of all three before you leave the office. Bring originals, not copies — staff will not accept photocopies or digital images on a phone.

Most people bring a passport, a birth certificate, and a Social Security card. If you do not have all three, you have other options, but you will need to know what your state accepts before you go. Showing up without the right paperwork means a wasted trip and a rescheduled appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original document proving your identity, your address, and your Social Security number — copies and phone images will not work.
  • A passport, birth certificate, and Social Security card cover all three requirements for most people, but your state may accept other documents.
  • Check your state's DMV website before your appointment to confirm which specific documents they accept, because requirements vary by state.
  • Bring your current driver's license or ID card, even if it is expired, because it speeds up the process.
  • If you do not have a Social Security card, bring a W-2, tax return, or Social Security statement instead.

Identity Documents That Work

Your state will accept a current or expired passport as proof of identity. A passport is the easiest option because it proves both your identity and your citizenship at the same time. If you do not have a passport, bring your current driver's license or ID card — even if it is expired within the last five years. An expired license still counts as identity proof.

If you do not have either of those, bring a birth certificate issued by a state or local vital records office. The certificate must show your name, date of birth, and place of birth. Hospital-issued birth certificates do not work. You can also bring a tribal ID card, a military ID, a permanent resident card, or a foreign passport with a visa, depending on what your state accepts.

Call your state's DMV before your appointment and ask which identity documents they take. Some states are stricter than others, and you do not want to arrive with the wrong paperwork.

Address Documents That Work

You need something that shows your current home address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days — if your electric bill is from six months ago, bring a newer one. Bank statements, insurance policies, and property tax notices also work if they show your current address.

If you have moved recently and your utility bill has not caught up, bring a lease or rental agreement instead. If you live with family and are not on the lease, ask the person whose name is on it to bring a notarized letter saying you live there, plus a copy of their ID. Some states accept this; others do not, so check first.

Do not bring a credit card statement or a phone bill — most states do not accept those. Your state's DMV website will list exactly which address documents they take.

Social Security Number Documents

The easiest option is your Social Security card itself. Bring the original card, not a copy. If you have lost your card or never received one, bring a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a recent tax return instead. Any of these documents shows your Social Security number and counts as proof.

If you do not have any of those, you can bring a Social Security statement. You can order one free from the Social Security Administration website or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The statement arrives by mail in about two weeks, so order it before your appointment if you know you will need it.

Some states also accept a benefit letter from Social Security, Medicare, or the Veterans Administration. Call your DMV to ask whether they take the document you have.

Documents to Bring Even If They Are Not Required

Bring your current driver's license or ID card, even though you are getting a Real ID version. Staff use it to look up your existing record and speed up the process. Bring your Social Security card even if you also have a W-2 or tax return — it is faster than looking up an alternative.

If you have changed your name because of marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have a passport, bring that too — it makes the whole appointment faster because the staff can verify your information against it.

Bring a pen. You will fill out a form at the appointment, and having your own pen means you do not have to ask for one.

What Happens If You Bring the Wrong Documents

If you arrive without the right paperwork, the staff will tell you what you are missing and send you home. You will have to reschedule your appointment and come back another day. This is why checking your state's DMV website before you go is worth the five minutes it takes.

If you are unsure whether a document will work, call your DMV office directly instead of guessing. The phone line may have a wait, but it is shorter than driving to the office and being turned away. Most DMV offices have a phone number on their website, and many now have online chat as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photo of my documents instead of the originals?

No. You must bring the original documents. Staff will not accept photos on your phone, printed copies, or scans. The only exception is if your state allows you to bring a certified copy of a birth certificate instead of the original, but you should confirm this with your DMV before your appointment.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

Bring a document that shows your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The staff will update your address during your appointment. You do not need to update your driver's license first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a recent tax return?

You do not have to, but it is faster if you do. A tax return works fine as proof of your Social Security number. If you do not have your card and do not have a tax return, a W-2 or Social Security statement will work instead.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your birth certificate from the country where you were born, plus a passport or visa showing you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. If your birth certificate is not in English, bring a certified English translation as well. Call your DMV to confirm they accept foreign birth certificates before you go.

Can I bring documents that are expired?

An expired driver's license or passport works fine as identity proof. An expired utility bill does not work as address proof — it must be dated within the last 60 days. Check the date on every document before you leave home.