What specific documents are on the California DMV’s full REAL ID acceptable residency list?
Executive summary
The California DMV requires two different residency documents that show the applicant’s full name and the same California physical address (a PO Box has special rules); acceptable documents are drawn from a defined DMV list that includes common proofs such as utility bills, rental or mortgage documents, bank statements, and various government or institutional letters (see DMV checklist and document list) [1] [2] [3]. Applicants must present originals or printed certified copies and the DMV’s downloadable “List of Docs – REAL ID” or the DL 1010E form summarizes the specific options and rules [3] [4].
1. TWO proofs of California residency — the basic rule
To receive a REAL ID the DMV requires two different documents proving California residency that include the first and last name and the same physical address that will be printed on the license or ID; a PO Box can be used only as a mailing address if one residency document also shows the physical address [1] [4]. The DMV emphasizes originals or certified copies for identity and social security documents and accepts printed residency documents (electronic files are generally not allowed) as part of the two‑document residency requirement [4] [5].
2. Common, explicitly listed residency documents
The DMV’s published lists and checklist identify commonly accepted documents such as utility bills, bank or credit card statements, mortgage bills, rental or lease agreements, and vehicle registration or certificate of title as valid proofs of California residency [6] [7] [5]. Government‑issued documents—like a document issued by a U.S. government agency, voter registration confirmation, or correspondence from a county elections office—are also listed as acceptable residency evidence on DMV materials [8] [5].
3. Institutional and special‑purpose documents that qualify
The DMV accepts medical documents, school documents (including proof of payment of resident tuition at California public higher‑education institutions), and employment documents that show a California address [5]. Letters on official letterhead from homeless shelters, shelters for abused women, non‑profit entities, faith‑based organizations, employers or government agencies attesting that the applicant resides in California are included as alternative residency proofs for people with nonstandard housing situations [8].
4. Identity / name and relationship rules that affect residency documents
Residency documents must display the same first and last name that will appear on the REAL ID; if an applicant’s name has changed, additional certified name‑change documents are required and the DMV’s DL1010E form explains when multiple name‑change records are needed [4] [3]. The DMV also allows use of a relative’s residency document (parent, child, spouse/domestic partner) only when combined with a supporting document that proves the relationship (for example a birth or marriage certificate) so the address can be attributed to the applicant [4].
5. Practical notes, caveats and where to find the definitive list
DMV web pages and the downloadable “List of Docs – REAL ID” PDF are the authoritative sources; the DMV’s interactive REAL ID checklist and the DL1010E form provide the complete enumerated options and explanatory notes, and applicants are advised to consult these before visiting a field office [3] [2] [4]. The DMV updates forms and acceptable documents over time, so while common items (utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement, vehicle registration, school or medical letters, government correspondence, shelter or employer letters) are repeatedly listed across DMV materials, the exact phrasing and any new acceptable items are best confirmed on the DMV’s official PDF checklist and application pages [2] [3].