Before you head to the DMV to apply for a REAL ID, make sure you know what documents to bring and how much you can expect to pay.
What do you need?
To get a REAL ID, you will need proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, proof of Social Security number and two proofs of state residency. Examples of these documents are listed below.
Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence
- U.S. birth certificate or equivalent with a raised and/or color seal
- Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
Proof of Social Security number
The applicant must provide their Social Security number. If it is not known, one of the following approved documents is acceptable.
- Social Security card
- W-2
- 1099
- Payroll check stub
Two proofs of state residency
These documents must show the applicant’s name and physical address. Applicants must present two documents dated within the last four months.
- Home utility bill
- Current state vehicle registration or certificate of title
- Current voter registration card
- IRS tax return
- Bank statement
- Payroll check stub
Name change
If there has been a name change from the proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence presented, a certified legal document supporting the name change must be presented. Examples are as follows:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order
For more information and a complete list of acceptable documents, visit REAL ID.
What will it cost?
In Tennessee, if you renew your standard Class D drivers license and switch to a REAL ID license at that time, the cost is the standard $28 renewal fee, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website.
To renew any time other than the expiration of the eight-year term of the license will cost $8 if it is a first replacement license, or $12 if it is a second or subsequent license change or duplicate.
After that, the standard renewal of $28 will apply. For more information or for fees on other types of licenses, including commercial and motorcycle, and non-license identifications, go online to REAL ID Cost.