Documents Required to Get NJMVC Real ID – 2+1+6 Points System

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) issues Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards in accordance with federal regulations. To obtain a Real ID, applicants must provide documentation that verifies their identity, Social Security number, and New Jersey residency. The NJMVC follows a "2+1+6 Points System" to determine eligibility. This system ensures applicants submit sufficient proof without unnecessary complications.

Understanding the 2+1+6 Points System

The NJMVC requires applicants to present documents in three categories:

1. Proof of Identity (2 Documents) – At least one must be a primary document. 

2. Proof of Social Security Number (1 Document) 

3. Proof of New Jersey Residency (6 Points Total)

Each document carries a specific point value, and applicants must meet the minimum requirement in each category.

1. Proof of Identity (2 Documents)

Applicants must provide two documents, with at least one being a primary document.

Primary Documents (1 Required, 4 Points Each) - U.S. birth certificate or certified copy - Valid U.S. passport or passport card - Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - Foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94 approval - Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

Secondary Documents (1 Additional, 1-3 Points Each) - Driver’s license or ID from another U.S. state (3 points) - NJMVC-issued permit or temporary license (2 points) - Marriage certificate or divorce decree (2 points) - School or college ID with transcript (1 point) - Vehicle title or registration (1 point)

Note: If using a birth certificate, it must be an original or certified copy with a raised seal. Photocopies are not accepted.

2. Proof of Social Security Number (1 Document Required)

Applicants must provide one of the following documents to verify their SSN: - Social Security card (original or certified copy) - W-2 form (must display full SSN) - Pay stub with full SSN - SSA-1099 or non-SSA-1099 tax form - Medicare or Medicaid card showing SSN

If you do not have an SSN, you must present a denial letter from the Social Security Administration or documentation proving ineligibility.

3. Proof of New Jersey Residency (6 Points Total)

Applicants must provide documents totaling 6 points to verify residency. Each document has a specific point value:

4-Point Documents (Maximum One Allowed) - New Jersey driver’s license, permit, or ID card (current or expired less than three years) - New Jersey vehicle registration or title - Mortgage statement or lease agreement

3-Point Documents - Utility bill (electric, gas, water, cable, internet, or landline phone) - Bank statement or credit card statement - Property tax bill or deed

1-Point Documents - Insurance policy (auto, health, or homeowner’s) - Government-issued mail (NJ state or federal) - School transcript or report card (for minors)

Important Notes: - Documents must display the applicant’s name and current NJ address. - P.O. boxes are not accepted as proof of residency unless accompanied by a street address. - Documents must be dated within the past 90 days (unless specified otherwise).

Additional Requirements for Name Changes

If your current name differs from the name on your identity documents, you must provide legal proof of the name change, such as: - Marriage certificate - Divorce decree - Court-ordered name change document - Adoption papers

Application Process for NJMVC Real ID

1. Gather Required Documents – Ensure you have the necessary proofs for identity, SSN, and residency. 

2. Complete the Application – Fill out the NJMVC’s Standard Identification Statement (Form BA-208). 

3. Visit an NJMVC Licensing Center – Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended for faster service. 

4. Pay the Required Fee – Standard renewal fees apply ($24 for a license, $11 for a non-driver ID). 

5. Receive a Temporary License/ID – Your permanent Real ID will arrive by mail in 2-3 weeks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Expired Documents – Ensure all documents are current and valid. -Incomplete Residency Proof – Double-check that residency documents total at least 6 points. Unverified SSN – A Social Security card is the most straightforward proof. Name Mismatches – Bring legal documentation if your name has changed.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Real ID from the NJMVC requires careful preparation of documents under the 2+1+6 points system. By gathering the correct proofs of identity, Social Security number, and residency, applicants can ensure a smooth process. Always verify document requirements on the NJMVC website before visiting a licensing center to avoid delays.