Bring originals or certified copies — never photocopies. The DMV needs proof of your full legal name and date of birth, your Social Security Number, and your Nevada address. A Real ID adds federal standards so the card works for boarding aircraft and entering federal buildings.
Proof of name and date of birth (one of):
- State-issued birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
- Nevada Department of Corrections ID card (not valid for a Real ID)
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240)
- Another state's license, permit or ID with a DHS-approved Real ID marking (not one marked "limited term")
- Certificate of Naturalization (N-550) or Certificate of Citizenship (N-560)
- Permanent Resident Card (I-551), or a valid foreign passport with an I-94 stamped "Processed for I-551"
NOT accepted as proof of name and age:
- Hospital-issued birth certificate
- Driver license or ID card from other U.S. states, U.S. territories or foreign countries
- Foreign birth certificate
- Border Crossing Card
- Consular Identification Card
Know the rule
If your name differs from your documents, bring legal proof of the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree (it must reference the name change), spouse's death certificate, adoption record or court order.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
Cards issued on limited-term documents — such as an Employment Authorization Card (I-766) or a foreign passport with a U.S. visa and I-94 — are marked "Limited Term." An expired I-94 needs a Notice of Action (I-797) showing an approved extension.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Proof of Social Security Number (one of):
- Social Security Card
- W-2 (with full SSN)
- IRS Form 1099
- Paystub with your full legal name — handwritten paystubs are not acceptable
Know the rule
SSN documents must be originals showing the complete number. Alternative documents need supervisory approval and are never allowed for a Real ID card.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Real ID
A license or ID card that meets federal identification standards for boarding aircraft and entering federal buildings. It is marked with a gold Nevada outline and a star cutout.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Standard card
A license or ID card that does not meet federal identification standards. It is marked "NOT FOR REAL ID PURPOSES." Nevadans may choose either type.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Proof of Nevada residential address needed (originals or certified copies showing your address)
Handbook p. 11 ↗Examples of residency documents (any two):
- Lease or rent receipt for a residence
- Public utility record for a service address
- Bank or credit card statement, or an employment check stub
- Nevada school enrollment record, or a student ID showing your address
- Hotel, motel, RV park or campground record showing at least 30 consecutive days in Nevada
- Voter registration card issued by a county clerk or registrar
- Insurance card, binder or bill; deed of trust or current mortgage document
Know the rule
For an applicant under 18, a parent or guardian can prove residence with any two listed documents, or by signing a DMV-approved form verifying the minor lives at the same address.
Handbook p. 11 ↗Put it into practice
Maria, 17, wants a Real ID. She brings her U.S. passport and Social Security card. Because the bills are in her mother's name, her mother signs the DMV-approved form verifying Maria lives at the same address.