To apply for a Real ID, you must provide proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate, and proof of Social Security number, like a Social Security card or a W-2 form. You also need to submit two documents proving your residency, for example, utility bills or a lease agreement. These documents ensure compliance with the Real ID Act for domestic air travel and federal facility access.
What Documents Are Necessary for Real ID Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proof of Identity (e.g., valid passport, birth certificate) | Proof of identity for a Real ID application requires original or certified copies of documents such as a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, or a permanent resident card to verify legal identity and citizenship status. Applicants must also present a Social Security number and two proofs of residency, such as utility bills or lease agreements, to complete the documentation process. |
| 2 | Proof of Lawful Status (e.g., permanent resident card, U.S. visa) | Proof of lawful status for a Real ID application includes documents such as a valid permanent resident card, an unexpired U.S. visa accompanied by Form I-94, or a U.S. citizenship certificate. These documents must be original or certified copies to verify identity and legal presence in the United States. |
| 3 | Social Security Number Document (e.g., Social Security card, W-2, pay stub) | For a Real ID application, proof of your Social Security Number is required and can be provided through documents such as your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a recent pay stub displaying your SSN. These documents verify your identity and are essential to meet federal Real ID requirements for domestic travel and access to federal facilities. |
| 4 | Proof of State Residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement) | To apply for a Real ID, proof of state residency is essential and can be demonstrated through documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. These documents must include the applicant's name and residential address to satisfy state-specific residency requirements for Real ID issuance. |
| 5 | Name Change Documentation (if applicable: marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) | For a Real ID application, submitting proof of a legal name change such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is essential if your current name differs from the name on your primary identification. These official documents verify identity consistency and comply with Department of Homeland Security requirements for Real ID issuance. |
| 6 | Current Driver’s License or ID (if applying for renewal or upgrade) | A current driver's license or ID is essential for Real ID application when renewing or upgrading, serving as proof of identity and residency. This document must be valid or expired within a specific timeframe set by state regulations to qualify for the Real ID process. |
Understanding the Real ID Act: An Overview
The Real ID Act establishes federal standards for state-issued identification cards and driver's licenses to enhance security. Understanding the necessary documents ensures your application process for a Real ID is smooth and compliant.
- Proof of Identity - You must provide a valid birth certificate or passport as official evidence of your identity.
- Proof of Social Security Number - A Social Security card or W-2 form verifies your Social Security number for federal database matching.
- Proof of Residency - Two documents like utility bills or lease agreements confirm your physical address in the state issuing the Real ID.
Gathering these documents ahead of time streamlines your Real ID application and ensures adherence to federal requirements.
Primary Identification Documents Required for Real ID
Applying for a Real ID requires presenting primary identification documents that verify your identity and legal status. Essential documents include a valid birth certificate, U.S. passport, or permanent resident card. Your Social Security number and proof of residency must also be submitted to complete the application process.
Acceptable Proofs of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Status
Applying for a Real ID requires submitting acceptable proofs of U.S. citizenship or lawful status. These documents verify your identity and eligibility for a federally compliant identification card.
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card - Provides primary proof of U.S. citizenship for Real ID application.
- Birth Certificate - Must be an original or certified copy issued by a U.S. state, city, or territory to confirm citizenship.
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - Demonstrates lawful permanent resident status for those not born in the U.S.
Valid Forms of Social Security Number Verification
When applying for a Real ID, verifying your Social Security Number is essential to confirm your identity. Acceptable documents must clearly display your name and Social Security Number for official validation.
- Social Security Card - The original card issued by the Social Security Administration is the most straightforward form of verification.
- W-2 Form - A W-2 tax form showing your full Social Security Number can be used for verification purposes.
- Pay Stub - A recent pay stub containing your full or partial Social Security Number is acceptable as proof for Real ID application.
Proving Residency: Acceptable Documents for Address Confirmation
To apply for a Real ID, proving your residency is a crucial requirement. You must provide documents that confirm your current address within the state.
Acceptable documents for address confirmation include utility bills, such as electricity, water, or gas statements, dated within the last 60 days. Lease agreements or mortgage statements that clearly show your name and address are also valid. Official government correspondence, including tax documents or vehicle registration, can serve as proof of residency.
Special Considerations for Name Changes and Marriage
Applying for a Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and two documents verifying your residency. Name changes due to marriage or court orders must be supported by legal documents such as a marriage certificate or court order. Ensure these documents reflect the current legal name to avoid processing delays during the application.
Real ID Application Checklist: Document Summary
What documents are required for a Real ID application? A valid proof of identity, such as a certified birth certificate or a valid passport, is necessary. Proof of Social Security number and two proofs of state residency are also required to complete the application process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Real ID Documents
| Document Type | Common Mistakes to Avoid | Tips for Proper Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Submitting expired or damaged birth certificates; using photocopies instead of originals | Provide an original or certified copy of a birth certificate or a valid passport; ensure documents are in perfect condition |
| Proof of Social Security Number (SSN) | Submitting documents without SSN clearly visible; using non-official documents like pay stubs | Use an official SSN card, W-2 form, or SSA-1099 form that clearly displays the SSN |
| Proof of Residency | Presenting outdated bills or using mail not issued in applicant's name; submitting rental agreements without signatures | Provide recent utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements dated within the last 90 days and issued in your name |
| Proof of Legal Presence | Submitting expired visas or missing supporting immigration documents | Provide valid, unexpired immigration documents such as a permanent resident card, employment authorization document, or visa with I-94 |
| Application Form | Incomplete or incorrectly filled application forms; failure to sign the form | Fill out all required fields accurately and sign the application form before submission |
| General Tips | Relying on single documents when multiple proofs are needed; arriving without required documents; lack of understanding state-specific requirements | Check your state's Real ID checklist in advance; gather all required original documents; schedule appointments if mandatory |
Document Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
Non-U.S. citizens must present specific documents when applying for a Real ID to verify identity and lawful status. Essential documents include a valid, unexpired foreign passport with an approved visa and an I-94 arrival/departure record.
Proof of lawful presence can also be demonstrated with Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card) or Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document). Additionally, non-citizens need to provide proof of Social Security Number and two proofs of residency, such as utility bills or lease agreements.
What Documents Are Necessary for Real ID Application? Infographic
