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 W-2 form. Documentation showing your residency, including utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements, is also required. These supporting documents ensure compliance with federal standards and verify your eligibility for a Real ID.
Introduction to Real ID and Its Purpose
The Real ID is a federally mandated identification standard designed to enhance security and prevent identity fraud. It serves as an accepted form of identification for boarding domestic flights and accessing federal facilities. Your application for a Real ID requires specific supporting documents to verify identity, residency, and lawful status.
Overview of Real ID Identification Requirements
The Real ID application requires specific supporting documents to verify identity, residency, and lawful status. Your application cannot be processed without meeting these identification prerequisites.
- Proof of Identity - Present a valid, government-issued birth certificate or passport to verify your legal name and date of birth.
- Proof of Social Security Number - Provide your Social Security card or a tax document showing your SSN.
- Proof of Residency - Submit two recent utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements displaying your current address.
Primary Forms of Identification Accepted
The primary forms of identification accepted for a Real ID application include a valid, unexpired U.S. passport or a certified copy of a birth certificate. Applicants must present one of these documents to verify their identity officially.
A permanent resident card or an unexpired foreign passport with an approved I-94 form can also serve as primary identification. These documents prove lawful status and are essential to meet Real ID requirements.
Secondary Identification Documents
Secondary identification documents provide additional proof of identity required for a Real ID application. These documents support your primary identification and help confirm your identity credentials.
Acceptable secondary identification documents include a valid U.S. passport card, a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, or a Social Security card. Other options consist of military ID cards, a permanent resident card, or a foreign passport with a valid visa. Ensure the documents are current and issued by authorized agencies to meet application requirements.
Proof of Social Security Number
What supporting documents are required to prove your Social Security Number for a Real ID application? You must provide an original Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a pay stub showing your full SSN. These documents confirm your Social Security Number as part of the identification verification process.
Proof of Legal Presence in the United States
Proof of legal presence in the United States is a mandatory requirement when applying for a Real ID. Acceptable documents verify an applicant's lawful status under federal and state laws.
- U.S. Birth Certificate - An original or certified copy issued by a U.S. state or territory confirms birth within the country.
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card - A valid, unexpired passport verifies citizenship and identity.
- Immigration Documents - Forms such as a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or valid visa with I-94 demonstrate lawful presence.
Applicants must ensure all documents are current and issued by authorized agencies to meet Real ID requirements.
Proof of State Residency
| Supporting Document | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of State Residency | Documents that verify the applicant's physical address within the state. These must include the applicant's name and current residential address to confirm residency status for Real ID application purposes. |
|
Acceptable Documents for Name Change Verification
To apply for a Real ID, verifying a name change is essential with specific supporting documents. These documents must clearly establish the link between the previous and current legal names.
- Certified Marriage Certificate - A government-issued marriage certificate that shows the name change resulting from marriage.
- Court Order for Name Change - An official court document authorizing a legal name change for reasons other than marriage or divorce.
- Divorce Decree with Name Change - A finalized divorce decree that includes a stipulation allowing the applicant to revert to a former name.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Document Rejection
Submitting the correct supporting documents is essential for a successful Real ID application. Common required documents include proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.
Many applicants face rejection due to expired documents or mismatched information. Ensuring all documents are current and consistent with application details helps avoid delays.
What Supporting Documents Are Required for a Real ID Application? Infographic
