The Essential Texas REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to the DPS

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, wasted trip to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Office is arriving without the proper documentation. When applying for a driver's license or learner license, 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.

This checklist will ensure you arrive at your DPS 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 four 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:

Original or certified copy of a U.S. Birth Certificate.
Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570 or N-578).
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 critical point. 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, 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." [11]

2. Proof of Identity (Primary or Secondary IDs)

Your proof of citizenship document (like a passport) can also serve as your proof of identity. If not, you will need to provide other documents. The DPS has a list of primary, secondary, and supporting identification documents. You will need either one primary ID, two secondary IDs, or one secondary ID plus two supporting IDs. A common combination is a birth certificate and your Social Security card.

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.
SSA-1099 Form.
Pay stub that includes your full name and full SSN.

4. Proof of Texas Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

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

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

Current utility bill (electric, water, gas, etc.) dated within 90 days of the application date.
Current mortgage statement or lease agreement.
Texas high school, college, or university report card or transcript for the current school year.
Valid, unexpired Texas voter registration card.
Current automobile insurance policy or statement.
Texas motor vehicle registration or title.
Bank or credit card statement dated within 90 days.

Additional Required Documents for Teens

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

Driver Education Certificate (DE-964). [19]
Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form. [19]
A parent or legal guardian must be present. [19]

Final Checklist Before You Go

[ ] DPS Appointment: An appointment is mandatory. Schedule online. [11]
[ ] Completed Application (DL-14A). [12]
[ ] ONE proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence (with name change documents if needed).
[ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
[ ] TWO proofs of Texas Residency from different sources.
[ ] Proof of Texas Vehicle Registration and Insurance for each vehicle you own. [11] (If you don't own a vehicle, you can sign a statement at the office).
[ ] Payment for the required fees.

To be absolutely sure, the DPS offers an excellent REAL ID Document Check tool on their website. Use it before you leave home to create a personalized list based on your specific situation.