Applying for a Texas REAL ID can be a straightforward process if you have all your documents in order. With the deadline to have a REAL ID or another form of identification approaching for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities, understanding the requirements is more critical than ever. Here are five key documents you need to prepare for your Texas REAL ID application:
U.S. Birth Certificate, Passport or Valid Permanent Resident Card
The first document you’ll need is proof of identity and lawful status. Here’s what is acceptable:
- U.S. Birth Certificate: This should be an original or certified copy from the vital records office showing your full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
- Valid U.S. Passport: You can use a valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card.
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): For non-citizens, a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card.
These documents must show your current legal name, date of birth, and must not be laminated.
Proof of Social Security Number
A REAL ID requires proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable documents include:
- Social Security Card: It must be an original or copy, showing your current name.
- W-2 Form: A recent W-2 form that contains your SSN.
- Paystub: Ensure the paystub has your full SSN printed on it.
✅ Note: Bring original documents; photocopies are not accepted.
Proof of Texas Residency
You must prove your Texas residency with at least two documents:
- Utility Bill: Water, electricity, gas, or cable with your name and address.
- Mortgage Statement or Property Tax: Documentation showing ownership or lease of your residence.
- Current Lease: Your current lease agreement with your name and address.
- Bank Statement: A bank statement or credit card statement showing your name and address.
| Document Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Utility Bill | Electricity, Gas, Water, Cable |
| Mortgage Statement | Home Mortgage, Property Tax Records |
| Lease Agreement | Current Lease |
| Bank Statement | Checking, Savings, or Credit Card |
💡 Note: Both documents must display your name and current Texas address.
Proof of Name Change (If Applicable)
If your current legal name differs from the one on your identity proof, you’ll need to provide:
- Marriage Certificate: A certified copy for any name change due to marriage.
- Divorce Decree: Showing your name change back to your birth name or another.
- Court Order: For any legal name change process.
These documents are essential to connect your identity to your new name, ensuring the integrity of your application.
Document for Name Change History (If Applicable)
In cases where multiple name changes have occurred, you might be asked for:
- Name Change Documents: All legal name change records showing the progression of names from your identity document to your current legal name.
Ensuring you have these documents ready will streamline your application process.
Securing your Texas REAL ID requires careful preparation, but with these five key documents, you're well on your way to a successful application. Remember to bring originals or certified copies as photocopies are not acceptable. Also, keep in mind that the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is strict about document verification, so take your time to gather everything needed. In summary:
- Proof of identity and lawful status.
- Proof of your Social Security number.
- Evidence of Texas residency.
- Any required name change documents.
- Historical documents for name changes.
In the end, these documents will not only help you obtain your REAL ID but also ensure that you meet the federal requirements for identification, keeping you compliant for travel and entry into federal facilities.
Can I use a foreign birth certificate for my Texas REAL ID?
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Foreign birth certificates are not accepted for proving identity and lawful status. You’ll need a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or a valid Permanent Resident Card.
What if my name is different on my identity document?
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If your name has changed, provide all relevant name change documents like marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders showing the progression from your identity document to your current legal name.
Is a PO Box acceptable as proof of Texas residency?
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No, a PO Box cannot be used as proof of Texas residency. Residency documents must show a physical address.
Can I apply for a Texas REAL ID online?
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Currently, you must apply for a Texas REAL ID in person at a DPS office; online applications are not accepted for new IDs.
