New Jersey's Six Points of Identification System

New Jersey uses a points-based system to verify your identity when you explore for a driver's license or state ID card. You need to bring documents that add up to at least 6 points. The points you earn depend on which documents you bring — some are worth more than others because they are harder to forge or obtain.

This system exists because the state wants to confirm you are who you say you are before issuing a license. It also helps prevent identity fraud and duplicate licenses. Understanding which documents count and how many points each one is worth saves you a trip back to the Motor Vehicle Commission office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring documents totaling at least 6 points; no single document can be worth more than 6 points on its own.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card is worth 6 points by itself and satisfies the requirement alone.
  • A birth certificate plus one photo ID (like a school ID or work badge) typically gets you to 6 points.
  • Documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.
  • The Motor Vehicle Commission publishes the full points list on its website; bring more documents than you think you need to avoid delays.

Documents Worth 6 Points

A U.S. passport or U.S. passport card is the only document that stands alone. Either one is worth 6 points and satisfies the entire requirement by itself. You do not need to bring anything else if you have a valid passport.

A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card from another state also counts as 6 points. This includes licenses from any U.S. state or territory that meets federal REAL ID standards. If you hold a current license from another state, bring it with you.

Documents Worth 4 Points

A U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy) is worth 4 points. This is one of the most common documents people bring. You will need one additional document worth at least 2 points to reach 6.

A Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship is also worth 4 points. These are issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and prove your citizenship status.

A valid foreign passport counts as 4 points. It must be current and unaltered. Expired foreign passports do not count.

Documents Worth 2 Points

A school ID (current or expired within the last year) is worth 2 points. It must have your photo and be issued by an accredited school, college, or university.

A work ID badge or employee ID with your photo is worth 2 points. It must be current and issued by your employer or a government agency.

A military ID (current or expired within the last year) is worth 2 points. This includes active duty, reserve, National Guard, or veteran military ID cards.

A government-issued photo ID from another country is worth 2 points. Examples include a foreign driver's license or national ID card. It must be current and unaltered.

Documents Worth 1 Point

A Social Security card (original or certified copy) is worth 1 point. A photocopy does not count.

A marriage license, civil union certificate, or divorce decree is worth 1 point. These must be originals or certified copies issued by the vital records office in the state or country where the event occurred.

A property tax bill or mortgage statement from the past 12 months is worth 1 point. It must show your name and current New Jersey address.

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone) from the past 60 days is worth 1 point. It must show your name and current address.

A bank or credit card statement from the past 12 months is worth 1 point. It must show your name and address.

What Does Not Count

Photocopies, faxes, and digital images (including photos on your phone) are not accepted. You must bring originals or certified copies. A certified copy is a document stamped and signed by the issuing office as a true copy of the original.

Expired documents may count depending on the type. A school ID or military ID can be expired by up to one year. A passport or REAL ID license must be current. When in doubt, bring the document anyway — the Motor Vehicle Commission staff will tell you whether it counts.

Documents that have been altered, damaged, or are difficult to read may be rejected. If a document is worn or faded, bring a certified replacement if you have one.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

Gather documents that add up to at least 6 points before you go to the Motor Vehicle Commission office. Write down the point value of each document using the Motor Vehicle Commission's official points list (available on its website under "REAL ID" or "6 Points of Identification").

Bring originals or certified copies only. If you are unsure whether a document counts, bring it anyway. The staff can review it on the spot and tell you whether it meets the requirement. Bringing extra documents is better than making a second trip.

If you do not have a birth certificate, check with the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Getting a certified copy takes one to four weeks depending on the location, so order it early if you know you will need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a high school diploma or college transcript instead of a school ID?

No. A diploma or transcript does not count toward the 6 points. You need a school ID with your photo. If you no longer have your school ID, ask your school's registrar or records office whether they can issue a copy or a letter on official letterhead confirming your enrollment and including your photo.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate is not accepted as a 4-point document. However, a Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization from USCIS counts as 4 points. If you were born outside the U.S. and are a U.S. citizen, bring your citizenship certificate instead.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a passport?

No. A passport is worth 6 points by itself, so you do not need any other documents. However, you will need to provide your Social Security number at the Motor Vehicle Commission office, so bring your card or know your number.

Can I use a lease or rental agreement as proof of address?

A lease or rental agreement does not count toward the 6 points. For proof of address, bring a utility bill, property tax bill, mortgage statement, or bank statement from the past 12 months (or 60 days for utilities). These are worth 1 point each.

What happens if my documents do not add up to 6 points?

The Motor Vehicle Commission will not issue your license or ID card. You will need to obtain additional documents and return. Plan ahead by ordering certified copies of documents like your birth certificate or marriage license before your appointment, since these can take weeks to arrive.