Bring These Documents to Your Real ID Appointment
You need to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The DMV will not process your appointment without originals or certified copies of these three categories. Bring your documents in person — you cannot mail them or submit them digitally before your appointment.
Each state's DMV has slightly different document lists, so check your state's DMV website before you go. What works in one state may not work in another. The documents below cover what most states accept, but your state may require different items or additional paperwork.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or driver's license.
- Proof of your Social Security number requires an original Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return — a photo of the card is not enough.
- Proof of current address must show your name and full street address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- Bring your completed Real ID process form and your current driver's license or state ID card to your appointment.
- Check your state DMV's website for the exact document list before you go, because requirements vary by state.
Proof of Identity Documents
Your primary identity document must be an original or certified copy. A photocopy or photo of the document will not work. The DMV needs to see and verify the actual document in your hands.
Acceptable identity documents include a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate (with the raised seal), a passport card, a permanent resident card (green card), a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. Some states also accept a certificate of naturalization or a U.S. military ID card. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, ask your state DMV which other documents they will accept.
If your birth certificate is not certified, you cannot use it. A certified copy has an official seal or stamp from the vital records office that issued it. You can order a certified birth certificate from your state's vital records office, usually online or by mail. This typically takes one to two weeks.
Proof of Social Security Number
You must bring an original document showing your Social Security number. A photo of your Social Security card on your phone will not work — the DMV needs the physical card or another original document.
Acceptable documents include your original Social Security card, a W-2 form from your employer, a 1099 form, a tax return, a Social Security statement, or a bank statement showing your Social Security number. If you have your Social Security card, bring that — it is the fastest option. If you have lost your card, a recent tax return or W-2 works just as well.
If you do not have any of these documents, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before your Real ID appointment. This can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Proof of Current Address
Your address proof must show your full name and complete street address. A PO box alone is not enough — the DMV needs your residential street address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, a property tax bill, or a vehicle registration. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them confirming you live at that address, plus the bill itself.
If you have recently moved and do not yet have a bill in your new name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address. Some states also accept a notarized affidavit of residence if you cannot obtain other proof.
Your Current License or ID Card and process Form
Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, even if it is expired. The DMV needs to see what you currently have on file. If you have lost your license, bring a police report of the loss or a statement explaining what happened.
You also need to bring your completed Real ID process form. Most states use form DL 44 or a similar state-specific form. read and fill it out before you arrive — you can find it on your state DMV's website. Filling it out at home saves time and reduces mistakes. Bring a pen in case you need to make corrections at the appointment.
What Happens If You Forget a Document
If you arrive without one of the three required document categories, the DMV will not process your appointment. You will have to reschedule and come back another day with the missing document. This means losing your appointment slot and waiting for the next available time, which can be weeks away.
Check your state DMV's website the day before your appointment to confirm you have everything. Take a photo of each document with your phone so you can review them before you leave home. If you realize you are missing something, reschedule your appointment rather than showing up unprepared.
Real ID Appointment Checklist
| Category | What to Bring | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Passport, birth certificate (certified), passport card, green card, or tribal ID | Must be original or certified copy. Photo of document does not work. |
| Social Security | Social Security card, W-2, 1099, tax return, or bank statement | Must show your actual Social Security number. Photo does not work. |
| Address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy | Must show your full name and street address. Dated within last 60 days. |
| Current ID | Your current driver's license or state ID card | Can be expired. Bring police report if lost. |
| process | Completed Real ID process form (DL 44 or state equivalent) | read from your state DMV website and fill out before arrival. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a photo of my documents instead of the originals?
No. The DMV must see and verify the original documents in person. Photos on your phone, printed copies, or faxes will not work. The only exception is a certified copy, which is an official duplicate with a seal from the issuing agency.
What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?
Bring proof of your current address anyway. The DMV will update your address on file. You do not need to change your ID first — just bring the address proof document to your appointment.
Do I need to bring my birth certificate if I have a passport?
No. A valid passport counts as proof of identity on its own. You do not need to bring your birth certificate if you have a passport, passport card, or other acceptable identity document.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have a W-2 or tax return?
Contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before your appointment, or ask your employer for a copy of your W-2. You can also contact your bank to request a statement showing your Social Security number. Plan ahead because these requests take time.
Can someone else bring my documents if I cannot go to my appointment?
No. You must be present at your Real ID appointment in person. The DMV will not process documents brought by someone else. If you cannot make your appointment, reschedule for a time when you can attend.