The Essential Rhode Island REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to the DMV

There is nothing more frustrating than making a reservation, waiting at the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and being turned away because of a missing document. When it comes to getting a driver's license or permit, especially a REAL ID-compliant one, meticulous preparation is the key to success.

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (identified by a gold star) or another federally approved ID like a passport to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities. To get your first REAL ID, you must apply in person and provide a specific set of documents to prove your identity.

This checklist will ensure you arrive at your DMV appointment with every piece of paper you need for a smooth, one-trip visit.

The REAL ID Document Requirements

To be issued a REAL ID, you must present original or certified documents. Photocopies, scanned images, and laminated documents (like a Social Security card) are not acceptable. You will need to bring documents that prove the following four things.

1. Proof of Identity (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide one primary document that proves your full legal name and date of birth.

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

• U.S. Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy from a U.S. state or territory.
• Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
• Certificate of Naturalization.
• Certificate of Citizenship.
• Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card.
• Unexpired Foreign Passport with a valid, unexpired U.S. Visa and I-94.

What if my name has changed? This is a critical point that trips up many people. If your current legal name is different from the name on your identity document (due to marriage, divorce, or a court order), you must bring an original or certified legal document linking the names. For example, if you are now married, you would need to bring your birth certificate AND your official government-issued marriage certificate. If you've been divorced and changed your name back, you'll need the divorce decree. You must show the full "paper trail" of every name change.

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

You must provide a document that shows your full Social Security number (SSN). The document must be the original.

Acceptable Documents Include:

• Social Security Card: This is the best and most direct option. It cannot be laminated.
• W-2 Form from within the last year that includes your name, address, and full SSN.
• 1099 Form from within the last year that includes your name, address, and full SSN.
• Pay stub from within the last 60 days that includes your employer's information and your full SSN.

3. Proof of Rhode Island Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

You must provide two different documents from two different sources that prove you live at a physical address in Rhode Island. P.O. boxes are not acceptable. Both documents must show your name and your current RI residence address and must be dated within the last 60 days.

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

• Utility Bill (electric, gas, water, cable, internet, etc.).
• Personal check or bank statement.
• Payroll check or stub from an employer.
• Insurance policy document for your home or car.
• Property tax bill for your RI residence.
• Current lease or rental agreement.
• Official mail from a federal, state, or local government agency.
• Court documents.
• RI vehicle registration.

For Minors: If you are under 18 and the residency documents are in a parent's or guardian's name, that person must accompany you and sign a residency affidavit at the DMV. They will need to present their own two proofs of residency.

Final Checklist Before You Go to the DMV

• [ ] DMV Reservation: You must have an appointment.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity (with name change documents if necessary).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number (original, unlaminated).
• [ ] TWO proofs of Rhode Island Residency from different sources, dated within 60 days.
• [ ] The completed License/ID/Permit Application (Form LI-1).
• [ ] For a teen permit, your original Driver's Education Certificate.
• [ ] Payment for the required fees (check, money order, or credit/debit card).

To be absolutely certain, the Rhode Island DMV website has an official Document Checklist Tool. It is highly recommended that you use this tool to generate a personalized list for your specific situation before you leave home.