The Essential Virginia REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to the DMV

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, wasted trip to a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Customer Service Center is arriving without the proper documentation. When applying for a driver's license or learner's 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 small star in the upper-right corner) 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 DMV 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 are not accepted. You will need to bring documents that prove the following four things.

1. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence (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 Full 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 Virginia Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

You must provide two different documents from two different sources that prove you live at a physical address in Virginia. P.O. boxes are not an acceptable address. Both documents must show your name and your current VA 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.
• Pay stub.
• Virginia 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 your application can show their two proofs of residency and certify that you live with them.

Final Checklist Before You Go to the DMV

• [ ] DMV Appointment: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online.
• [ ] Completed Application: Fill out the driver's license application form (DL 1P) in advance.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity and Legal Presence (with name change documents if needed).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
• [ ] TWO proofs of Virginia Residency from different sources.
• [ ] For a teen permit, a Parent or Legal Guardian must be present to sign the application.
• [ ] Payment for the required fees (check, money order, or credit/debit card).

To be absolutely certain, the Virginia DMV website has an interactive Document Guide that will generate a personalized list for your specific situation. It is highly recommended that you use this tool before you leave home.