The Essential Oregon REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to Your DMV Appointment

There's nothing more frustrating than making an appointment, waiting at the DMV, and then being turned away because you're missing a single piece of paper. When it comes to getting an Oregon driver's license or ID card—especially a REAL ID-compliant one—preparation is everything.

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (identifiable by a star in the corner) or another federally accepted form of identification, like a passport, to board domestic flights or enter secure federal facilities. [28] To get your first REAL ID, you must apply in person and provide a specific set of documents.

This checklist will ensure you arrive at the DMV with everything you need for a smooth and successful visit.

The REAL ID Document Requirements

To be issued a REAL ID, you must present original or certified documents to prove your identity. Photocopies, scanned images, or laminated documents are not acceptable. You will need to provide documentation for the following categories.

1. Proof of Identity and Lawful Presence (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide one primary document that proves your full legal name, date of birth, and lawful status in the U.S.

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

• Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card [28, 31]
• State-issued, certified copy of your U.S. Birth Certificate [28, 31] (Hospital certificates are not accepted).
• Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship [28, 31]
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad [28, 31]
• Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card [28]
• Valid, unexpired Employment Authorization Card [28]
• Unexpired Foreign Passport with a valid, unexpired U.S. visa and a valid I-94 [28]

What if my name has changed? This is a critical point. If the name on your primary identity document is different from your current legal name (due to marriage, divorce, court order, etc.), you must bring an original or certified legal document linking the names. For example, if you are married, you would need to bring your birth certificate AND your official government-issued marriage certificate. If you've been married multiple times, you may need to show the documents for each name change to create a clear trail. [28]

2. Proof of Social Security Number (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide proof of your full Social Security Number (SSN).

Acceptable Documents Include:

• Social Security Card: The physical card is the best option.
• W-2 Form [29]
• 1099 Form
• Pay stub that shows your full name and SSN [29]

Note: While the application allows you to verbally provide your number, which the DMV will verify electronically, it is always the safest bet to bring one of these physical documents with you in case there is a verification issue. [29]

3. Proof of Oregon Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

You must provide two different documents from two different sources that prove you live at a physical address in Oregon. P.O. boxes are not an acceptable address. Both documents must show your name and current residence address. [28]

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

• Utility bill or utility hookup order (issued within the last 60 days)
• Bank statement or credit card statement
• Rental or lease agreement with the signatures of the landlord and tenant [31]
• Oregon vehicle title or registration card
• Any item delivered by the USPS, FedEx, or UPS from a verifiable business or government agency
• Paycheck, pay stub, W-2, or 1099 form [31]
• Oregon voter notification card or profile report
• Unexpired professional license issued by a U.S. agency
• Medical or health benefits card
• Official mail from a school or government agency

What if I live with someone and the bills aren't in my name? The DMV provides an "Affidavit of Shared Residence" (Form 735-7480). The person you live with must come with you to the DMV, sign this form in front of a DMV employee, and provide their own two proofs of residency. [31]

Final Checklist Before You Go

• [ ] Make an Appointment or plan for standby service.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity/Legal Presence (with name change documents if needed).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
• [ ] TWO proofs of Oregon Residency from different sources.
• [ ] Your old driver's license or ID card, if you have one.
• [ ] Payment for the required fees (REAL ID costs an additional $30 on top of the standard license fee). [29, 43]

Use the DMV's official online document checklist tool before you leave to create a personalized list for your situation. A few minutes of preparation will save you hours of potential frustration.