The documents you need depend on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or changing your address

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof that you are who you say you are — but the specific documents that count vary by state and by your situation. A document that works in one state may not work in another. Before you go to the DMV or your state's licensing office, check your state's official website to see which documents they accept, because the list changes and what worked last time may not work this time.

The three categories below cover what most states ask for. Your state may require additional documents — for example, if you're changing your name, getting a REAL ID-compliant license, or proving you're a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. Start with your state's DMV website and search for "documents needed for driver's license" or "what to bring to the DMV."

Key Takeaways

  • You will need one document proving who you are (like a passport or birth certificate), one proving where you live (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID.
  • A REAL ID-compliant license requires a passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID — a regular ID or student ID will not work.
  • If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to bring proof of lawful residency, which varies by immigration status and state.
  • Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies, unless your state's website specifically says photocopies are acceptable.
  • Check your state's DMV website before you go, because accepted documents and fees change, and some offices require you to book an appointment.

Proof of identity: what counts as a valid ID document

Most states accept a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID card as proof of identity. Some states also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or foreign passport with a visa. A school ID, work ID, or credit card does not count as proof of identity for a driver's license, even if it has your photo on it.

If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official copy — a photocopy or a hospital birth certificate will not work. If your birth certificate is from another country, you may need to bring a certified English translation along with the original. Check your state's DMV website to see whether they accept foreign birth certificates and what translation they require.

If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, some states will accept a combination of documents — for example, a school ID plus a Social Security card plus a medical record with your name and date of birth. The exact combinations vary by state, so call your local DMV office or check their website before you gather documents.

Proof of residency: documents that show where you live

Most states accept a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement that shows your current name and address. The document usually has to be dated within the last 30 to 60 days, though some states accept older documents. A few states also accept a property tax bill, insurance bill, or government mail with your address on it.

If you recently moved and your name is not yet on a utility bill or lease, some states will accept a letter from your landlord or a notarized statement saying you live there. Others will accept mail from a government agency — for example, a tax refund letter or a notice from your state's unemployment office. Check your state's list before you move forward, because what counts as proof of residency varies widely.

If you live with someone else and your name is not on the lease or utility bill, ask the person whose name is on it whether you can use their document. Some states require the document to be in your name only; others allow a shared document if you bring additional proof that you live at that address, such as a piece of mail addressed to you there.

Social Security number and tax identification

Every state asks for your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will need to bring the card itself or a document that shows the number — a photocopy of your Social Security card is usually acceptable. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring your ITIN card or a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN.

If you have never had a Social Security number and are not may be able to access for one, some states have alternative processes. Call your state's DMV to ask what you can bring instead. Do not assume you cannot get a license — ask first.

REAL ID-compliant licenses: additional documents you may need

If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (the kind with a star on it that works for domestic air travel and federal building entry), you will need to bring proof of identity that meets federal standards. A passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID card works. A regular ID, school ID, or work ID does not.

You will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of your current legal name if it has changed since your birth certificate was issued. If your name changed because of marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order along with your birth certificate.

REAL ID requirements are federal, but each state decides how to enforce them. Some states charge extra for a REAL ID license; others do not. Check your state's DMV website to see whether REAL ID is required where you live and what it costs.

If you are not a U.S. citizen: documents proving lawful residency

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to bring proof that you are lawfully present in the United States. The documents that count depend on your immigration status. A valid passport with a visa, a green card, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) document, or a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) approval notice all work in most states.

Some states also accept an I-94 arrival/departure record, an I-797 notice of action from USCIS, or a state-issued ID from another state. The exact list varies by state and changes as immigration law changes. If you are unsure whether your document will work, call your state's DMV office and describe what you have. Bring the original document, not a photocopy.

A few states have different rules for people with certain immigration statuses. For example, some states issue licenses to people with DACA status but not to people with TPS. Check your state's DMV website or call them directly to find out whether you can get a license and what documents you need.

What to bring: originals, certified copies, and what not to bring

Bring original documents or certified copies. A photocopy is usually not acceptable unless your state's DMV website specifically says it is. A certified copy is a copy made by the government agency that issued the original — for example, a certified copy of your birth certificate from your state's vital records office, or a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk.

Do not bring laminated documents. Some states will not accept them because they cannot verify the document's security features. If your birth certificate or Social Security card is laminated, ask the issuing agency for a replacement before you go to the DMV.

Bring all documents in English or with a certified English translation. If a document is in another language and you do not have a certified translation, the DMV office may turn you away. Some DMV offices can direct you to a translator; others cannot. Call ahead and ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No, not in most states. You need an official certified copy from your state's vital records office or the county where you were born. A photocopy or a hospital birth certificate will not work. Order a certified copy online or by mail from your state's vital records office — it usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Call your state's DMV office and ask what you can bring instead. Some states accept an ITIN card or a letter from the IRS. Others have different rules depending on your immigration status. Do not assume you cannot get a license — the rules vary by state, and the DMV can tell you what options you have.

Do I need a REAL ID license, or can I get a regular one?

It depends on what you plan to do. A REAL ID license is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings starting in 2025. If you do not fly or enter federal buildings, a regular license works. Check your state's DMV website to see whether REAL ID is required in your state and what the cost difference is.

What if my name on my documents does not match?

Bring documents that show the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring both your old name document (like your birth certificate) and your new name document (like a marriage certificate). The DMV will use these to confirm that you are the same person.

Can I use a lease agreement as proof of residency if my roommate's name is on it?

Some states allow it if you bring additional proof that you live there, such as mail addressed to you at that address. Other states require the document to be in your name only. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out what they accept.