The Essential South Carolina REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to the DMV

There is nothing more frustrating than waiting at the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) only to be told you're missing a critical piece of paper. When it comes to getting a driver's license or beginner's permit, especially a REAL ID-compliant one, the document requirements are strict and non-negotiable.

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (identifiable by a gold star) or another federally accepted 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 specific set of documents to prove your identity and residency.

This checklist will ensure you arrive at your SCDMV appointment with every document you need for a quick and successful visit.

The REAL ID Document Requirements

To be issued a REAL ID, you must present original or government-issued certified documents. Photocopies and laminated documents (like Social Security cards) are not accepted. You will need to bring documents that prove the following.

1. Proof of Identity, Date of Birth, and U.S. Citizenship (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide one primary document from this list. It must show your full legal name and date of birth.

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

• Original or certified U.S. Birth Certificate (from the Bureau of Vital Statistics in your birth state). Hospital-issued certificates are not acceptable.
• Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
• Certificate of Naturalization.
• Certificate of Citizenship.

For Non-U.S. Citizens: You must provide your valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card or other valid immigration documents.

What if my name has changed? This is a very common issue. If your current legal name is different from the name on your identity document (due to marriage, divorce, or a court order), you must show a legal document that links the names. For example, you would need to bring your birth certificate AND your government-issued marriage certificate. If you have had multiple name changes, you must provide the certified documents for each change to create a clear "paper trail."

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

You must provide a document that proves your full Social Security number (SSN).

Acceptable Documents Include:

• Social Security Card: The original card is the best option. It cannot be laminated.
• W-2 Form that shows your full SSN.
• 1099 Form that shows your full SSN.
• Pay stub that includes your name and full SSN.
• Social Security Administration documents showing your full number.

3. Proof of South Carolina Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

You must provide two different documents from two different sources that prove you live at a physical address in South Carolina. P.O. boxes are not an acceptable address. Both documents must show your name and your current SC residence address and must be no more than 90 days old.

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

• Utility Bill (electric, water, cable, cell phone, etc.).
• Bank Statement or Credit Card Bill.
• Mortgage Bill or Lease Agreement.
• South Carolina Vehicle Registration or Title.
• Property Tax Bill.
• Pay stub with your address.
• Official mail from a school or government agency.

For Minors: If you are under 18 and do not have residency documents in your name, your parent or legal guardian must accompany you. They will need to provide two proofs of their residency, and their name must be on your proof of identity document (like your birth certificate).

Final Checklist Before You Go to the SCDMV

• [ ] SCDMV Appointment: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity, Date of Birth, and Citizenship (with name change documents if necessary).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
• [ ] TWO proofs of South Carolina Residency from different sources, dated within 90 days.
• [ ] The completed Application for Beginner's Permit, Driver's License, or Identification Card (Form 447-NC).
• [ ] For a teen permit, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign.
• [ ] Payment for the required fees (check, money order, or credit/debit card).

To be absolutely certain, the SCDMV website has an official United States Citizens' Document Checklist (Form MV-93) that you can download and review. A few minutes of preparation will save you the headache of a second trip.