The Essential Utah REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to the DLD

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, wasted trip to a Utah Driver License Division (DLD) office is arriving without the proper documentation. When applying for a driver 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 DLD 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 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 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 Utah Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

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

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

• Utility bill or hook-up order (dated within the last 60 days).
• Financial documents like a bank statement, credit card bill, or mortgage statement (dated within the last 60 days).
• Pay stub (dated within 60 days).
• Utah 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, your parent or legal guardian who signs the application must also provide their two proofs of residency.

Final Checklist Before You Go to the DLD

• [ ] DLD Appointment: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online.
• [ ] Completed Application: Fill out the driver license application form in advance.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity (with name change documents if needed).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
• [ ] TWO proofs of Utah Residency from different sources.
• [ ] For a teen permit, a Parent or Legal Guardian must be present to sign the financial responsibility section of the application.
• [ ] 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 License Division office.