Rhode Island Proof of Residency for Real ID: An In-depth Overview Rhode Island's Proof of Residency for Real ID refers to the documentation required by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to establish an individual's residency within the state. The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, setting stricter standards for identification documents required to access certain federal facilities and board domestic flights. To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver's license or identification card in Rhode Island, residents must provide specific documents that confirm their residential address within the state. The DMV accepts various forms of proof of residency, which may include: 1. Utility Bill: An original or current utility bill that displays the individual's name and residential address. Accepted documents include gas, water, electricity, cable, or telephone bills. 2. Bank Statement: An original or printed bank statement issued within the last 90 days that shows the person's name and home address. It should be an official document, preferably bearing a bank seal or logo. 3. Pay Stub: A recent pay stub or earnings statement issued by an employer or government agency that reflects the individual's name and address. 4. Lease or Rental Agreement: A valid, signed lease or rental agreement that displays the individual's name, residential address, and the term of occupancy. 5. School Enrollment Form: A school enrollment form from a Rhode Island-based educational institution, which includes the individual's name and residential address. 6. Vehicle Registration: A current vehicle registration card issued by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles that confirms the individual's name and residential address. 7. Jurisdiction-issued Document: Other government-issued documents such as a property tax bill, voter registration card, or a letter from a government agency that confirms the individual's address. It is essential to note that these documents should be original or certified copies, as photocopies are generally not accepted. Additionally, each document must be valid and not expired. By providing the necessary residency documents, Rhode Island residents can ensure compliance with the Real ID Act and obtain a Real ID-compliant driver's license or identification card. This identification will be required for accessing federal facilities or boarding domestic flights after the enforcement deadline determined by the Department of Homeland Security. Ensuring one's residency is adequately proven for a Real ID is crucial to meet the federal identification standards and legal requirements. Understanding the types of documents accepted by the Rhode Island DMV for Proof of Residency is essential to ensure a smooth process when applying for a Real ID-compliant identification card or driver's license.