The Essential Tennessee REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to Your Appointment

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, wasted trip to a Tennessee Driver Services Center is arriving without the proper documentation. When applying for a driver's license or learner 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) or another federally accepted form of identification, like a U.S. passport, to board a domestic flight or enter certain secure federal facilities. To get your first REAL ID, you must apply in person and provide a series of original or certified 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. Photocopies and laminated documents (like Social Security cards) are not accepted. You will need to bring documents that prove the following three things.

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence (Provide ONE Document)

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

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

Official, government-issued Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy from the vital records office in your birth state. Hospital-issued certificates or photocopies are not acceptable.
Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570).
Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561).
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 proof of 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 official, 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."

You must provide a document that proves 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 (from within the last year).
1099 Form (from within the last year).
Pay stub that includes your full name and full SSN (from within the last year).

3. Proof of Tennessee Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

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

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

Current utility bill (electric, water, gas, etc.) dated within the last 4 months.
Bank statement (dated within the last 4 months).
Current vehicle registration or title from Tennessee.
Current rental or mortgage agreement or receipt.
Pay stub (dated within the last 4 months).
Current homeowner's or renter's insurance policy.
Official mail from a federal, state, or local government agency.

For Minors: If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must provide the two proofs of residency in their name.

Additional Required Documents for Teens

If you are a teen applying for a learner permit or intermediate license, you will also need:

Certificate of Compulsory School Attendance (Form SF-1010): This form must be signed by your school principal or guidance counselor and is only valid for 30 days from the date it is signed.
A Parent, Legal Guardian, or Licensed Stepparent: This person must accompany you to sign the application and assume financial responsibility.

Final Checklist Before You Go

[ ] Appointment: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online.
[ ] ONE proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence (with name change documents if needed).
[ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
[ ] TWO proofs of Tennessee Residency from different sources.
[ ] For teens, the valid SF-1010 School Form.
[ ] For teens, a Parent or Guardian.
[ ] Payment for the required fees (check, money order, or credit/debit card).

A few minutes of preparation gathering these documents will save you the major headache of a second trip to the Driver Services Center.