The Essential Pennsylvania REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to PennDOT

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, wasted trip to a PennDOT Driver License Center is arriving without the proper documentation. When applying for a driver's license or learner's permit, especially a REAL ID-compliant one, the document requirements are very specific and strict.

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (marked with a gold star) or another federally approved form of identification (like a U.S. passport) to board domestic flights or enter secure federal facilities. To get your first REAL ID, you must apply in person and provide a series of documents to prove your identity.

This checklist will ensure you arrive at your appointment with every piece of paper you need for a quick and successful visit.

The REAL ID Document Requirements

To be issued a REAL ID, you must present original or certified documents proving your identity. Photocopies and laminated documents are not accepted. You will need to bring documents from four distinct categories.

1. Proof of Identity (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide one original or certified document that proves your identity.

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

Original or certified copy of a U.S. Birth Certificate with a raised seal.
Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (N-560 or N-561).
Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570).
For non-U.S. citizens, you must provide original, valid immigration documents.

What if my name has changed? This is a critical point. If your current legal name is different from the name on your proof of identity document (due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or a court order), you must show a legal document linking the names. For example, you would need to bring your birth certificate AND your official, government-issued marriage certificate. If you have had multiple name changes, you must provide the documentation for each change to create a clear "paper trail" from your birth name to your current name.

You must provide your original Social Security card. It must be signed. Laminated or metal cards are not accepted.

The ONLY Acceptable Document is:

Your original Social Security card.

If you cannot find your card, you will need to request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before you go to PennDOT.

3. Proof of Pennsylvania Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

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

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

Current, unexpired PA driver's license or ID card.
PA vehicle registration card.
Auto insurance card.
A computer-generated utility bill (electric, gas, water, etc.) showing your name and address.
Tax records (W-2 form, property tax bill).
Lease agreement or mortgage documents.
Bank statement or credit card statement.
A weapons permit (for U.S. citizens).

4. Proof of Signature (Provide ONE Document)

For some applications, you may be asked to verify your signature. This can often be satisfied by one of the documents you are already bringing.

Acceptable Signature Documents Include:

Your signed Social Security card.
A valid, unexpired U.S. passport.
A valid, unexpired Pennsylvania driver's license or ID card.

Final Checklist for Your PennDOT Visit

[ ] ONE proof of identity (with name change documents if needed).
[ ] ONE proof of Social Security (your original, signed card).
[ ] TWO proofs of Pennsylvania residency from different sources.
[ ] ONE proof of signature.
[ ] Payment for the required fees (check, money order, or credit/debit card).
[ ] For a permit, the completed DL-180 and DL-180TD (for teens) forms.

To be absolutely sure, PennDOT offers an excellent Document Checklist Tool on their website. Use it before you leave home to create a personalized list based on your specific situation. A few minutes of preparation will save you hours of frustration.