What Do I Need to Apply

Real ID

A license is one of the most common ways you prove who you are. If you are a first-time applicant, applying for a REAL ID, or updating the information on your current credential, you must provide the required documentation. Click on the List of Acceptable Documents button below for a complete list of accepted documents, or take the IDocument Guide Quiz to create a customized list of documents to bring.

LIST OF VALID PROOF DOCUMENTS

Create a personalized list of documents

HERE IS WHAT TO BRING WHEN APPLYING FOR A REAL ID

▶ Proof of Identity Document

One (1) identity document is required for a REAL ID. Proof of identity must be the original document or a certified copy with the appropriate seal. No photocopies are accepted.

Acceptable documents include:

✅ Birth Certificate

✅ Valid U.S. Passport

✅ U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate

❌ A driver’s license does not qualify as proof of identity.

❌ Hospital-issued birth certificates are not accepted.

Need a replacement?

To obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, contact the vital statistics agency in your birth state.

Those born in Kentucky may contact the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.

▶ Proof of Social Security Number

One (1) proof of Social Security Number is required for a REAL ID.

Acceptable Documents include

✅ Social Security Card

✅ SSNAP replacement printout

✅ W-2 Wage and Tax Statement OR 1099 (Most recently issued)

✅ Paycheck stub or statement

❌ Handwritten W-2 or paystub

❌ W-2 or paycheck stub without the whole Social Security number listed

Need a replacement?

Visit the Social Security Administration .

▶ Proof of Residency

Two (2) documents are required for the REAL ID.

Acceptable documents include:

✅ Utility Bill (dated less than 1 year)

✅ Telephone Bill (dated less than 1 year)

✅ U.S. Postal Service postmarked mail (dated less than 1 year)

✅ Kentucky Driver's license, instruction permit, or personal identification card

✅ Lease or rental agreement/ Mortgage statement

❌ Forwarded mail cannot be used as proof of residency.

Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents can apply for a REAL ID credential.

WHAT IF I NEED TO UPDATE OR REPLACE MY DOCUMENTATION?

Request a replacement Social Security card .
To obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, contact the appropriate agency in the state of your birth.
Those born in Kentucky may contact the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics .