The Essential South Dakota REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to Your Appointment

There is nothing more frustrating than making an appointment, waiting at a South Dakota driver exam station, and then being turned away because of a missing document. When applying for a driver's license or instruction permit, especially a REAL ID-compliant one, the document requirements are very specific and must be followed perfectly.

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (identifiable by a gold star on the card) 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.

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. Photocopies and laminated documents (like a Social Security card) are not accepted. You will need to bring documents that prove the following three things.

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

You must provide one primary document that proves your full legal name, date of birth, and lawful presence in the United States.

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

• Certified U.S. Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy from the vital records office in your birth state. Hospital-issued certificates are not acceptable.
• 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 record.

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 an original or certified legal document that links the names. For example, if you are now married, you would need to bring your birth certificate AND your official government-issued marriage certificate. You must show the complete "paper trail" of every name change.

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

You must provide a document that shows your full, nine-digit Social Security number (SSN).

Acceptable Documents Include:

• Social Security Card: The original, unlaminated card is the best option.
• W-2 Form.
• 1099 Form.
• Pay stub that includes your full name and full SSN.

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

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

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

• Utility Bill or hook-up order (dated within the last year).
• Financial documents like a bank statement, credit card bill, or mortgage statement (dated within the last year).
• Pay stub (dated within 60 days).
• South Dakota vehicle registration or title.
• Valid homeowner's, renter's, or auto insurance policy.
• Rental or lease agreement.
• Tax documents (W-2, property tax bill).
• Official mail from a school or government agency.

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 consent form. They will need to provide their own two proofs of residency, and their name must be on your proof of identity document (like your birth certificate).

Final Checklist Before You Go to the Exam Station

• [ ] Appointment: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity and Lawful Status (with name change documents if needed).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
• [ ] TWO proofs of South Dakota Residency from different sources.
• [ ] A completed South Dakota Driver License/ID Card Application.
• [ ] For a teen permit, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign the consent.
• [ ] Payment for the required fees (check or money order is preferred; some locations may accept cards).

To be absolutely certain, the South Dakota DPS website has official document guides and checklists. It is highly recommended that you review these before your visit to ensure you have everything you need.