AptKeysLegal · Important documents
Getting a state ID or driver's license
You'll need
- Proof of your full legal name and date of birth, like a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of your Social Security number: the card, or a W-2, SSA-1099, non-SSA-1099 or pay stub showing it
- Two proofs of where you live, like a lease, bank statement or official mail
- Proof of lawful status
- The fee (it varies by state)
- A checklist from your state's licensing agency website
What to know
- Go to your state's driver's licensing agency website first. It lists exactly which documents it requires, and states can add requirements to the federal minimum. DHS's REAL ID page has a map that links to every state's and territory's DMV, plus a quick quiz on whether you're ready to fly.
- Gather the documents. For a REAL ID, you'll need at least proof of your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address and lawful status.
- No Social Security card? DHS says a W-2, an SSA-1099, a non-SSA-1099 or a pay stub with your name and Social Security number can verify it. Your state may still have its own rules, so check its list.
- Ask for a REAL ID-compliant card if you'll fly. Every state now issues them. A compliant card has a marking at the top, usually a star. Without one, it won't be accepted for boarding a commercial flight.
- Make an appointment if your state offers them, and bring every document on your state's list. For the photo, a religious head covering is allowed if it doesn't hide your face or cast a shadow.
- Keep your temporary paper license if they give you one, but don't count on it at the airport. TSA doesn't accept a temporary driver's license as ID.
- When the card comes, check that your name and date of birth are right, then store your documents together somewhere safe.
Watch out Since May 7, 2025, airports no longer accept state licenses and IDs that aren't REAL ID-compliant. You need a compliant card or another accepted ID, like a passport. Since February 1, 2026, travelers without an accepted ID can pay a $45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID, but if TSA can't verify who you are, you won't get through the checkpoint.
Dad note Make a folder for your birth certificate and Social Security card. Know where it is. You'll need it more than you think.